Valley News August 2, 2018
www.grainvalleynews.com
Vol. 1, No. 7
FREE
Missouri Voters Face Choice on Proposition A One of the choices Missourians will face when they head to the polls on Tuesday, August 7 is a yes or no vote on the Proposition A Referendum. Prop A’s path to the ballot is a complicated one. Missouri became a right-to-work state when the legislature passed Senate Bill 19 in 2017. This legislation directed that no person can be required to join a labor union or pay dues to a labor union as a condition of employment. The road for this bill to become law gained steam with the 2016 election of former Republican Governor Eric Greitens. He replaced sitting Democrat Jay Nixon, and Nixon had opposed and vetoed a previous attempt to pass right-towork legislation in Missouri. Greitens election along with the Republican majority in both the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives led to the Show-Me -State becoming the 28th right-towork state in the union. The current issue is being presented to voters as part of the referendum process in Missouri. According to the State of Missouri Website and Ballotpedia, certifying a veto referendum for the ballot requires a number of signatures equivalent to 5 percent of the votes cast in the most recent gubernatorial election in six of the eight congressional districts. This means that the minimum
number of valid signatures required was 100, 126. Signatures for a veto referendum petition must be turned in within 90 days following the adjournment of the legislative session in which the law was passed. This business is conducted through John R. Ashcroft’s Secretary of State office. The citizen-initiated process has met the requirements to address their approval of a law passed by the legislature and signed by the governor. A “yes” vote on Proposition A upholds the contested legislation and leaves Missouri as a right-towork state. A “no” vote on Proposition A overturns the contested legislation and returns Missouri to its previous state of allowing payment of labor union dues as a condition of employment.
to avoid paying the same taxes families and small businesses must pay. Right-to-work laws give even more power to big corporations at a time when CEO pay has grown 364 times higher than what the average worker makes.”
Economic Policy Institute (EPI) research shows that “wages are three percent lower, or about $1,500 less a year in Right-to-Work states (Protect MO. Families claims that this number is even higher with a see PROP A page 2
Good News
Missourians for Workers Freedom argue that “Missouri’s Right to Work law not only empowers the individual worker, but creates jobs, grows wages, and attracts businesses to the state. Today, union bosses and their liberal allies are working to forge a smear campaign against Right to Work, hoping their dirty tricks can stop it.” We are Missouri counters that “right-to-work is being promoted by a well-coordinated network of outof-state billionaires, super PAC’s, and corporate special interest groups that are down-sizing, shipping jobs overseas, and hiding profits offshore
Local Wrestler Excels On and Off The Mat Sevreign Aumua, known as Sevi to friends and family, is a 12 year old multisport athlete from Grain Valley. She plays soccer for KC Metro League Hammers, football for the Blue Springs Gators, wrestles with the Fort Osage Mat Club. Sevi was the third girl to win a state wrestling title against boys but the first female to win in a full 16-man bracket.
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Local News
Jim Kissick Selected Citizen of the Year Jim Kissick will be honored as Grain Valley’s Citizen of the Year at the Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s Toast of the Towns Gala on September 29, 2018. Honorees are selected by local mayors; Mayor Mike Todd nominated Kissick to receive the award this year. Kissick will be recognized for his generosity and concern for community, which expands beyond the borders of Grain Valley. He is the President of Kissick Construction and a fourth generation Kissick in the business. Kissick Construction volunteered to be part of a project in Kansas City in which the company assisted in the demolition of more than 75 unstable and dangerous, abandoned homes. Kissick Construction helped change the face of Main Street in
Grain Valley in recent years by redeveloping buildings and making significant investments in properties in the area. In addition to the investments and improvements he has made to properties throughout the community, he supports economic development by donating office space to the Grain Valley Partnership (a combined effort of the former Economic Development Corporation and Chamber of Commerce). Kissick has assisted the City in prepping the land at Sni-A-Bar Farm serving as controller of the site intended for the construction of the new Mid-Continent Library. He has coordinated an engineered fill to create a shovel-ready site upon the completion of the project. Jim is an active supporter of the Grain Valley School District Foundation Scholarship fund, the NAIA small college basketball tournament held in Kansas City each March, and for the past 10 years, MU Tiger football and basketball radio broadcasts in the KC area. Jim has served on numerous boards in the
Valley News Grain Valley News is a free community paper, published weekly on Thursdays online at www.grainvalleynews.com and on the 1st and 3rd weeks of the month in print. Cory Unrein | Co-Owner/Publisher John Unrein | Co-Owner/Production Manager Cathy Allie | Staff Writer, Proofreader Diana Luppens, Switch Focus Studios | Contributing Photographer Mail: PO Box 2972 Grain Valley MO 64029 Phone: 816.809.7984 Email: news@grainvalleynews.com Sign up for our weekly emails and join us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (@grainvalleynews).
