April 8, 2021 Vol. 4 No. 14
O n l i n e w e e k l y a t w w w. g r a i n v a l l e y n e w s . c o m
Dismal voter turnout for April election; MCC and CJCFPD measures pass With just 10.5% of County voters casting a ballot, Grain Valley voters approved a measure to attach to the Junior College District of Metropolitan Kansas City, Missouri. Residents within the school district boundaries will now be eligible for in-district tuition rates at Metropolitan Community Colleges. The ballot measure won with 57.17% of the vote. Grain Valley residents may take advantage of in-district tuition rates beginning in the summer 2021 semester. Registration for summer courses begins Monday, April 12th. A new tuition structure for Metropolitan Community College will take effect with the Fall 2021 semester. Tuition will increase from $107 to $116 per credit hour for in-district students, but MCC will eliminate most course fees currently added on top of tuition. Fees to be eliminated include lab fees, various course and program fees, the general fee of $10 per semester, distance education fee of $15 per credit hour for internet classes, student activity fee of $2 per credit hour, and technology fee of $5 per credit hour. MCC states the move to remove these fees is meant to increase transparency regarding the true cost of courses for students, and that the removal of most fees means that many
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students will pay no more than they do now. The two nursing programs offered by MCC will see a reduction in costs to students of nearly $2,500. The estimated cost to complete the LPN certificate will be approximately $735 less once the elimination of fees takes effect. The utility lineman program is estimated to be $2,000 less to complete the A.A.S. degree. Students in the A.A.S. degree programs in automotive technology (mechanical), HVAC and surgical technology will also become more affordable according to MCC. Voters served by the Central Jackson County Fire Protection District (CJCFPD) gave resounding support for two questions placed on the ballot asking voters for their support in adding a second fire station on the north side of Grain Valley. Question 1 was approved with 80.96% of the vote; Question 2 received 68.11% of the vote. In Ward 1, current alderman Tom Cleaver defeated Dale Arnold with 54.95% of the vote. In Ward 2, incumbent Nancy Totton lost her seat to challenger Darren Mills, who received 63.64% of the vote. In Ward 3, incumbent Shea Bass held his seat, defeating first-time candidate Kristen Rising. Bass received 58.33% of the vote.
R.A.D. Training for women returns April 20th The Grain Valley Police Department is once again offering its free R.A.D. selfdefense training for women program. The comprehensive course for women, sponsored by Jackson County COMBAT and Grain Valley Chiropractic, will be held over four evenings starting April 20th. The Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) System is a program of realistic, selfdefense tactics, concepts, and techniques. It is a comprehensive course
that begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction, and avoidance, before progressing to basic hands-on defense training. Classes will be held from 5:30pm— 8:30pm on April 20th, April 22nd, April 27th and April 29th at First Baptist Church Grain Valley. The course is limited to 20 registrants. To register, contact Officer Iiams at 816-847-5000 x1173 or 816-847-6250.
Missouri Trivia by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society During their voyage down the Mississippi River, Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet, were the first Europeans to set foot on land that would later become Missouri. Around 1700, the first white settlement in Missouri, Ste. Genevieve,
was established by Canadian settlers and Jesuit Missionaries. Known as the Mission of St. Francis Xavier, they were named for Francis Xavier, a Spanish Jesuit and one of the most prolific missionaries in the history of the Catholic Church. He was made a saint on March 12, 1622.
In This Edition: Looking Back: How do streets get their names?
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Business: April Partnership events
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State News: Lawmakers press DSS for change after allegations
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Your Health: Spring into health
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Sports: Lady Eagles churn out gritty win against Panthers
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Cover Photo: Left: Senior Valerie Holcomb attempts to gain control of the ball. Photo credit: Valley News staff. Story on page 10.
G R A I N VA L L E Y N E W S Online weekly at www.grainvalleynews.com
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Police Blotter The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of March 24-30, 2021. March 24, 2021 500 Block of Woodbury 700 Block of Baytree Cir 700 Block of Main 400 Block of Eagles PKWY 700 Block of Main 700 Block of Main 1200 Block of Sawgrass 600 Block of S Broadway 800 Block of LeAnn DR 1200 Block of Dean DR 1300 Block of RD Mize 700 Block of Main 1200 Block of SW Windcrest CT March 25, 2021 600 Block of Scenic 400 Block of Woodbury DR 300 Block of Nelson 700 Block of Main Sawgrass & Long 500 Block of Magnolia Circle 700 Block of Main 700 Block of Main 500 Block of Woodbury
March 26, 2021 Main and 40 HWY 700 Block of Main 300 Block of Eagles 1400 Block of Hilltop Ln 800 Block of San Kar I 70 East of Main EB I 70
Agency Assist- BSPD Stealing Citizen Contact Suspicious Person Citizen Contact VIN Verification Stealing Agency Assist-OGPD Parking Complaints Physical Disturbance Stolen Auto VIN Verification Area Check
Verbal Disturbance Burglary Parking Complaints Agency AssistChildren's Division Area Check Disturbance Citizen Contact Welfare Check Agency Assist-US Marshalls
Meadow & Long 500 Block of Main 700 Block of Main
Motor Vehicle Accident Welfare Check Noise Complaint Verbal Disturbance Possible Robbery Welfare Check Agency Assist-Missouri State HP Suspicious Vehicle Citizen Contact Citizen Contact
March 27, 2021 700 Block of Persimmon 700 Block of RD Mize 700 Block of Main 1500 Block of Broadway 400 Block of Joseph LN 800 Block of San Kar Dean & Joseph
Suspicious Person Verbal Disturbance Property Damage Alarm Noise Complaint C&I Driver Noise Complaint
500 Block of Lakeview 300 Block of Woodbury 900 Block of NW Maplewood CT 600 Block of Par 100 Block of SW Rock Creek LN 700 Block of Main March 28, 2021 700 Block of Main Hedgewood & Dogwood WB I 70 800 Block of Highland
Area Check Stand By Disturbance Parking Complaints Trespassing Citizen Contact
600 Block of Yennie 400 Block SW Rock Creek 1000 Block of NW Dogwood 900 Block of Persimmon CT 100 Block of NE McQuerry RD
Citizen Contact Area Check Pedestrian on Roadway Agency AssistOak Grove PD Alarm Citizen Contact Physical Disturbance Suspicious Vehicle Alarm
March 29, 2021 600 Block of Par 700 Block of Main 700 Block of Main 2200 Block of Hedgewood 1300 Block of Baytree 700 Block of Main 1200 Block of Eagles Pkwy 100 Block of Main 800 Block of NW Green 6800 Block of Old Stoney Point Creekridge & Meadowood 800 Block of Mill Creek CT 200 Block of NW Parker 900 Block of SW Ryan RD 100 Block of Eagles PKWY
Parking Complaints Citizen Contact Recovered Property Suspicious Vehicle Alarm Citizen Contact Trespassing Physical Disturbance Suspicious Person Alarm Stealing Citizen Contact Motor Vehicle Accident Motor Vehicle Accident Alarm
March 30, 2021 400 Block of Jefferson 400 Block of Laura LN 700 Block of Main 900 Block of Persimmon 31000 Block of Pink Hill 100 Block of NE Jensen Gregg & Broadway
Reserve ads for City-Wide Garage Sale Directory While not an official City event, the City-Wide Garage Sale is one of the most talked about spring events in Grain Valley. Held annually on the third Saturday in May, this year’s sales will be held Saturday, May 15th Valley News will once again provide a Garage Sale Directory for residents who
would like to advertise their sale. Listings are only $5 and can be reserved through May 10th at www.grainvalleynews.com. The directory will be printed in the May 13th online edition of Valley News.
