Valley News JULY 23, 2020
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Vol. 3, No. 29
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Sni Valley Academy Commencement Celebrates Achievements Under Tough Circumstances Students graduating from Sni Valley Academy, Grain Valley High School’s alternative program, were finally able to celebrate their achievement in a graduation ceremony held July 16th at Grain Valley High School. Dr. Jeremy Plowman, principal of Sni Valley Academy, praised the graduates for their commitment to achieving their goals, citing a study indicating that less than 50% of alternative school students graduate. “For the second year in a row, the Sni Valley graduation rate is over 90% and that is something to be proud of,” Plowman said. “We are always proud of our graduates, but this year is extra gratifying considering all they have been through. Alternative students face many challenges throughout the course of their high school careers; seeing them get the job done, especially under the toughest of circumstances this year, is very special. We wish each graduate the best of luck in the future,” Ryan Adams, teacher at Sni Valley Academy said. Jill Maxon, special education teacher at Sni Valley Academy, praised the family members and guardians for supporting the graduates. In a message sent to parents and students, Maxon noted that the celebration was not just for the students, “…but it is in fact a celebration for anyone who helped
these graduates. I want to give a special thank you to my colleague Mr. Adams. Sni Valley wouldn’t run as smoothly as it does if it wasn’t for him. He teaches each student who walks through our doors the true value of accountability, a lesson they often don’t even realize they are learning, and once they realize they are forever grateful,” Maxon wrote. Sni Valley Academy Graduates: May 2020 Graduates: Alejandro Alcantara-Perez Gabriel Arreguin Brandon Bly Connor Harkness Tatum Maggard Austin Perry Tyler Speer Weston Swanson William Zeigler December 2019 Graduates: Nicholas Fischer Tanner Houston Karson Kolle Kaitlyn Kreie Skylar McFarland Gabryel Meier Spencer Melton Kody Miller Skylar Pyle Braden Rogers Kayla Vrentas
Sni Valley Academy graduates celebrated graduation during a commencement ceremony at Grain Valley High School on July 16th. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Good News: District Recognizes AP All Stars
Board Discusses Plan For City Owned Property The Board of Aldermen met Monday, July 20th at City Hall for a workshop session to discuss strategic planning, City owned properties, plans to address crowding and facility issues at City Hall and the Police Department, and to discuss food truck fees. City Administrator Ken Murphy provided a list of city-owned properties to facilitate a discussion of what is owned and plans for each piece of land. Mayor Chuck Johnston said he would like to see properties that do not have a use to be sold, allowing the City to recoup some of the investment.
Johnston questioned if the land on Main Street currently used as a community garden could be sold. “Do we even see if those people have their own properties where they could be putting their own garden rather than using our facilities,” Johnston asked. “I’m sure they do. It’s just the idea of a community garden that is common,” Murphy said, pointing to similar gardens in the area, including Blue Springs. Murphy explained the property used as a community garden lies in a flood plain, making it difficult for development.
see BOARD on page 5
Grain Valley High School teachers teamed up this week to place 201 yard signs in the yards of students earning a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam. Photo credit: Grain Valley Schools
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Police Blotter
County Executive Vetoes Statue Ordinance Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. issued a veto on July 22nd of Ordinance 5374, which proposes a question to voters on the November general election ballot authorizing the removal of Andrew Jackson statues located at the Jackson County Courthouse in Kansas City and the Historic Truman Courthouse in Independence. Last week, the County Legislature voted 7-2 in favor of the Ordinance. “I am hopeful that the passage of time has provided an opportunity for members of our Legislature to reflect on their vote and act differently,” Jackson County Executive Frank White, Jr. said. “However, I am vetoing this Ordinance, not just in the hopes that Legislators will
reconsider their position, but also to allow them the individual opportunity to take a clear position and directly tell the residents of our community if they believe the statues should be taken down or not. Additionally, I would like to commend the courageous actions of Legislators Jalen Anderson and Ron Finley, the two dissenting votes of the Ordinance, who have passionately voiced their commitment to fairness, justice and equality in Jackson County.” White called for the removal of the two statues on June 25th, following a surge of similar calls across the country to remove statues of figures that proponents of such measures believe to be hurtful images of the nation’s legacy of racism and oppression.
The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of July 8-14, 2020.
July 8, 2020 1100 Block McQuerry 700 Block Main St Woodbury/Maple 900 Block Ryan Rd 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney 1300 Block Sycamore 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Dean Dr Ridgeview/Muriel 200 Block Michael 200 Block Gregg BB Hwy/Eagles Pkwy 100 Block Jackie BB Hwy 300 Block Broadway
To Hold Amnesty Week Grain Valley Municipal Court is holding an amnesty week for those with active municipal warrant cases. Those wishing to participate must appear in
person during business hours, 8:00am – 5:00pm, at Grain Valley City Hall, 711 Main ST, to resolve active warrants July 27July 31, 2020.