Kansas City area, including 17 years with St. Teresa’s Academy and the Heavy Constructors Association. He is currently the President of the National Utility Contractors Association. The Toast of the Towns Gala will be held on September 29, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center. Tickets for the Gala can be purchased on our website at www.thcf.org/Gala. Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) is a public charity committed to improving area communities by promoting and serving private giving for the public good.
PROP A
Founded in 1982, THCF serves the region with assets of more than $45 million and annual grants surpassing $3 million. In addition to donor services, the Foundation provides asset development for nonprofit organizations, awards grants to nonprofits, assists organizations in planned giving and serves as a leader in addressing community issues. For more information on charitable giving, visit www.thcf.org or call THCF at 816.836.8189.
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average median household income of $8,740 less in right-to-work states). EPI also states that workers in right-to-work states were less likely to have employer-sponsored health insurance and pension coverage. This did not just apply to union members, but to all employees in a state. Where unions are strong, compensation increases even for workers not covered by any union contract, as nonunion employers face competitive pressure to match union standards. Likewise, when unions are weakened by right-towork laws, all of a state’s workers feel the impact.” The Heritage Foundation offers opposing research. “Average wages in right-to-work states are indeed slightly lower than in non-right-towork states. This occurs because almost every Southern state has a right-to-work law and the South has
a lower cost of living. Studies that control for differences in costs of living find workers in states with voluntary dues have no lower – and possibly slightly higher – real wages than workers in states with compulsory dues.” Campaign spending has been high. Proposition A Referendum campaign contributions have exceeded the $10 million mark combined in Missouri for both sides according to Ballotpedia. With the “no” side outspending the “yes” side by a two to one margin. Among the generous contributors to the “no” side have been the Missouri AFL-CIO and the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America. Generous donations on the “yes” side have come from the nonprofit A New Missouri as well as Richard Uihlein, co-founder of Uline, Inc., and megadonor to conservative causes.
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Valley Community Church Supplies District Kindergarteners Parents with incoming Kindergarteners can check school supply shopping off their back to school to-do lists, thanks to a local effort by Valley Community Church. For the second year, all incoming Kindergarteners at each of the four elementary schools in the Grain Valley School District will have their school supplies provided by the church. All items on each school’s supply list will be provided for Kindergarteners, except for student backpacks and lunch boxes. Pastor Jason Williams explains the idea stemmed from a similar project considered at Epic Church in Independence. The pastor at Epic Church encouraged Williams to consider launching the project in
Grain Valley, and the members of his young church felt called to do so. After discussing logistics with the leadership at Grain Valley Schools, the church launched their program last year. “It’s about being a blessing to the community. It is one of our core values as a church”, Williams explained. Williams explains this is a yearlong project coordinated by a dedicated army of volunteers, who have become expert bargain shoppers and organizers. “I communicate with Dr. Brad Welle (Deputy Superintendent, School and Community Services) throughout the process regarding the number of students expected so
our volunteers can begin planning for the new year.”, Williams explains. Once they have a handle on the number of students to be served, volunteers take the supply lists for each school and develop a spreadsheet to assess their supply needs. Williams states that local businesses have been very helpful in coordinating bulk purchases and church members are adept at finding the best prices for supplies. The church works with each individual school to coordinate the drop-off of supplies the first few weeks of August, which enables teachers to organize supplies in their classrooms well before the first day of school. Williams says the teachers have
expressed their appreciation of the program, as it helps ensure all students are equipped with the supplies they need to have a successful school year. The church also communicates with teachers regarding their specific classroom supply needs and does their best to provide for these needs. “We’ve got some really great teachers in Grain Valley. It’s worth it to us to be a blessing to them.” The church plans to continue the program as a part of their overall mission to serve the community. For more information on Valley Community Church and their annual school supply effort, visit http:// www.grainvalley.church.