Alarm 911 Hang Up Agency AssistChildren's Division Trespassing Suspicious Person Area Check Area Check
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Looking Back
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Looking Back: How do streets get their names? by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society Over the course of two or three years I have written several articles about streets and roads in and around Grain Valley and how they got their names. Early streets and roads were usually named for the families that lived along them. Some were named for geographical locations while others were named for their location, like Front Street which ran in front of the railroad station. In more recent years, I wonder? I do know that in the newer subdivisions, the names are chosen by the developer. Such is the case with the names in Greystone, north of town off Buckner Tarsney Road. The Greystone subdivision was developed by Roger Bennett and his sons. Roger married Margarette Elizabeth “Beth” Evans. Beth was the youngest daughter of William D. “Bill” and Jean Evans, and the God daughter of my parents, Charlie and Mildred Napier. As I drive through the subdivision, the names become obvious to me. They are the four nieces of Roger and Beth. Stephanie’s daughters, Mary Court and Erin Court and Tom’s daughters, Amanda Jean
Way and Jaclyn Drive. Hannah Way, Kim Court and Katie Court are named for great-grandchildren. When the Evans Family came to Grain Valley in 1949 there were only three members. Stephanie Sue, the new baby born on July 5, 1949; Jean, the new mother; and Bill, the father. They added son, Thomas Bowers Evans in 1952 and Beth in 1954. Bill was a recent graduate of Missouri Valley College, which he attended after time out as a U. S. Marine during World War II. He came to Grain Valley to teach history and coach football, boys’ and girls’ basketball, and boys’ and girls’ track. That’s right, he was the coach, the one and only coach at Grain Valley High School. Today, those same 5 sports have 5 head coaches and 21 assistants! And I should mention that he drove the school bus on the morning route and to most of the athletic events held out of town. The Evans family became part of the Grain Valley community for many years. Over the next fifteen years they lived in four different homes. They rented an
Coach Evans talks with his team. Photo courtesy Grain Valley Historical Society.
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apartment from Wayne and Orvella Minter, who owned one of the grocery stores in town. Next they moved to a home owned, at the time, by Keith and Elouise Shrout on the corner of R. D. Mize and Tyre Roads. In 1956 they moved into town and lived on Smith Street in the old Perkins house. Finally, they bought a home from F. L. and Grace Stillions at the corner of Yennie and Thieme streets. Before leaving Grain Valley in 1964, they left their mark. They were active in the Methodist Church and Bill often filled the pulpit when the minister was absent. Jean was active in WSCS (Women’s Society of Christian Service) and the PTA. Bill was a founding member of the Methodist Men and the Grain Valley Lion’s Club. Mr. Evans eventually became the high school principal and remained with the school until 1957. He moved on to become a guidance counselor, and later principal at Westport, Southwest, and Van Horn in the Kansas City School District. He retired in the early 1990s as assistant director of the Missouri State
Grain Valley teacher, coach, and principal Mr. William D. Evans. Photo courtesy Grain Valley Historical Society. High School Activities Association in Columbia, MO. His granddaughter and greatgrandchildren will forever live on in the streets of Grain Valley!
Business
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How the pandemic has changed rush hour (BPT) - It is an indisputable fact that the COVID-19 pandemic changed a lot about Americans' daily lives, including relationships with vehicles. While Hankook Tire's latest Gauge Index found that 60% of Americans are driving every day, as opposed to only 19% in April 2020, many habits behind the wheel have shifted in light of the pandemic, too. 1) Americans are spending less money at the gas pump. The COVID-19 pandemic quickly closed many regular driving destinations, including office buildings, schools, restaurants, and retail, which in turn gave drivers fewer places to go. While the amount of driving expected over the next few months is still uncertain, the positive impact on wallets is still there: 70% of Americans say that they have spent less money on gas since the start of the pandemic. And when they do need to fill up the tank, drivers are strategic about it. Since the pandemic, over three-fourths (77%) make a plan to get gas while running errands to limit their time out of the house. 2) There are designated errand runs and designated runners. Americans are also strategic with how and when they leave the house for essentials. Many are not comfortable making a quick run to the store to pick up something they forgot for dinner. Nearly two-thirds (64%) say they now save all their errands for one day or do curbside orders to limit potential exposure to the virus. Another half (53%) have a designated errand runner, so only one person must leave the house. 3) Rush hour is less rushed. With more Americans continuing to work from home and students taking classes online, rush hour is proving less
intense. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of drivers recognize that normal traffic patterns have shifted since the start of 2020. Another 65% confirm there is less traffic on their regular routes - though that largely depends on where you live. 4) Comfort levels are shifting gears. As a result of the pandemic, 75% of Americans are not comfortable using public transportation. However, confidence behind the wheel is down, too - just over a third (36%) say they are less confident driving since the start of the pandemic, perhaps because they are not doing so as often. Interestingly enough, men are almost twice as likely to say they are less confident behind the wheel as women ... 44% vs. 28%. Additionally, people are careful about who they drive with. Two-thirds (66%) are not comfortable getting into a car that belongs to someone outside their household. Another two-thirds (63%) are not comfortable having passengers from outside their household in their own vehicle. 5) Face masks are the new sunglasses. 2020 has not just changed when and where people use their cars, it is also changing what they keep in them. Most Americans (81%) keep a face mask in their car, the Gauge found. More than half (55%) have a designated spot for it in their vehicles - be it in the glove compartment, center console, rearview mirror, or the gear shift. And 72% say they have hand sanitizer in their vehicle, too. Which of these trends will stick around and which are more temporary reactions to a tumultuous year remains to be seen. However, one thing is for certain: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted how Americans view, use, and depend on their vehicles.