Agency Assist (EMS) Citizen Contact Suspicious Vehicle Suspicious Activity Agency Assist (EMS) Citizen Contact Citizen Assist Check the Well Being Juveniles on Minibikes Shots Fired Disturbance Agency Assist (JCSO) Citizen Contact Debris in Roadway Agency Assist (OGPD)
700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St Sni-A-Bar & AA Hwy 200 Block Walnut 1100 Block Pamela 1300 Block Cherry 700 Block Squire Ct 1800 Block Mya Ct 1300 Block Jefferson 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney 1200 Block Eagles Greystone Cir 1400 Block Minter Way 600 Block Montana Ridge 600 Block Yennie Ave 1200 Block Baytree 1200 Block Eagles Parkway
Leaving Scene of Motor Vehicle Accident Citizen Contact Agency Assist (CJC) Found Property Burglary Suspicious Juvenile Motorist Assist Agency Assist (KCPD) Open Door
July 12, 2020
700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 800 Block SW Cross Creek 900 Block Ryan Rd Woodbury/BB Hwy 300 Block Coldwater Creek 1200 Block RD Mize Rd
700 Block Main St 100 Block Sunny Ln 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney 600 Block Muriel Dr 500 Block Main 300 Block Woodbury 100 Block Oak 700 Block Albatross 1000 Block Ryan Rd 1100 Block Casey Blvd Long & Silverstone
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w w w. g ra i n va l l e y n e w s . c o m
600 Block Tisha Duncan Rd & BB Hwy 1800 Block Bradford Ct 300 Block Old US 40 Hwy Nelson & Woodland
Civil Standby Careless and Imprudent Driver Noise Complaint Motor Vehicle Accident Citizen Contact
July 13, 2020 July 10, 2020
Valley News
Stealing Stealing Motor Vehicle Accident Alarm Animal Control Prisoner Transport Alarm Alarm Alarm Area Check Trespassing Noise Complaint Alarm Disturbance Civil Standby Area Check Citizen Contact
July 9, 2020 700 Block Main St
Grain Valley Municipal Court
July 11, 2020
Repossession Assault Citizen Contact Trespassing Unattended Death Alarm Motor Vehicle Accident Harassment Alarm Alarm Assault Area Check
1000 Block Dean Lakeview and Ginger Hill 700 Block Main St 2200 Block Hedgewood 1400 Block Willow Dr 700 Block Main St Sni-A-Bar and Blue Branch
Civil Standby Disturbance Citizen Contact Alarm Parking Complaint Assault Area Check
July 14, 2020 2700 Block Dillingham Rd RD Mize Rd & BB Hwy 200 Block Aaron Ln
Agency Assist (OPD) Agency Assist (JCSO) Abandoned Vehicle
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Looking Back: Picture Of Lucas And Peters Becomes Clearer by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society The quest to learn more about the establishment of the town of Grain Valley has led to some surprising revelations. From previously written histories I had learned, “When the railroad came through, the two townships (Pink Hill & Stony Point) relocated at a midway point between them. They consolidated and formed the City of Grain Valley, Missouri on September 5, 1878 at a location near the main line of the railroad. James Lucas surveyed the land for Joseph Peters.” Several histories noted that the town size was 10-acres. In last week’s article for Valley News, I noted the land was probably owned by Lucas. Several hours of research on ancestry and a telephone call to the Jackson County Recorder of Deeds revealed what I believe is a more accurate picture. In 1877, James F. Lucas of Lake Fork Township, Logan County, Illinois, owned 120acres in the southwest quarter of Township 49, Range 30, Section 35 in Jackson County, Missouri. A genealogy search for Mr. Lucas revealed that he was born in Logan County on December 20, 1845, married in Logan County in 1867, farmed in Logan County and appeared on the U. S. Census as a Logan County resident from 1850 through 1880. By 1890 he had moved a few miles south to Illiopolis, Illinois, now a suburb of Springfield, in Sangamon County. In other words, he was a lifelong resident of Illinois. On the 1900 Census it did state his occupation as “landlord.” When I contacted the Jackson County Recorder of Deeds, I received this document. A strong magnifying glass and a couple hours work revealed this statement at the top of the first page. (The top of the map is East, the left is North, the bottom is West, and the right is South)
Know all men by those present that I James F. Lucas of the County of Logan in the State of Illinois do by those present set apart four acres of land located in the County of Jackson and the State of Missouri described as follows, that is to say, commencing fifty-eight feet south of northwest corner of the east quarter of the southwest quarter of Section (35) thirty-five, Township (49) forty-nine, Range 30, hence seven hundred and fifteen feet, hence east four hundred and forty feet, hence south to the railroad hence following the railroad due West one hundred and twenty feet hence south to the southern limits of the town hence West to the place of beginning making in all four acres more or less all of said tract of land situated on the Kansas City-St. Louis and ( ? ) railroad. For the ( ? ) and purpose and profit of the town of Grain Valley. The aforesaid town being laid off by Joseph Peters given under my hand and seal this fifth day of September A.D. 1878. James H Cannon
Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society
This statement appeared on the top of page two.
State of Missouri County of Jackson Be it remembered the James F. Lucas who is personally known to me the undersigner, Notary Public, within and for the said County to be the person whose name is subscribed to the foregoing instrument in writing As proxy there in this day and hour (?) and acknowledged that he executed and delivered the same as his voluntary act and deed for the title and purchase wherein mentioned given by my hand and official seal this fifth day of September A.D. 1878 J. H. Cannon My commission is dated April 7th, 1877 And expires April 2nd, 1882 While the wording is unusual, the second document grants Mr. Cannon the right to represent Lucas and turn the land (only “about” 4-acres) over to the City of Grain Valley. I would suspect that Mr. Lucas never left Logan County. James Cannon was a resident of the area and had a vested interest in the town. He had moved his mercantile
Visit the Grain Valley Historical Society at 506 S. Main on Wednesdays or visit us online at www.grainvalleyhistory.com and Facebook (@grainvalleyhistory).
business to a store he built on Main Street south and adjacent to the new railroad. As for Joseph Peters, there is no record that he ever lived in Grain Valley. However, I did learn that he married Amanda Parlee Christison on July 29, 1869. She was the daughter of John Christison who owned property in Section 36 (just north of U. S. 40 Highway & the East Kansas City Airport). His post office box was Blue Springs because there was no Grain Valley at that time. The Christison family was living on this land in 1845 when Amanda was born. Joseph and Amanda Peters may have lived with her parents or rented a house, but there is no record of their having owned any property. The 1880 U. S. Census stated their residence as Preston in Jasper County, MO. The 1885 and 1895 Kansas Census stated their residence was Key West Township, Coffey County, Kansas and Joseph Peters occupation was listed as “surveyor.” They remained in California, Coffey County, Kansas until their deaths in 1909 (Joseph) and 1915 (Amanda). So, it might be safe to say that Peters & Lucas were just in town to earn a living as a surveyor and make a buck off of some land when the town came to the railroad. They didn’t stick around to earn any prominent citizen awards. Next Week: Learn about the Cannon Addition, and Graves & Ashcroft Addition.