Police Blotter The following information is derived from the Grain Valley Police Department daily calls for service log for the week of July 18-24, 2018. July 18, 2018 1300 Block Broadway St 100 Block Main St 1200 Block Scenic Dr 200 Block Walnut St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Buckner Tarsney Rd 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 100 Block Sunny Ln 100 Block Main St 1200 Block Scenic Dr 1200 Block Stockman Ct
July 19, 2018 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Golfview 100 Block Eagles Parkway 1900 Block Eagles Parkway 700 Block Main St 200 Block Locust 700 Block Main St 1200 Block Scenic Dr 1300 Block Elmwood 700 Block Main St 2300 Block Dillingham Rd Dillingham & Pink Hill Rd 2300 Block Dillingham Rd BB Hwy & AA Hwy 900 Block Sandy Ln 700 Block Main St 300 Block Hudson 1800 Block Elmwood July 20, 2018 100 Block Royer 700 Block Main St 700 Block Squire Ct 200 Block Main St 300 Block James Rollo 1100 Block Willow 400 Block Walnut East City Limits
Stand by to Prevent Suspicious Activity Disturbance Suspicious Activity Citizen Contact Warrant Surrender Alarm Stand by to Prevent Hit and Run Civil Dispute Suspicious Activity Disturbance Agency Assist (Belton PD)
Warrant Conf. Area Check Disturbance Citizen Contact Stealing Citizen Contact Citizen Contact Runaway Juvenile Animal At Large Warrant Surrender Agency Assist (JCSO) Agency Assist (JCSO) Agency Assist (JCSO) MV Accident Found Property Stealing Agency Assist (BPD) Alarm
Funeral Escort Citizen Contact Alarm Suspicious Person Alarm Animal At Large Disturbance Agency Assist(OGPD)
July 21, 2018 700 Block Whitestone Dr 700 Block Main St 1000 Block Ephraim Dr 500 Block Willow 700 Block Main St 600 Block Jefferson 400 Block 24th Terr 500 Block Hickory Ridge 1000 Block RD Mize 700 Block Main St 1200 Block Lonestar Ct 1000 Block RD Mize 2100 Block Sweetgum 700 Block Main St 900 Block Stonebrook Yennie/Thieme 1200 Block Persimmon Dr 300 Block 1st St 400 Block Broadway 400 Block Oakwood Ln Garden/Willow 1400 Block Jaclyn Dr 1200 Block SW Eagle Pkwy 400 Block 1st Street July 22, 2018 600 Block Walnut 500 Block Magnolia Cir 1500 Block Hilltop Ln 1100 Block Long Dr 700 Block Nelson 100 Block Rock Creek Ln 1300 Block NW Willow Dr 700 Block Main St 200 Block Hannah Ct 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Golfview Dr July 23, 2018 700 Block Main St x 2 700 Block Main St 500 Block Magnolia Cir
Stealing Stealing Alarm ATV'S on Roadway Citizen Contact Alarm Agency Assist(OGPD) Animal Complaint Stealing Check the Well Being Stealing Found Property Noise Complaint Citizen Contact Alarm Suspicious Vehicle 911 Hang Up Agency Assist(OGPD) Agency Assist(OGPD) Stealing from MV ATV'S on Roadway Noise Complaint Citizen Contact Agency Assist(OGPD)
Animals at Large Stealing Motor Vehicle Theft Motor Vehicle Theft Leaving Scene of MV Accident Check the Well Being Check the Well Being Fraudulent Use of Credit Device Suspicious Activity Suspicious Person Suspicious Activity
700 Block Main St 600 Block Whitestone Dr 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 700 Block Main St 1100 Block Long Dr 700 Block Main St 900 Block Shorthorn 700 Block Main St 1500 Block Jaclyn Dr Par/Scenic 800 Block Thieme
Identity Theft Civil Standby Warrant Service Found Property Recovered Bicycle Found Property Recovered Bicycle Citizen Contact Harassment Disturbance Citizen Contact Alarm Suspicious Vehicle Motor Vehicle Theft
July 24, 2018 600 Block Joseph Cir 700 Block Whitney 400 Block Graystone 700 Block Main St 500 Block Broadway 1500 Block Pecan Pl Country Hill/Creek Ridge