Register for April 14th blood drive The Community Blood Center (CBC) and the Grain Valley Partnership will conduct a blood drive on Wednesday, April 14th from Noon—4:00pm at the Grain Valley Community Center, 713 Main ST. In the greater Kansas City area, one in three people will need blood at some point in their life and nearly one in seven hospital admissions requires a blood transfusion. This means, nearly 600 donations are needed every day to meet hospital demand, and with a
limited shelf life, supplies must be continually replenished. Grain Valley residents can help by donating blood at the blood drive on Wednesday, April 14th from Noon— 4:00pm. The drive will be held at Grain Valley Community Center, 713 Main Street. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment by visiting www.safealifenow.org/group and using group code EH27. For additional details, contact Dawn Eblen at 816-352-2342.
April Partnership Events For more information on the following Grain Valley Partnership events, visit www.growgrainvalley.org.
State News
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Lawmakers press DSS for change after abuse allegations at unlicensed schools by Tessa Weinberg, Missouri Independent Since 2015, the Department of Social Services has been court ordered to place at least two children in unlicensed youth residential facilities — including one that is the subject of an investigation by local law enforcement and the Attorney General’s office over allegations of abuse. The foster children placed in those facilities, including the Agape Boarding School, are not there now, Jennifer Tidball, the acting director of the department, told the House Special Committee on Government Oversight on Wednesday. Over the course of a three hour hearing, lawmakers slammed the department for lack of action on years of alleged abuse. But they also delved into widespread issues throughout the department from understaffing to a fear of retaliation that has prevented staff from speaking out. Wednesday’s hearing was the fourth in a series of hearings lawmakers have held in the wake of The Kansas City Star’s investigations into Christian boarding schools that had substantiated reports of abuse, neglect and sexual abuse. The Agape Boarding School was a focus of the series. Under state law, facilities operated by religious organizations are exempt from licensure requirements — a gap
lawmakers are attempting to close with a bipartisan bill that would implement regulations like background checks and registration with the state. Search warrant information obtained by The Star found that an employee of Agape Boarding School had called law enforcement to let them know that records that would document the alleged abuse were being destroyed. From 2019 to 2020, there were 64 “preponderance of evidence” findings among both licensed and unlicensed facilities that child abuse or neglect occurred, Tidball said. In the wake of The Star’s investigations, lawmakers have held hearings on the issue, and last month Attorney General Eric Schmitt charged the owners of Circle of Hope Girls Ranch in southeast Missouri with 102 crimes. The school was also a focus of The Star’s investigations. Rep. Keri Ingle, D-Lee’s Summit, described the exemption for religious facilities as a “crater” that has carved out those facilities from oversight. “We had this situation where we have these credible allegations — so credible that we made numerous preponderance of evidence findings and law enforcement agreed — and that we just threw our hands up because of the nature of this exemption, and that this
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continued to occur,” Ingle said, later adding: “Why did we not fight harder for these kids?” The department has repeatedly said that state law allows for little oversight over unlicensed facilities — and that if a substantiated report of abuse or neglect is found, that it is then shared with local law enforcement and prosecutors. “I haven’t sat in this department for 25 years because I don’t care about kids. I do,” Tidball said, later adding, “I do share the frustration, and I truly — I did not know.” Having the ability to subpoena records and access children in unlicensed facilities were some of the measures DSS officials pointed to as potential solutions. When asked directly why the department hasn’t made lawmakers aware of issues at unlicensed facilities sooner, Tidball said it was due to a variety of factors, including not wanting to repeat how Heartland Christian Academy was handled. Tidball called the academy “the elephant in the room.” It was raided in 2001 following reports of abuse and use of corporal punishment, and more than 100 students were removed as a result. The raid gained national headlines and became the subject of a years-long lawsuit. The state eventually settled the case. “The reality is, every time that these unlicensed facilities would come up, everyone’s like, ‘Well, we don’t want another Heartland,’” Tidball said, later adding: “I think that that’s part of it, is that people were afraid to have another Heartland because it was so high profile.” What’s more, when investigating allegations of abuse and neglect at residential youth facilities, it takes more than just the department — other entities like the courts and juvenile officers are also involved. Tidball said at times staff are wary of upsetting that balance with local entities they have to work with frequently. Tidball acknowledged she could have done more to find out about issues, but in part blamed the department’s organizational structure for why reports weren’t reaching her. “Should I have dug deeper? Should I have known more about what was going on in the Children’s Division? I can take responsibility for that,” Tidball said. “But I think that part of it is you had people that were following chain of command… It wasn’t getting up to me.” While Tidball said she is always accessible to staff members and that they aren’t prohibited from speaking with state legislators, lawmakers said they have heard from case workers who fear retaliation for speaking out about issues within the department and handling of cases. “Really the only three people that we could interact with in the department, is you three right here,” Rep. J. Eggleston, R -Maysville, told Tidball. Rep. Raychel Proudie, D-Ferguson,
said in the past the Joint Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect has heard from department staff who are in “just utter and complete fear” in regards to facing retaliation. Rep. Hannah Kelly, R-Mountain Grove, pushed for the department to ensure its policies are formalized and standardized across the department, highlighting a lack of a sufficient response to hotline calls. “We can legislate all day long, but if the only basis by which I make sure a child in my district is safe is faulty, then everything we do here in this room doesn’t really matter a whole lot,” Kelly said. Lawmakers also lamented roadblocks they have faced in trying to gather information, with Ingle recounting how she requested a report from the Office of Administration that was conducted by the Office of Child Advocate, which investigates complaints against the Children’s Division and reviews allegations of abuse. When she received it, it was heavily redacted. “There’s been obstructions and roadblocks from the beginning,” Ingle said. A lack of information has made it frustrating to provide oversight, said Rep. Dottie Bailey, R-Eureka, leaving lawmakers “blinded.” When attempting to request information under a state statute that allows “government entities” to access confidential Children’s Division records, Bailey said lawmakers have been declined. “Just getting to the information takes us months. I don’t know if that’s by design, or if that’s you stalling. But here’s the thing, kids have been allegedly raped and sodomized. That keeps me awake at night,” Bailey said. “And that irritates me. So if we need to get a court order to compel you to follow the law, then we’ll do so.” Tidball said the department’s attorney plans to meet with the Missouri House counsel and Attorney General’s office tomorrow to discuss how records could be provided. Lawmakers also touched on the slow implementation of legislation that went into effect last year, where the department stands on documenting the number of children diverted after parents lose custody and the department’s struggle to attract case workers. Rep. Jered Taylor, R-Republic, and chair of the House Special Committee on Government Oversight, said the committee plans to hold a hearing next week to allow members of the public to testify. Tessa Weinberg covers education, health care and the legislature. She previously covered the Missouri statehouse for The Kansas City Star and The Columbia Missourian, where her reporting into social media use by the governor prompted an investigation by the Attorney General’s office. She most recently covered state government in Texas for The Fort Worth Star -Telegram. www.missouriindependent.com.