Business
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Celebrating Philanthropy In Our Community by Phil Hanson, President and CEO, Truman Heartland Community Foundation Each year, your Community Foundation has the privilege of recognizing individuals and organizations who have made a significant philanthropic impact in Eastern Jackson County at our Toast to Our Towns Gala. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the event and on September 26, 2020 we will host a Gala like no other in our organization’s history. Presented by CommunityAmerica Credit Union, this year’s Toast to Our Towns Gala will be delivered live through a dynamic online celebration. The one-hour celebration of philanthropy will start at 7:00 p.m. and broadcast to more than 40 different watch parties throughout the region. During the event, we will recognize Brent Schondelmeyer and Lee Williams as our Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Speaks Chapels as our Heartland Corporate Citizen of the Year, Junior Service League of Independence will receive our Heartland Service Award and Adam Kliethermes will receive the Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year Award. Our 2020 Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Brent Schondelmeyer and Lee Williams have worked across sectors to drive community initiatives in
Independence and across the region for more than 30 years. Brent, a journalist and well-known local historian, is the Deputy Director of Local Investment Commission (LINC) and oversees programs that help strengthen older and low-income neighborhoods throughout Eastern Jackson County. Lee retired as Library Director at Graceland University and is an advocate for public health initiatives. Together, Brent and Lee advocate for historic preservation and civic improvements and contribute to the community by working behind the scenes with several nonprofits and on local initiatives. Lee is a past President of Health Sciences Library Network of Kansas City and led local efforts for the 2006 Clean Indoor Air Act. Brent is a leader at First Christian Church of Independence and a current trustee and past President of the Board of MidContinent Public Library. Speaks Chapels is our 2020 Heartland Corporate Citizen of the Year. A thirdgeneration family-owned funeral provider, Speaks Chapels has been serving the Eastern Jackson County community for more than 80 years. Under the leadership of President and CEO Brad Speaks, Speaks Chapels supports the community during times of grief and through their commitment to philanthropy. Speaks Chapels’ employees are active volunteers, many serving on the Boards of area nonprofits.
Missouri Unemployment Rate Falls To 7.9 Percent The Missouri labor market’s recovery continued in June 2020, according to the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s June Jobs Report, following the major job losses earlier in the year from COVID-19 shutdowns. Employment, seasonally adjusted, increased by 71,600 jobs over the month, and over-the year job losses, though still substantial, were less than in April and May. The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased more than two full percentage points from May 2020 to June 2020, while May’s rate
was unchanged from preliminary estimates. Missouri’s smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate went down by 2.2 percentage points in June 2020, decreasing to 7.9 percent from a revised May 2020 rate of 10.1 percent. The national unemployment rate was 11.1 percent in June 2020. Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has now been either below or equal to the national rate for 64 consecutive months.
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Additionally, the company lends financial support to nonprofits throughout the region and to community projects, like the Independence Uptown Market and Harry S. Truman Library and Museum renovations. Celebrating 75 years of continuous service to the community in 2020, Junior Service League of Independence is receiving our Heartland Service Award. An organization of dedicated women who have a passion for community leadership, service to others and personal growth, JSL has been connecting and empowering women to positively impact the community through service since 1945. From advocating for arts education and women’s healthcare to leading volunteer programs and historic preservation projects, the women of JSL have provided countless volunteer hours and significant financial contributions that have shaped the fabric of Independence and the greater Eastern Jackson County community. Adam Kliethermes is our Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year. A second-generation Investment Advisor for Edward Jones, Adam brings a unique perspective for financial planning. Adam earned a Master’s of Accountancy and JD from the University of Missouri and joined Edward Jones in 2011. Having grown up in the business and community he serves, Adam has a distinct ability to develop strategies that
serve his clients and the community. The past chair of Truman Heartland’s Independence/Sugar Creek Advisory Board, Adam played an important role in expanding the Community Foundation’s Professional Advisor network. These four honorees embody the spirit of giving in Eastern Jackson County and are a special example of what a community can achieve when people work together for a greater cause. Stay tuned for our official announcement of the 2020 Citizens of the Year, chosen by our area mayors. You can find more information about this year’s honorees, plans for the online event and how you can sponsor a watch party and join in the celebration on Saturday, September 26, 2020, at www.thcf.org/Gala.
Phil Hanson is the President and CEO of Truman Heartland Community Foundation. Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) is a 501(c) (3) public charity committed to improving the communities in and around Eastern Jackson County through cooperation with community members and donors. THCF serves the region with assets of more than $50 million and annual grants surpassing $4.8 million. For more information on charitable giving, visit www.thcf.org or call Truman Heartland at 816.836.8189.