Check the Well Being Civil Standby Parking Complaint Citizen Contact Runaway Juvenile Suspicious Vehicle Suspicious Vehicle
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Citizen Contact Found Property Stealing from Motor Vehicle
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Health & Wellness
Six Tips for a Heart Healthy Lifestyle by Dr. Chad Sharky, Saint Luke’s Primary Care Independence The numbers are staggering. One in three Americans will die from heart attack, stroke or cardiovascular disease each year. Heart disease is the number one killer of women, claiming more lives each year than all cancer deaths combined. The good news is, if we take ownership of our heart health and make simple lifestyle changes, we can dramatically reduce our number one health threat. We encourage you to implement these simple, six heart healthy tips into your everyday lifestyle. Eat healthy. This means foods without nutrition labels. Think about the foods along the perimeter of the grocery store. Remember to eat foods your body needs, not limiting
to only what you want. This requires healthier, fresh foods in your home and less processed foods. Don’t smoke. It’s one of the most lethal risk factors and is the greatest predictor that your first heart attack could lead to sudden death. Quitting can be difficult, but many strategies exist to help. Talk to your doctor or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to help get started. Stay active. We used to think that we would have to spend hours in the gym exercising. This is not the case. Just be active. Get your steps in during the day and get up, get moving. Start slow and gradually increase intensity. Talk to your doctor about exercises that are best suited for you.
Limit alcohol. The statistics suggest that we should not exceed one to two alcoholic beverages a day for men or exceed one alcoholic beverage a day for women. You don’t have to give it up completely, but indulge in moderation. Maintain an ideal body weight. Take your height and your weight and calculate your body mass index or your BMI. Go to saintlukeskc.org/bmi to figure out your BMI so you can know your ideal body mass index and be able to maintain it. Set goals that are reasonable; if you need to lose weight, focus on losing 5% of your weight at a time. Avoid prolonged sitting. Sitting is the new smoking. We challenge everyone to not sit more than 30
Roasted Veggie- Hummus Wraps Serves 6
Pack a Better Sandwich by Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD August is National Sandwich Month and a great time to start thinking about back-to-school routines. One of those routines is packing lunch boxes and at the cornerstone of every lunch box is a sandwich. In fact, a survey found that 74% of all bagged lunches for school include a sandwich. Sandwiches are popular in lunchboxes for good reasons. A sandwich is convenient, versatile and can provide good quality nutrition. The bases of a healthy sandwich should be whole grain and lean protein. Adding healthy toppings is another way to sneak in more nutrition. Start with these basics, add a little creativity and willingness to try new combinations and your kids will be packing (and eating) a nutrientfilled and tasty lunch! Choose whole grains. • Have your child help pick his/her favorite-tasting whole grain bread. • Pack a whole grain pita pocket with the fixings on the side. Try shredded turkey and carrots with lettuce. Pack a light salad dressing as topping.