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Outdoors & Recreation
McCloskey joins Burr Oak Woods Nature Center as manager by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation A veteran of parks and natural resource management has joined the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) team. Sam McCloskey is the new manager for MDC’s Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. McCloskey is a Missouri native with extensive experience working in Colorado state parks. He began his new duties in March. McCloskey grew up in the St. Louis area and was a frequent visitor to the trails and exhibits at MDC’s Powder Valley Nature Center in Kirkwood. That part of his youthful outdoor adventures helped lead to an interest in conservation and how people interact with the natural environment. Supervising exhibits and programs at Burr Oak Woods give him a chance to carry those influences forward. “The nature centers that MDC manages are state of the art,” McCloskey said, “and connecting people with nature is very important.” He made natural resources an emphasis in his studies at the University of Missouri at Columbia. That helped him earn a bachelor’s degree in parks, recreation, and tourism. Then McCloskey
Answers to last week’s puzzle:
went west to join Colorado Parks and Wildlife. He held various positions with duties in management, oversight, interpretation, and education. Places like Burr Oak Woods with a nature center building and its surrounding forest, native grassland restorations, woodlands, creeks, and trails are havens for people who enjoy nature. But McCloskey also believes nature centers are great places for people who have not had previous outdoor experience to be introduced to nature and learn skills such as fishing or hunting morel mushrooms. “Our naturalists can just step outside to do programs,” McCloskey said. “They can go into a prairie or glade or visit the pond. This is an amazing cross section of Missouri habitats and the correct management practices for them.” McCloskey said he also welcomes the opportunity to strengthen connections between Burr Oak Woods and the community, from Blue Springs through the Kansas City metro area and in the region. The nature center is beginning its spring and summer programs. Hiking
Sam McCloskey has joined Burr Oak Woods Nature Center as manager. Photo credit: MDC trails are open. COVID-19 precautions such as physical distancing and face masks are being observed. For more information about Burr Oak Woods, visit https://mdc.mo.gov/ burroakwoods. To learn more about
programs at the nature center, visit https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZXw.
Your Health
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Spring into health by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD fitness in check, springtime gives us a sense of renewed hope and another opportunity to set some goals. Spring into health with some of the tips below. Take your activity outside. The word exercise can be negative for those who think of it as a chore, something hard to accomplish. Increasing activity is a gentler term for getting in some exercise without the pressure of a set program with running shoes and weights. All you need is some comfortable clothing, a good pair of shoes and the great outdoors. Taking a walk outside can not only improve your cardio fitness, it can also improve your mood. Need a challenge? Set a step goal and increase your number each week. Try to get your steps up to 10,000 per day over time.
Spring is here! With the budding trees and warmer weather, it is a great time of year to take a look our health and do a little spring cleaning on ourselves. While some of us use the first of the year to get our nutrition and
Drink more water. Being hydrated is essential. It helps maximize physical performance, affects energy levels and brain function, may help prevent headaches, may help relieve constipation and can aid in weight loss. The common recommendation is that you drink 64 ounces per day, but this number is different for each
Spring Pea Salad with Strawberries individual based on weight, activity level and your environment. If your goal is to get more water in your diet, start gradual. Keep a water journal and increase your amount each day. Add a wedge of lemon or lime for a flavor boost. Get enough sleep. Research shows that adults need at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Sleep is essential at any age. It empowers the mind, restores the body and fortifies virtually every system in the body. Start by making sleep a priority in your schedule. Improve your sleep hygiene which includes your bedroom setting and sleep-related habits. Try to stick to the same sleep schedule every day, even on weekends. Eat more fruits and vegetables. The recommendations are to eat at least 1½ to 2 cups per day of fruit and 2 to 3 cups per day of vegetables. Simple ways to get more in are to add vegetables to sauces, blend fruits and vegetables into smoothies or add some vegetables to an omelet. Try the recipe below for a healthy dose of spring vegetables.
Ingredients: 8 cups mixed salad greens 1 cup snow peas and/or snap peas, trimmed ¾ cup sliced strawberries ½ cup shelled fresh peas ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese ¼ cup chopped fresh mint 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons champagne vinegar 1 teaspoon honey ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon ground pepper Directions: Step 1 Arrange greens, snow (or snap) peas, strawberries, peas and feta on a serving platter. Whisk mint oil, vinegar, honey, salt and pepper in a small bowl and drizzle over the salad. Nutrition facts: Serving size: 2 cups Per serving: 179 calories; protein 4.9 g; carbohdyrates 12.3 g; dietary fiber 4.7g; sugars 5.7g; fat 13g; saturated fat 3g.