Local News
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School Board Approves Sale of $8 Million In General Obligation Bonds The Grain Valley School Board voted to approve the issuance and sale of $8 million in general obligation bonds during its July 16th meeting. The board plans to issue another $6.5 million in bonds in January. The bond sale is a result of the $14 million bond issue passed on June 2nd. Superintendent Dr. Marc Snow informed the board it would be 2024 before another bond issue could be considered. Improvements and construction around the district are in full swing, ranging from a soft remodel and carpet upgrade at Sni-A-Bar Elementary, to the renovation of the high school’s performing arts center and new parking lot on the east side of the high school. Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services Beth Mulvey updated the board on summer school, stating the students and teachers were both eager and excited to return to the classroom and are managing COVID-19 related changes well. “Students deal with the mask requirement much better than adults do,” Mulvey said. Board member Jeff Coleman raised the issue of how the schools are monitoring how students who have an exemption from wearing masks are being treated by other students. Coleman shared he has an exemption to Jackson County’s mask mandate due to health reasons. “I’m one of the exemptions, but if I don’t wear a mask, everyone just swarms on me. I just want to know how are we treating those kids with other
kids who may be giving them a hard time for not wearing a mask,” Coleman said. “I’ve not had any reports of anyone being mistreated. However, we’ve only had three students out of the entire summer school population request an exemption, and no teachers,” Mulvey said. “We’ll take care of that the same way we take care of any bullying incident. Fortunately, it hasn’t been an issue.” The district anticipates releasing plans regarding the 2020-21 school year later this week. Families were asked this summer to indicate whether they intended to return to the classroom or request a virtual option. “If a child is going to be virtual to start the school year, we’re going to ask them to make at least a nine week commitment on that,” Dr. Brad Welle, Deputy Superintendent of Student and Community Services, said. Welle indicated he has talked with several families regarding concerns and emphasized the district is simply asking families to indicate their intentions at this point so administrators can plan accordingly. As of last week’s meeting, 65 families had requested to participate in a virtual option. “Parents get to change their mind. It’s too important a decision for us to lock them in at this point. We’re just trying to plan ahead, so we’re asking people now what their intention is,” Welle said. In other business, the Education Foundation’s golf tournament has been postponed to October 16th due to COVID19.
BOARD continued from page 1 The Board discussed other smaller pieces of land along Main Street that may be suitable for sale. The sale of the Sni-A-Bar Farms property was also discussed, with Murphy cautioning the board to carefully consider future land needs before selling larger pieces of property. The Board discussed current facility needs at City Hall and Police Department, and the next steps forward following the defeat of a bond issue in June which would have created a municipal campus at the old Sni-A-Bar
farm property. The Board must decide on a plan in the near future due to the upcoming debt levy decision. Baker Tilly will present options at the next board meeting to address City facility needs. The board also reviewed comparable fees for food trucks in surrounding cities and debated what fees would be appropriate. Murphy will review options discussed with the City’s legal counsel. The next regular meeting of the Board of Aldermen is set for 7:00pm on Monday, July 27th at City Hall.
The Grain Valley School Board held their regular meeting prior to the Sni Valley Academy graduation at Grain Valley High School on July 16th. Photo credit: Valley News staff
Solution to last week’s puzzle:
Community Voices
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Wayne’s World Movies And Memories by Wayne Geiger It was a normal day in the life of a 17year-old. I was doing my own thing, living my own life. The phone rang at the house. In a strong Italian accent, I heard, “Wayne! No hotta watah. It’s the watah heateh, the elementa.” It was my grandfather on the phone. I called him papa. He was about 89 at the time. My papa and noni came into the U.S. in 1919 from Italy and eventually migrated down to Hialeah, Florida. He spoke English well, but just had a strong accent. Papa and I had a special relationship. I admired him and I always knew that he loved me and was proud of me. I enjoyed being with him and learning things from him. As I listened to papa on the phone, I was trying to decipher what he was trying to say. I tried to ask for clarification, but he was a little hard of hearing and didn’t do well on the phone. Finally, I was able to figure out that he had no hot water at the house and the issue was the hot water heater. At the time, I worked at an electrical supply house, but knew very little about actual electricity. However, papa asked for me to come and I headed over. Once at papa’s, he walked me outside to a garage where the water heater was located. He said, “the hot watah heateh is no working. He then pointed to a cover plate on the unit and said, “the elementa.” “Oh, the element,” I thought. “That’s what he is saying. He thinks it’s the element.” He showed me how to drain the heater, remove the cover plate, locate and remove the element. I was curious how he knew that was the issue, but I respectfully headed to the hardware store to get a new one. In a short time, I replaced it, turned the water back on, and it worked like a charm! I was thrilled. As a 17-year-old, I had no idea how he knew what the problem was, but he knew. He was kind of like that. Papa knew a lot of stuff about a lot of stuff. He was a hard worker. As a product of the Great Depression, he was very frugal. I remember him doing odd jobs on the home and as a jack of all trades. He was still trying to get onto the roof of his home when he was in his 80s. I have many wonderful memories of my papa and think about him often. I wish I had learned more from him. Kids just have their own agenda and do their own thing. Only when we get older do we look back and wish we could have
changed a few things. I know have a grandson of my own. He, too, calls me me papa. I’m truly blessed in that I get a chance to see him several days a week. Having a child around the house is challenging, to say the least. After raising four kids, I thought my wife and I were finally empty nesters, but that’s not the case. Honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s always filled with energy and always wants to play. We have toys laying around the house and watch shows like Puppy Dog Pals, Roadster Racers, and Bluey. I’m glad that he enjoys coming over and we have a great relationship. Like a typical papa, I at times, spoil him something terrible. Nothing melts my heart more than hearing, “papa” from his lips. “Do you want to come in the pool papa?” he said playfully as he splashed around. I had just gotten home. Now, I’m not really a “pool person”. I grew up in Miami and had a pool growing up. To make matters worse, the pool that mama and papa got him is only 10-foot round and 30 inches deep. There is no actual swimming in this pool. I was resistant to join him. “Pweese,” he begged, giving me the sad face. Now, I’ve got a million things to work on, but five minutes later, I am in the pool and he and I are swimming away from the sharks, whirlpools, and tornadoes and having battles with the squirt guns. I realize my time with him is limited. Nothing is stable. I am enjoying the time. Although I am extremely busy, and there’s never a dull moment, one of the things that I’ve tried to do is say “yes” to him when I have every reason to say no. “Do you want to play Minecraft?” he asks as I sit on the couch perusing a book for an upcoming study. “Yes,” I say. There are times when he plays Minecraft on his handheld or on the game system, but that’s not what he’s talking about. He has quite the imagination and loves to make up games. He wants us to actually be the characters in Minecraft. The main character in the game is Steve who walks around and builds stuff. So, he and I, are both named Steve. “What should we do, Steve?” I ask. “Let’s go in the portal, Steve,” he says. For the next twenty minutes, or so, we’ll walk around the house and play Minecraft trying not to get killed by the zombies. He makes sure I get all the verbiage correct and that I’m faithful to the rules of the game.