Missouri reports state’s first confirmed case of South African variant The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is reporting the first identification in a Missouri resident of the COVID-19 variant, B.1.351, which was first identified in South Africa in December 2020 and began being reported in the United States in late January. The B.1.351 variant was identified in a sample from an adult living in Jackson County. To protect the privacy of the individual, no further information will be released about the patient. The variant was determined through the whole genome sequencing conducted through a commercial laboratory. The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows 374 cases have been reported to the CDC in the United States as of April 5. At least 34 states have identified cases thus far.
At this point, this variant is not known to cause more severe disease and it is not clear whether it spreads more readily than other strains. Although this strain can reduce the effectiveness of some vaccines, vaccines still provide strong protection against severe illness and death. “We continue to encourage prevention measures to be in place as we identify more positive cases of these variants,” said Dr. Randall Williams, director of DHSS. “We also continue to ask that individuals consider getting vaccinated when they are able. The vaccines that are currently available in the United States appear to be effective against these variant viruses.” Another variant of concern, B.1.1.7, also known as the UK variant, was first identified in Missouri in February 2021,
and there are currently 35 cases in the state. This variant was first reported in the U.S. at the end of December 2020. Evidence from the UK indicates that this variant spreads much more quickly through the population and, given that fact, may rapidly increase the number of hospitalizations and deaths. More studies are needed to confirm this
finding. Testing is free and available throughout the state. Visit health.mo.gov/communitytest for resources.
Sports
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Eagles win first bill of double hitter against Tigers by John Unrein Sound pitching and timely hitting adorned the Grain Valley Eagles baseball team as the Lee’s Summit Tigers came calling on April 2nd. Eagles starting hurler Joel Palecek dealt a gem on the mound to team with the clutch effort at the plate of first baseman Kaden Jeffries. Grain Valley would carry the first game of the double hitter on Good Friday against Lee’s Summit by a score of 3-2. Palecek gained command of his fastball after the first inning and paired it with an effective changeup to stymy the Tigers offense. The junior hurler for the Eagles would strike out five and only give up one earned run across six and one-third innings. Palecek received a robust round of applause from the crowd upon exiting the game in the top of the seventh inning. “I was able to hit my spot with the fastball. I thank my catcher (Blake Prewitt) for that. He provided a stable target behind the plate and called a good game,” Palecek said. “During warmups I typically struggle with my changeup. It felt good getting started and I had a feel for it today. Everything was taken care of by our team that allowed us to win the first game of this double hitter.” Jeffries showed good eye discipline at the plate for the Eagles. The junior clean up hitter would draw a walk to couple with a double and single in getting on base three times
consecutively. Jeffries would wait on both balls struck hard to center and right center field, respectively. The latter hit would yield two key runs batted in for Grain Valley in the bottom of the fifth inning. “I picked out two good pitches at the plate and got the bat on them. It feels good to win and make contact like that for my team,” Jeffries said. Grain Valley Eagles head baseball coach Brian Driskell was determined to manufacture a run with Jeffries first hit in the bottom of the fourth inning. A scoreless game witnessed Driskell call time and summon pinch runner Logan Pratt out of the dugout to take over for Jeffries at second base. The move paid dividends for the Eagles as Pratt would use his speed to make it home during the frame. The junior sprinter who has put together a solid track season thus far provides a swift option off the pine that opposing defenses cannot ignore. The Eagles were encouraged to stay hungry by their skipper between games. A speech that preceded raking and watering the infield by Grain Valley’s head coach to prevent dust from flying on a breezy spring afternoon. Driskell was encouraged by what he saw out of his squad during the first tilt of the double hitter. “Joel (Palecek) has been an excellent surprise for us this season. He has pounded the strike zone and that
First baseman Kaden Jeffries makes contact at the plate for the Eagles. Photo credit: Valley News staff
permits our defense to handle baseballs that are put in play. We have been able to scratch a couple of runs across at the plate that has fueled some wins for us at this point in the season,” Driskell said. “Depending on the day, we may or may not have some additional speed on the bench (due to their track commitment). We have three of the four by one hundred and four by two hundred sprinters on our roster. This was (Logan) Pratt’s first game that he could be at today. I gave him the heads up before the start of the fourth inning to be ready. He got stretched, scored an important run for us, and it worked out.” Driskell finished, “Jeffries had some big at bats today. That is going to be massive for him as the season
Eagles pitcher Joel Palecek Photo credit: Valley News staff
progresses for his confidence. We talk all the time about comfortable and uncomfortable situations. Both of his hits today were uncomfortable situations, and he came through for us.” Senior Riley Bown would come in during the top of the seventh inning for the save in relief of Palecek. The victory moved Grain Valley to one game above .500 baseball with a 5-4 record.