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Pause” he says as I’m sitting on the couch. We’ve learned that when he says, pause, we’re supposed to freeze exactly where we are and not be cognizant of anything he’s doing while in this frozen state. Then, while we’re paused, he will move our arms around, put our finger in our own nose, or put objects in our hands. “Un-pause,” he says. At that point, we are supposed to be surprised at our unpleasant demise. For him, it never gets old. I have to cut him off at about thirty-seven times. BURRRRP. I couldn’t believe what came out of a six-year-old (think Elf and Pepsi). Laughing hysterically, he says, “That was a really big burp!” Triumphantly he asks, “Did I sound like a dinosaur?” “You did,” I said chuckling, “But, buddy, we need to practice good manners. “Excuse me,” he said. I try not to laugh uncontrollably. “Hey, buddy, do you want to make a movie?” Puzzled, he answered, “what kind of movie?” “You know,” I said excitedly, “I’ll just use my phone to record us doing something fun and we’ll make it into a movie!” He was all in and moments later, in interview style, I say, “today is [day/date] and we’re talking about what we did today.” We then shared the events of the day and I asked him to conclude with a short story that he had made up while we were in the
pool. To be honest, I did have ulterior motives for making the video. Time passes so quickly and he’s growing up so fast. One of the things I wish I had was a way to remember my papa. That option doesn’t exist. But, one of the things that I can do is help my grandson remember our time together. He doesn’t know it, but I plan on uploading these short videos to a YouTube channel that he’ll have access to when he gets older. So, in a sense, we’re making movies and memories. I’m sure, as he gets older, he won’t always be as excited to see papa. But one day, when I’m gone, he might want to reminisce about some of the fun times we had together. In addition to the fun times, I also look forward to sharing important information with him—like how much I love him, how proud I am of him, and how my ultimate desire is for him to know and serve the Lord, and that I’ll be waiting for him in heaven.
Dr. Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer.
Home & Garden
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Off-Colored Drupelets On Blackberries by Michelle Warmund, University of Missouri, Division of Plant Sciences July is the prime time for harvesting and enjoying blackberries. The fruit is ripe when the drupelets are uniformly black. However, sometimes individual or multiple drupelets on a blackberry are off-colored. White, tan, red, or brown drupelet discoloration can be caused by various factors during the growing season. White drupelet disorder on blackberry often occurs during hot, dry summers. Although drupelets enlarge during the growing season, they fail to turn red (Figure 1). These white or tan drupelets can be interspersed individually among dark-colored ones or in groups. In the past, white drupelet disorder was attributed to stinkbug feeding. However, white drupelets are caused by ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures. In studies conducted on red raspberry, unpigmented or white drupelets developed when fruit was exposed to temperatures of 107°F or higher with four or more hours of ultraviolet radiation. In another study, researchers found that the use of 30% shade cloth during the growing season reduced white drupelet disorder by 63%, but the total soluble solids (i.e., sugars) concentration of shaded fruit was 1% lower than non -shaded fruit, which slightly reduced blackberry sweetness.
Some of the older blackberry cultivars, such as Kiowa and Apache, are more prone to developing this disorder than others, but several are susceptible. While white drupelets on blackberries may not be aesthetically pleasing, affected fruit are edible. Interspersed red drupelets on ripe blackberry fruit can develop before or after harvest. Excessive rainfall before harvest has been associated with red drupelets that are soft and never turn black. In 2020, red drupelets were observed on the floricane crop Prime-Ark 45 blackberries grown in the field and in high tunnels in North Carolina. Also, a tiny eriophyid mite ( Acalitus essigi ) is known to cause "redberry" fruit on blackberry. Late-maturing blackberry cultivars are particularly prone to redberry mite infestations. These mites feed on the fruit core and at the base of berry drupelets. However, these mites are not common in the eastern United States. Reversion is the most common cause of red drupelets on blackberry fruit after harvest. With this disorder, some of the black drupelets at harvest change to a red color (Figure 2). Reversion occurs on blackberries that are damaged by bruising or fruit compression during harvest or
shipping. Also, blackberries that have a core temperature above 73°F at harvest tend to have a higher incidence of red drupelet than cooler fruit, especially during the early part of the season. Thus, a step-cooling process to lower fruit temperature is used to reduce the incidence of this disorder. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that produces brown, shrunken drupelets on infected blackberries (Figure 3). Infection occurs in the spring during warm, wet conditions. Pruning to enhance air circulation among plants and removal of old fruiting canes in the dormant season reduces the amount of overwintering inoculum in the planting. Also, weed control improves air flow through the planting during the growing season and helps reduce disease infection. An application of liquid lime sulfur (Sulforix) can also be applied to dormant blackberry buds just before they begin to produce new growth will control anthracnose. Blackberries infected with this disease are off-flavored and are unfit for sale. Contact your Jackson County University of Missouri Extension office if you have more questions about berry crops or other gardening topics- 816-482-5850.