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Bosserman and Bown boost Eagles for double hitter sweep of Tigers by John Unrein Shortstop Parker Bosserman sprinted to his right deep in the hole before picking up the baseball with his glove hand. A smooth exchange would follow prior to the senior launching the ball across the diamond towards first base. Bosserman would trade force on his throw for accuracy in the hope first baseman Parker Stone would be able to pick the ball out of the dirt at first base. The calculated risk paid off for Bosserman as Stone plucked the baseball out of the dust to record the final out of the game for Grain Valley. The final sequence in the bottom of the seventh inning put the icing on the cake for the Eagles. The defensive jewel mustered by Bosserman and the strong pitching of Riley Bown would propel the Eagles to a 3-2 victory over the Lee’s Summit Tigers on April 2nd. Making the victory that much sweeter was the double hitter sweep of a Suburban Conference opponent on the diamond by Grain Valley. A success that led to an abundance of postgame handshakes in the dugout and moves the Eagles to a 6 -4 record on the young season. Bown would relieve starter Cole Keller in the second inning and compile four and one-third scoreless innings for Grain Valley. Lee’s Summit would produce at least one baserunner each frame that Bown was on the mound. The senior pitcher would work around trouble each inning to defend the Eagles lead. Making the contribution more noteworthy was that Bown was called on to close out the game prior during the first matchup of the double hitter. “When I go to the mound, it is to throw strikes and let my defense make plays behind me. That permits me to fill up the zone and avoid pressure getting to me,” Bown said. “My fastball tends to get better as the game progresses. That was the case again today. Winning two games on a Friday puts a sunny outlook for the pace we are on headed into next week. This puts a good taste in your mouth.” Bosserman has worked hard during the first ten games of the season to avoid being out in front while at the plate. A common misstep that hitters battle in keeping their weight balanced through their swing. The senior would adjust his approach to produce a base hit in the third inning and a no doubt
home run that cleared the left field fence in the fifth inning. Bosserman exhibited strong hands and wrists to pull the ball as a right handed hitter on his homer that would deliver two runs batted in for the Eagles. The outcome would lead to the difference in victory for Grain Valley in a one run game. “The home run in the fifth came on a 2-0 pitch. I was looking for an inside fastball and got one. I struggled to be on time today. I was determined to see that one in and I did,” Bosserman said. “I got a good read off the bat with the sharp grounder in the seventh inning. Once I got to the ball, I put faith in (Parker) Stone that he would deliver because the throw was so hurried. It turned out great.” Bosserman finished, “This is a new set. Hanging out with the guys has been fun since we graduated a good number of seniors last season. The new faces have been good to get to know.” The Eagles have produced five runs per game on average so far this season. The team has been involved in four games that have been decided by a one run margin. Learning to be competitive in those circumstances toughens teams for pressure cooker situations that arrive as the campaign unfolds in late April and May. A fact not lost on Eagles head baseball coach Brian Driskell. A humble Driskell spoke to the determination his team displayed following back to back wins over the Tigers. “This is a fun team be around. We talked after the previous game about our persistence, even when throwing strikes has fallen away for us. Bown finished out the first game and only threw twelve (pitches). I knew he was going to be the first guy I called upon in the second game if needed. Bown’s ability to get outs with runners on base was Houdini like. It speaks to how invaluable it is to throw strikes,” Driskell said. “Parker (Bosserman) had a big hit for us today. He drew the praise of the opposition and their head coach. Bosserman’s play late in the game in getting rid of it quick was special, and man, Parker Stone who has been dealing with an injury, made a great pick at first and saved the game for us.” Driskell continued, “When you have a
From left to right: Seniors Riley Bown and Parker Bosserman. Photo credit: Valley News staff three run lead, you are not always aware you will need every bit of that to come out on top. It is a massive advantage to have a leadoff hitter like Bosserman who can bunt for a base hit or put one over the left field fence.”
Grain Valley will face Oak Park, Staley, and William Chrisman the week of April 5th prior to competing in the Northland Baseball Tournament the week of April 12th.
Eagles leadoff hitter Parker Bosserman makes contact with the ball at the plate. Photo credit: Valley News staff
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Lady Eagles churn out gritty win against Panthers by John Unrein The Grain Valley Lady Eagles soccer team put their unblemished record on the line against the Park Hill South Panthers at Moody Murray Stadium on April 5th. A slight breeze and seventy one degrees with sunshine greeted both teams as they took to the field on a beautiful spring evening. The endzone facing the concession stand witnessed sophomore goalkeeper Camihle Williams practicing blocking fundamentals as Grain Valley head coach Tyler Nichol kicked an array of soccer balls in the direction of Williams prior to the start of the game. The focus on fundamentals would come in handy for Williams as she would play a solid second half in goal for the Lady Eagles. Seniors Sophie Broockerd, Raena Childers, and Valerie Holcomb would join Williams in putting forth a strong effort in helping secure the 2-1 win against a Suburban Conference opponent. The narrow victory let the Grain Valley sideline breathe a sigh of relief as the final seconds ticked off the clock. Nichol was upbeat in praising the effort of his team as they faced a strong opponent in what felt like a playoff atmosphere. The Lady Eagles had to overcome the Panthers high press and going into the wind in the first half. Furthermore, Park Hill South possessed the ball more as the game progressed, which led to a 19-10 shots on goal advantage for the Panthers. Nichol indicated the satisfaction garnered from watching his team compete during high leverage situations. “This was a great win. First thing after the game in our team huddle, one of the girls said, ‘that was tough, but fun.’ This was a postseason like game against a team that feels like they could
possibly make a run this year in Class 4,” Nichol said. “We took advantage of the chances we had in the first half (to gain the lead) only to have a couple slip away from us in the second half. Overall, this was a different type of game tonight. Coach (Brett) Lewis said it best when he described this as a ‘gritty’ win for us.” Nichol continued, “We challenged the girls at halftime about being tougher on corner kicks and facing their (Park Hill South) set pieces. I was happy with how our team responded and the ‘grit’ they displayed. We got passed the initial feeling out period of two good teams who do not know each other that well.” “The offense we displayed in the first fifteen minutes of the game with the goals by Raena (Childers) and Valerie (Holcomb) provided enough momentum for us to be successful. It would also be easy to say that Camihle (Williams) had her best game of the young season in goal for us tonight as well. Sophie (Broockerd) was all over the place. She does not know any speed other than one hundred percent. Broockerd got her ankle taped at halftime and it did not affect her play.” Childers would score first for Grain Valley four minutes into the first half on a charge through the middle of the Panthers defense. Holcomb would follow suit thirteen minutes into the first half as well. A deflected shot by Park Hill South goalkeeper Lauren Longenecker off the right foot of Emma Thiessen would spin to the waiting foot of Holcomb to the right of the action for the goal. That would be all the offense Grain Valley would need. Williams would make three crucial stops for the Lady Eagles in goal at 22 and 28 minutes into the first half to
combine with a crucial save made 30 minutes into the second half. Equally as impressive was the four stops made by Broockerd in the second half. Broockerd would square up each charge only to mirror her opponent before halting the soccer ball. The adoration was distinct from Grain Valley teammates and the sideline for Williams and Broockerd in the waning minutes of the contest. “Emma (Thiessen) and Raena (Childers) did a good job of getting the ball up and I was lucky to get the rebound. I did not even think about the shot, I just reacted. It has been great to start this season undefeated,” Holcomb said. Broockerd added, “We were all motivated to get our sixth win tonight against a big school. The second half tried us, but we were determined to keep our focus on the basics, and it paid off.” Childers concluded, “Our two goals early definitely established the pace of the game. I have always been told that a 2-0 lead is the hardest one to keep in a
Left to right: Seniors Raena Childers, Sophie Broockerd, and Valerie Holcomb. Photo credit: Valley News staff soccer game. It did give us the momentum needed to stay strong down the stretch. Starting the season 6-0 gives us extra motivation to keep this going.” Grain Valley will next travel to Blue Springs to face the Wildcats on April 9th.