Figure 1. White drupelet disorder on blackberry. Photo credit: Patrick Byers
Figure 2 Red, off-colored drupelets on blackberries caused by reversion. Photo credit: Patrick Byers
Figure 3. On left, brown, shrunken drupelets on a blackberry infected with anthracnose. On right, a noninfected fruit with dark purple drupelets. Photo credit: Patrick Byers
Four Home Maintenance Tips To Keep The Outdoors Outside (StatePoint) Even avid nature lovers will agree that not all aspects of the outdoors belong inside one’s home. While bugs, mud and allergens will sneak their way into interior spaces, the steps you take to manage these elements can keep your home more comfortable. Contain Allergens Your home should provide a respite from outdoor allergens. Unfortunately, pollen has a tendency to stick to skin, hair, shoes and clothes. Contain allergens by removing outerwear when you get home. If you spent the day in a grassy or forested area, you may also want to change your clothes or even take a shower before sitting on furniture. As far as cleaning is concerned, regularly shake out your welcome mat outside and away from the front door. Also, make a habit of regularly laundering items that touch your eyes, ears and nose most frequently, such as
bedding and towels. Combat Insect Invaders According to the Smithsonian Institution, there are over 200 million insects for each human on the planet! That’s a lot of critters, and despite your best efforts, some of them are going to enter your home, especially during peak bug season. With the National Pest Management Association’s bug barometer calling for high pest pressure from ants, roaches, mosquitoes and more this season, having a smart way to deal with insect invaders is a good idea. The majority of people are concerned with the ingredients found in conventional bug killer sprays. If that describes you, look for effective solutions made without harsh chemicals. For example, Zevo Insect Killer Sprays with BioSelective Technology work on a broad range of household insects, including ants, roaches, flies, fruit flies, gnats and spiders.
Make Floors Mud-Free Setting up a mudroom near the entrance of your home can help you combat footprints once and for all. If you don’t like being barefoot or want extra sole support, keep a pair of shoes nearby that you can swap into indoors. Just be sure that this pair never leaves the house. Have a dog? Wipe paws clean when you get home from walks, or better yet, try dog boots, which have the added bonus of protecting paws from sharp objects, hot pavement and other road hazards. iStock Photo
Banish Excess Moisture Too much moisture indoors is bad news. Damp spaces can promote growth and spread of viruses, bacteria and bugs, according to the American Lung Association. To keep your home’s interiors dry, fix up any leaks and keep humidity levels at 50 percent or less by adjusting controls on your air conditioner and/or by
running a dehumidifier. The Institute of Medicine cites good ventilation and moisture control as ways to help limit both mold and bug problems. With a few simple measures, you can manage all those peskier aspects of nature you’d rather not have indoors.
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Outdoors & Recreation
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Burr Oak Woods Offers Variety Of Free Outdoor Programs by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation Getting outside and summertime go together at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. Burr Oak Woods is offering a variety of free outdoor skills and nature programs in the weeks ahead at 1401 N.W. Park Road. The programs vary from families learning how to fish to learning about critters big and small. For example, Burr Oak Woods is offering a nature program entitled remarkable rodents on July 30th. But on August 28th, the program will be about Missouri’s largest predators, such as black bears. Check out the Little’s Fishing Tournament on July 31st for children ages 3-6. The family fishing program on August 8th gives participants the knowledge they need to go fishing and catch fish. MDC provides both instruction and tackle as participants try out angling skills in the Burr Oak Woods educational pond. A family canoeing and
kayaking session is planned. Nature programs will also focus on critters such as caterpillars and snakes. All programs require advance registration. They will be held outdoors. All social distancing protocols to prevent COVID-19 will be followed, and face coverings are strongly encouraged. Participants must bring their own water bottles, drinking fountains will not be available. Class sizes are limited for some sessions. To register for a program or to study the programs being offered at Burr Oak Woods and other MDC sites in the Kansas City region, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/ZXw. Click on a program listed on the pages and you will get more information such as appropriate ages and details about instruction. To learn more about Burr Oak Woods, visit https:// short.mdc.mo.gov/Zm5.
MDC's Burr Oak Woods Nature Center is offering a variety of free summer outdoor skills and nature programs, such as learning how to fish or paddle a canoe. Visit MDC's online events page to learn dates and details. Photo credit: MDC
MDC Offers Virtual Crankbait Class August 18th by Bill Graham, Missouri Department of Conservation Anglers can go fishing with lures of their own design if they don’t mind some wood carving, glue tasks, and fine-brush paint chores. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will offer a free virtual online class for making a balsa wood crankbait from 2:00pm – 4:00pm on Tuesday, Aug. 18th. The crankbait will be suitable for catching fish such as largemouth bass or panfish. This class is open to participants age 12 and older. Class size is limited to 20 participants. They are asked to register online by Aug. 2nd.
MDC will mail a lure kit to participants that includes materials such as balsa wood, eyelets, hooks, and a plastic crankbait bill. The kit will also include a list of tools or materials the participant must provide such as glue, pliers, and sandpaper. They may start carving on the lure prior to the class. Participants will be sent an email with a WebEx link just prior to the class startup. To register for this crankbait building class, visit MDC events signup at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Z8z.
MDC will offer an online virtual class on making a balsa-wood crankbait Aug. 18. Participants will be mailed a kit with lure making materials, and they must provide some tools and supplies such as pliers, glue, and paint. Registration is requested by Aug. 2. Photo credit: MDC
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Sports
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The Evolution Of Football’s Spread Offense by John Unrein The evolution of moving the football down the field has changed dramatically over the last 70 years. Especially, since 1980. Statista online reveals that the average passing yards per National Football League game from 1970 to 1979 was 156 yards per game. The rushing average per game in the NFL during the same decade was 139 yards per game. Fast forward to the recently completed decade (2010-2019) and passing yards per game in the NFL have increased significantly while rushing yards have declined moderately. From 2010 to 2019 the average passing yards per game in the NFL grew to 234 yards. An increase of 78 yards per game over the 1970’s. Concurrently, the average rushing yards per game in the NFL from 2010 to 2019 was 113 yards a game. A mild drop of 26 yards per game. The Kansas City Chiefs averaged 379 yards and 28 points per game during the regular season in route to their Super Bowl win over the San Francisco 49ers. This permitted the Chiefs to rank sixth in total yards (6,067) in the NFL during the 2019 season. The Chiefs run a West Coast Spread Offense. Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid has overseen the progression of this offense grow from his assistant coaching days with the Green Bay Packers through head coaching stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs. It is easy to pontificate as to why these offensive statistics have migrated in the direction they have. Quarterbacks are protected now more than they ever have been in football. Rules favor the offense regarding pass interference and defensive holding penalties. Practice time in pads has been reduced for player safety that lessens the amount of time offensive lineman get to practice the physicality of run blocking fundamentals. The list goes on. One element that should not be overlooked that helps explain the point explosion and offensive growth in the passing game of football is the spread offense. A football field is 160 feet or 53 and 1/3 yards wide and 300 feet or 100 yards between goal lines. That is a tremendous amount of space for a defense to have cover horizontally and vertically on the field. The implementation of three, four, and five wide receiver offensive formations pulls defenders out of the tackle box (the area on the line of scrimmage between the offensive tackles). Spread formations also permit offensive coaches to align players against defenders creating favorable matchups that can be exploited. Not to mention, the running lanes created for the offense in the way the defense adjusts to cover receivers. This often leads to quarterbacks and coaches at all levels of football doing simple math prior to the snap. It comes down to counting the number of
defenders inside and outside of the tackle box. A quarterback or the offensive coordinator from the sideline may audible to a running play because they outnumber the defense in the tackle box, giving them an advantage rushing the football. A passing advantage may also be found pre-snap for the offense due to a defender covering a preferred receiver by defensive alignment. This may include a linebacker matched up unfavorably against the speed and athleticism of a wide receiver. Furthermore, a safety can be pulled to the three receiver side of an offensive formation leaving a ton of real estate in the middle of the field or on the backside of the offense. Offenses all the way down to the high school level tend to have multiple route concepts (four verticals, flooding a zone with multiple receivers, running a rub route with two receivers to wall of a defender, etc.) they prefer to run against various defensive man and zone coverages. The game continues to migrate towards who can manipulate the use of space better, achieve more possessions in a game, and finding the fastest way to score points. Football in Eastern Jackson County boasts two coaches with more than 50 years of combined experience coaching high school football. David Allie is the head football coach of the Grain Valley Eagles. Greg Smith is the offensive coordinator for the Blue Springs South Jaguars. Both Allie and Smith are close friends, believe in the spread offense, and have paid their dues to win accolades and respect within the football coaching community. Allie took over the reigns of the Grain Valley Eagles Football program in 2014 after spending fourteen previous years at Raytown South High School as their head coach (including leading the Raytown South Cardinals squad to the 2009 state championship game). Allie was also recognized as the Kansas City Chiefs 2016 Missouri High School Coach of the Year while at Grain Valley and is fresh off leading the Eagles to the Class 4, District 7 Championship last season. Smith helped the Jaguars offense accumulate an average of 25.8 points a game in his first season at Blue Springs South. The Jaguars were also able to boast success late in the season with a Class 6 state playoff win over Holt. Smith has enjoyed previous achievement as a head coach at Plattsburg, Smithville, and Pleasant Hill, guiding each of those programs to playoff wins. Smith was rewarded for his efforts in 2018, when he was inducted into the Missouri High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. Both Allie and Smith offered their thoughts on football’s spread offense as it continues to evolve. “I don’t know if what we do is exactly
“I feel the spread offense gives you that freedom. I also feel that spread formations stretch the defense both horizontally and vertically, so there are natural seams created in the defense that can be exploited,” Grain Valley High School Head Football Coach David Allie said. “I am a fan of getting the ball to athletes in space. Also, by adding shifts and motions, you can create other seams to exploit while gaining a numbers advantage against one side of the defense.” Photo credit: John Overstreet the spread offense, but more a hybrid of philosophies. I’m a firm believer in running offensive schemes that fit the team’s personnel, not just dedication to a scheme regardless,” Allie said. “During my high school days, we ran the I-formation. At Raytown South as an assistant coach, we ran the I, and when I first took over as head coach there I was fascinated with and installed the Wing-T formation. However, the best traditional Wing-T teams always have a good tight end and I have not always been able to find one.” “Because some teams lack a tight end, and as offensive philosophies have generally evolved, many Wing-T concepts were adopted and morphed into spread formations.” Allie continued, “At Grain Valley and Raytown South we have not always been blessed with great size up front, but we have had quickness and athleticism. Spread formations can be adapted to use a variety of different running schemes.” “Elements of deception from the Wing-T and athleticism of the group you coach can be utilized to confuse the defense in the spread offense. It is also a very fan friendly offensive scheme – as these formations are what spectators see during college and pro games, and can provide offenses with big play potential, which leads to scoring more points.” The journey to the spread offense for Smith was one born more out of necessity. “My team had suffered some injuries in key positions which led us to make the change in season. What I found to be true was that the spread concepts matched well with my philosophies and