Left: Senior Valerie Holcomb attempts to gain control of the ball. Right: Senior Raena Childers charges down the left side of the Panther defense. Photo credit: Valley News staff
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My two favorite Chiefs COMMENTARY by John Unrein Patrick Mahomes is a generational talent. The 2018 National Football League Most Valuable Player and 2019 Super Bowl MVP has endeared himself to the hearts of many Kansas City Chiefs fans. And for good reason, as the franchise struggled for years to draft and develop a talent that could bring both the Lamar Hunt (AFC Championship) and Vince Lombardi (Super Bowl) trophies home to One Arrowhead Drive. Those old enough to remember names like Todd Blackledge, Matt Blundin, and Brodie Croyle know exactly what I am talking about. One of my favorite attributes of football is offensive line play. Even during the era of the spread offense and run pass option (RPO) that produce video game like numbers, football games are still won at the line of scrimmage in the trenches. Offensive lineman must possess the will to fight in a space the size of a phone booth for 50 to 70 snaps a game on average. It takes a toll on the body and challenges the mental toughness of those who man the position. It has been said that it does not matter how you get to the NFL, just that you seize the opportunity upon arrival. Both of my two favorite Chiefs players are examples of this mantra. Andrew Wylie and Nick Allegretti would by my first picks to walk through a dark alley with on the current roster. Wylie and Allegretti carved out starting spots along the Chiefs offensive line as an undrafted free agent and 7th round draft pick, respectively. Wylie broke into the NFL in 2017 after signing as an undrafted rookie free agent with the Baltimore Ravens before bouncing to the Indianapolis Colts roster, prior to ending up with the Chiefs. He was one of the stars of Chiefs training camp in 2018. Wylie would go on to play in all 16 games that season, including starting the final 10 games at right guard after a leg injury sidelined Dr. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif. A trend that continued again this past season as Wylie started in the same spot with Duvernay-Tardif opting out of the season for COVID-19 reasons. The 6’ 6” three hundred and nine pound lineman starred collegiately at Eastern Michigan as an offensive tackle and was used primarily at that spot as a reserve for the Chiefs prior to Tardif’s
injury. Wylie has possessed the Twitter handles of, “Lineman versus everyone,” and “My Madden ranking does not define me.” Both are a window into Wylie’s mindset as he has had to earn everything thus far during his professional career. Surprisingly enough, Wylie was not invited to the NFL combine, despite being recognized with All-MAC Conference Honors and staring 44 games at Eastern Michigan in helping to propel his alma mater to its first bowl game in 29 years during his senior campaign. However, NFL teams could not ignore the numbers Wylie put up during his pro day in the spring of 2017. His numbers turned the heads of professional scouts. Wylie bench pressed 340 pounds, along with posting a 4.5 second 20-yard shuttle, a 9-foot7 inch broad jump, and a 34-inch vertical leap. This performance would have placed him near the top of all offensive lineman at the NFL combine. Wylie reaped respect from his teammates in 2018 by winning the Mack Lee Hill Award, given to the Chiefs Rookie of the Year as voted on by the team. Wylie’s tenacious play in the trenches is what has been most impressive though. He plays to end of the whistle, often getting under the skin of his opponents. This was apparent during the Chiefs week 14 matchup of the 2018 season against the Baltimore Ravens during the regular season. The Ravens defense was unnerved by Wylie’s use of leverage in the run game as well as his final hand placement in pass protection. Usually, it is the Ravens’ opponents that take exception to their physical play, not the other way around. A similar scenario played out during the Chiefs Super Bowl LIV loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Wylie replaced starter Mike Remmers at right tackle due to Remmers moving to left tackle to fill in for the injured Eric Fisher. Wylie went toe to toe with Ndamukong Suh, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Shaquil Barrett on football’s biggest stage. Words were exchanged between Wylie and his Buccaneer foes without a fight occurring. Wylie did not back down when challenged and put forth a resolute effort against the NFL’s sixth overall rated defense in 2020. No one has accused Wylie of being a dirty player. On the contrary, the
pushing and shoving that occurs with Wylie after the play has been because opponents know it is going to be a long day against number 77 for the Chiefs. Wylie has simply done whatever has been asked of him for the betterment of the team. Wylie’s unselfishness has paid off for him. The NFLPA has recently announced 2020 performance-based pay distributions. Wylie was the highest grossing Chief on the list following his third season in the league, obtaining $542,979 in performance based pay for his performance on the gridiron last season. That number is on top of the $750,000 base salary that Wylie already earned with the franchise in 2020. Wylie has started 35 games for the Chiefs overall, including a career high 14 starts that was good for 92% of the team’s offensive downs played last season. Wylie’s playing time during 2020 is what earned him the additional pay day. Most often, it is a player that contributes significant snaps for his team with a lower range salary that is rewarded under the NFL’s performance based pay formula. Allegretti has not been far away from Wylie both literally and figuratively since entering the NFL in 2019 as a seventhround pick (216th overall) by the Chiefs. The 6’ 4” three hundred and twenty pound lineman played left guard opposite of Wylie for most of the 2020 season, starting in 9 games. Versatility is one of Allegretti’s calling cards, much like the aforementioned Wylie. Allegretti has lined up at both center and guard for the Chiefs. A trait that was copied during his collegiate career at the University of Illinois as well. Allegretti was the number three
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rated guard in the county by Pro Football Focus in 2018 while earning PFF All-Big 10 Second Team honors. The Fighting Illini product was tied for first in pass blocking efficiency (99.4) among Power 5 offensive guards in the 2019 draft class according to PFF. Allegretti “left the pocket clean” as they say while giving up zero sacks and zero quarterback hits in his last fifteen collegiate games. The strong play of Allegretti has carried over to the pro level. Fox Sports television analyst and Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman lauded Allegretti’s play during his first career start on October 19th in a matchup against the Buffalo Bills. The Chiefs would amass 245 rushing yards in a 2619 victory over the Bills. It is rare for a young offensive lineman to receive the praise that Allegretti did from Aikman in that game with ten minutes left to go in the fourth quarter on national television. Allegretti represented himself and his team well in filling in for Mike Remmers at left guard, who was moved to right tackle to start for the injured Mitchell Schwartz against the Bills. Allegretti would go on to only give up one sack and accumulate four penalties of the 694 snaps he played during the 2020 season according to PFF. It is easy to say that Allegretti was part of the solution and not the problems that hampered the Chiefs offensive line last