there was more space on the field because the defense was forced to spread out as well,” Smith said. Both Allie and Smith are old school in the splendor of observing battles in the trenches that result in positive rushing yards for an offense. Neither is oblivious to the benefits gained by making the opposing defense stretch to account for offensive players lined up all over the field. “I’ll have to admit, it is a thing of beauty to watch six or seven enormous lineman stand foot to foot while the quarterback hands off the football to a bruising 220 pound running back only to see the entire vanguard march down the field destroying everything in its path,” Allie said. “Unfortunately, I have never had the players to do that, so I try to adapt our scheme to what we have. I feel the spread offense gives you that freedom. I also feel that spread formations stretch the defense both horizontally and vertically, so there are natural seams created in the defense that can be exploited.” “I am a fan of getting the ball to athletes in space. Also, by adding shifts and motions, you can create other seams to exploit while gaining a numbers advantage against one side of the defense.” Smith agreed, “In my opinion, on of the most difficult things to do in the sport of football is tackling in the open field. By spreading the defense out and forcing them to defend the entire width of the field, it forces defenders to do exactly that.” “Offensively, we try to manipulate the ‘box.’ By the offense taking a player out of the box, whether it is tight end,
see OFFENSE page 11
Sports
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OFFENSE continued from page 10 running back, or both; the defense is forced to match that movement. This spreading out the defense allows for better running lanes for the ball carrier.” “If the defense does not spread out to match the formation, it gives the offense an advantage in the passing game. Essentially, spreading out the offensive formation puts certain defenders in a conflict, giving the offense the advantage.” The spread offense may sound like a no brainer for coaches looking to seek a winning edge. There are things that must be considered that are not always apparent on the surface if the move is made away from football’s traditional offenses. Any offensive line coach in the spread offense will likely tell you their number one stress is finding a player that can execute the shotgun snap consistently. Coaches like having their five best offensive lineman play up front and be plugged into a position. The spread offense may consist of one player who can get the shotgun snap back to the quarterback without sailing over his head, or dribbling along the ground, and their four other best offensive linemen. In a perfect world, one of your five best offensive lineman overall can also perform the shotgun snap successfully on a consistent basis. The spread offense also requires a team to be in great shape if they are going to get off a play every thirteen seconds after the ball is spotted for play by an official. Teams must commit to practicing and conditioning this way if they want to gain offensive possessions during a game to score more points. Quarterbacks must learn the skill of seeing the ball into their hands by feel or with their peripheral vision to gain the advantage of reading a defense down field on a pass play or the defensive end man on the line of scrimmage if they are to read what he’s doing prior to deciding to hand off the football (on a read option run). Additionally, quarterbacks must develop a clock on how long they can hold the football before it must be gone on a passing play. Typically, that’s four seconds or less. Something that is done naturally when a quarterback lines up
under center and performs a three or five step drop. The quarterback knows the ball should be out of their hand when the last step in their drop is completed. This meshes well with the natural time it takes for wide receivers to get into their routes. “The quarterback can survey the defense more cleanly lined up in shotgun. In the modern game of quarterback reads and RPO’s, the extra 4 to 5 yards of depth give the quarterback good angles of vision to make the decision to stress read defenders,” Allie said. “We allow our quarterback to survey the defense and make audibles based on their (the defenses) alignment to the play we have called, again looking to put our players in the best position to be successful. I also feel it makes it easier for the quarterback in the passing game because there is more time to see the overall coverage schemes for both pre and post snap reads and footwork is easier in drops.” Allie concluded, “the big disadvantage is the potential for error on the snap. The snap must be consistent, and the quarterback has to make sure he handles whatever ball comes to him. Adding weather issues like rain or snow creates another obstacle. Our centers and quarterbacks need to have reps snapping before, during, and after practice to make sure snaps are not an issue.” “Another disadvantage is that the deceptiveness of the quarterback hiding the ball from the defense is almost nil in the shotgun. You have to find ways to be deceptive, but that is much more difficult than the quarterback turning around from under center with his back to the defense hiding the football.” Smith concurred with Allie’s assessment on the advantages and disadvantages of the shotgun. “The biggest advantage to the shotgun is that it increases the quarterback’s ability to see the defense. From the snap of the ball to the completion of the play, the quarterback is able to have the entire defense in his line of vision. Another advantage to the shotgun is time. The moment that the quarterback catches the snap, he is
Greg Smith, Blue Springs South Jaguars Football Offensive Coordinator. Photo Credit: Greater Kansas City Football Coaches Association. immediately at a depth that would take a quarterback at least three steps to attain if he were under center,” Smith said. “The major disadvantage of the shotgun is the center-quarterback exchange (the snap). The exchange is less consistent than if the quarterback was under center. This inconsistency is magnified if there are adverse weather conditions. Another disadvantage is short yardage situations. The actual football must physically travel backwards five yards before moving forward. That is not ideal in a fourth-and -one situation, or on the goal line.” The final thoughts Allie and Smith shared were regarding two universal truths about football, being up tempo offensively can wear down your opponent and the game of football is still won or lost at the line of scrimmage, even in the era of the spread offense. “Coach Smith likes to be up tempo all the time. I like to use it situationally. It creates and advantage in that you usually see a more generic defense as they don’t have time to huddle, substitute personnel, or stem and blitz,” Allie said. “However, listening to Coach Carpino (Grain Valley’s Defensive Coordinator), if the offense is unsuccessful by having a
quick ‘three and out,’ it makes your own defense have to be on the field longer without needed rest, which actually is the opposite of the goal and hurts your own team.” “We like to use up tempo for a series of plays (usually scripted, but sometimes a whole series), especially after a turnover, to gain advantage over a tired opponent, and to change momentum or ignite some excitement.” Smith provided the final word with his thoughts, “The sport of football is very intricate with a lot of moving parts on every play. As complicated as we try to make it as coaches, the game really comes down to two basic things: blocking and tackling.” “In addition to that, most games are won or lost in two major areas: winning the line of scrimmage and the turnover battle. It doesn’t matter what offensive philosophy you use, winning at the line of scrimmage is the key to having a successful offense. Your team is going to struggle to score points if the offensive line is unable to create creases for the ball carrier in the run game of if they can’t keep the defense from hitting the quarterback in the passing game.”
Community Calendar Friday, July 24, 2020
Wednesday, August 12, 2020
Grain Valley High School Graduation Commencement Ceremony University of Central Missouri, Warrensburg
Planning & Zoning Commission 6:30pm Visit www.cityofgrainvalley.org for meeting location/dial-in information.
Monday, July 27, 2020
Monday, August 24, 2020
Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main
First Day of School Grain Valley Schools
September 11—12, 2020 July 28-29, 2020 Back-to-School Immunizations On-Site Kindergarten Clinics Sponsored by Jackson County Health Dept. Grain Valley North Middle School Register online at www.jacohd.org/ events
Tuesday, August 4, 2020 Primary Election Polls open 6:00am—7:00pm
Monday, August 10, 2020 Board of Aldermen Meeting 7:00pm Grain Valley City Hall, 711 S Main
Grain Valley Fair www.grainvalleyfair.com
Saturday, September 26, 2020 City Wide Clean Up Event www.cityofgrainvalley.org
Tuesday, November 3, 2020 General Election Polls open 6:00am—7:00pm Visit www.jcebmo.org to request a mailin or absentee ballot.
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