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CHIEFS continued from page 11 season. That is likely why Allegretti will be permitted to compete for a starting role at center along with recent free agent signee Austin Blythe. The previous starting center for the Los Angeles Rams, Blythe gave up four sacks and accrued one penalty in 1120 offensive snaps during the 2020 campaign per PFF. A generous heart has also been displayed by Allegretti off the field. The Illini’s “Lift for Life” campaign raised more than $88,000 for charity over the course of Allegretti’s last two years on campus. Allegretti was also the President of the Illinois Uplifting Athletes Chapter, which raises funds for rare disease research and treatment. Furthermore, Allegretti was a two-time Wuerffel Trophy nominee, which annually recognizes those that excel both on the field and in community service. The Chiefs have been busy this offseason retooling their offensive line during free agency. Remmers has been resigned to a one year deal. Blythe, Joe Thuney, and Kyle Long round out the remainder of the Chiefs additions up front. Also returning to the Chiefs for the 2021 season will be their 3rd round selection in the 2020 draft, right tackle Lucas Niang from Texas Christian University, who opted out of the 2020 season due to COVID-19 concerns. There are 80 million reasons why Thuney will be given the starting nod at left guard for the Chiefs heading into the 2021 season. The five year contract signed by Thuney this offseason is worth $80,000,000, including a $17,000,000 signing bonus, and has $46,890,000 million of the agreement guaranteed. Not too shabby for the former Patriots ProBowl selection. Both Remmers and Long will be 32 years of age when the season begins. Duvernay-Tardif will be 30 years old.
Father Time eventually catches up to offensive lineman who pass the threshold of 30 in the NFL. There are rare exceptions like tackles Andrew Whitworth and Trent Williams (who recently signed a 6 year $138 million with the 49ers at the age of 32). However, technique and strength are relied upon more than athleticism as age accumulates in football. Long and Duvernay-Tardif are slated to compete for the starting job at right guard. Tardif has appeared to the naked eye to lack the same lateral quickness he possessed prior to fracturing his fibula in week five of the 2018 season. Long has suffered shoulder, hip, and ankle injuries that eventually led to his retirement from professional football prior to the 2020 season. Long, the son of former Raiders Hall of Fame defensive end Howie Long is a difference maker along the offensive line when healthy. Long was selected to the Pro Bowl in three consecutive seasons from 2013-2015. All of this leads to Wylie standing on the outside looking in and Allegretti competing with an established veteran for a starting role. It is an old football adage that “depth charts are not set in stone.” This bring me solace in knowing that Wylie and Allegretti will be rewarded if they continue to perform at a high level during the offseason and training camp. Wins are too hard to come by in the NFL not to have your best offensive lineman start for you. Especially, when they are protecting the best player in the National Football League in Patrick Mahomes. I would enjoy the opportunity to meet my two favorite Kansas City Chiefs. My hope is that some day I get to take my picture with both Wylie and Allegretti in a post-pandemic world. I look forward to watching them compete and the return of football to Chiefs Kingdom.
Community Calendar Saturday, April 10, 2021 Spring Cleaning for a Cause 9:00am - 1:00pm Community of Christ Auditorium 1111 West Pacific Ave, Indep., 64050 With Spring quickly approaching, CSL and Thrift World are inviting you to start fresh by de-cluttering your home and donating non-perishable food, household items and gently used clothing. No matter the items you find within your home, chances are they can be beneficial to our neighbors in the community. For your convenience and to minimize contact, this will be a drive-thru collection located at 1111 West Pacific Avenue, Independence, MO 64050. ITEMS ACCEPTED: - Gently used or new clothing - Shoes - Handbags - Bedding - Small Appliances - Household items Do you have larger items such as furniture you are interested in parting ways with? Contact CSL at 816-254-4100 or info@cslcares.org to learn more about our pick-up service. Monday, April 12, 2021 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main ST Wednesday, April 14, 2021 Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting 6:30pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main ST
Thursday, April 15, 2021 Stomp, Clap, and Sing with Dinosaur O’Dell 10:00am -10:40am Whether counting monsters, fixing spaceships, or swimming in peanut butter, Dino engages children with music and stories. www.mymcpl.org/events
Monday, April 19, 2021 Grow a Reader Virtual Storytime 10:00am -10:20am www.mymcpl.org/events Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Park Board Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley Community Center Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Tech Talk: Cricut Design Space (Part 1) 1:00pm—1:30pm This series will cover a new user’s experience with his/her Cricut machine. Learn with Brityni as she gets to know her new craft device. www.mymcpl.org/events Saturday, April 24, 2021 Drug Take-Back event 10:00am—2:00pm Grain Valley Police Department parking lot, 711 Main Street Free to all for safe disposal of prescription and non-prescription medications. NO syringes. Monday, April 26, 2021 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main ST Saturday, June 5, 2021 City Wide Clean Up event 8:00am—2:00pm 405 James Rollo DR, Grain Valley City Wide Clean Up is a free annual service by our Public Works division. It is an opportunity for Grain Valley residents to dispose of unwanted items. Items that are not accepted include: tires, paint, oil, refrigerators, household cleaners/chemicals, air conditioner units, bagged trash, yard waste or clippings. Proof of residency is required. Add your community event at www.grainvalleynews.com/ eventscalendar
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PHARMACY GRAND OPENING APRIL 15TH
F re e D e l i v e r y Curbsite Drop-off and Pickup Now Open at 510 N Main, Grain Valley 9:00am - 7:00pm Monday - Friday, 9:00am - 1:00pm Saturday
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