minutes at a time. It doesn’t have to be pretty, just move. Partner up with a friend or coworker to keep each other in check. If you are disciplined and adopt these six tips in your everyday life you can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke by 95 percent. By doing just two of these, you can reduce your risk by 92 percent. We pride ourselves on the care we bring to the community’s hearts through the Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute. To make an appointment with Dr. Sharky or one of our physicians at Saint Luke’s Primary Care – Independence, please call 816-2515200.
¾ cup hummus
• Put your favorite sandwich ingredients into a whole wheat tortilla and roll it up for a change of pace. Light veggie cream cheese or light Laughing Cow cheese are great tortilla spreads. • Use cookie cutters to make shapes in the bread and pack few minisandwiches. • Make “cracker sandwiches” with whole grain crackers, different cheeses and veggies packed separately so your child can assemble at lunch time. • Use mini whole grain bagels or deli flats to make great sandwiches. Go for lean protein. • Choose lean lunchmeat that is lower in sodium when possible. • Combine peanut butter with bananas, apple slices, dried apples, raisins or apricots. • Try almond or sunflower butters as a great butter alternative to peanut butter. Try topping the butter with slivered almonds and dried cranberries. • Use hummus as a spread or throw chickpeas into your pita pocket. • Make salad sandwiches with hardboiled eggs or low-sodium canned
tuna. • Turn leftovers into a sandwich use chicken breast or meatloaf, and serve with a side of BBQ sauce. Top your sandwich with taste and nutrition. • Top your sandwich with a variety of veggies! Cucumber, lettuce, tomato, sliced peppers, grated carrot, baby spinach, pickles - the options are endless. • Use avocado or hummus as your spread instead of butter or mayonnaise. • Use a vegetable peeler to slice cucumber, carrots and zucchini into thin ribbons for sandwich fillings. • Try fruit toppings on spreads and in salad sandwiches. Golden raisins, sliced grapes or apple slices work wonderfully in chicken salad sandwiches.
Tracey Shaffer, RDN, LD is a registered dietitian at the Blue Springs Hy-Vee. She can be reached at tshaffer@hy-vee.com. The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.
3 medium carrots, peeled 2 medium beets, scrubbed and peeled 1 small white onion 1 cup kale leaves, torn 1 cup red cabbage, shredded 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 teaspoon honey 6 sprouted-grain tortillas Directions: 1. Cut carrots into sticks. Cook carrots in small amount of lightly salted boiling water in a medium saucepan for 10 minutes. Cool. Cook beets, covered in lightly salted boiling water for 30 minutes. Drain. Transfer beets to a large bowl of ice water. Cool. 2. Cut beets and onions into wedges. Place kale and cabbage in a medium bowl. Combine vinegar, oil, and honey for vinaigrette. Lightly toss half of the vinaigrette with kale mixture. 3. Spread the veggies on a sheet pan and roast in a 400 degree oven for 30 -40 minutes 4. Wrap spouted-gran wraps in damp paper towels. Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute. To assemble wraps, spread 2 tablespoons of hummus on each tortilla. Top with kale mixture, carrots, beets and onion; drizzle with remaining vinaigrette. For each wrap, fold bottom edge of tortilla over filling. Fold in one side. Then starting from the folded bottom edge, roll up the tortilla.
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Skip the Scale by Sally Whitaker Stepping on the scale every morning or evening is a habit many people have. Chasing a specific goal weight is also a popular way for some to determine how successful they are. The number you see when you step on the scale every morning should not dictate how you feel about yourself. There is SO much more to being healthy than a specific weight. While tracking weight can be helpful for some aspects of overall health, it is actually much more beneficial, and motivating, to look beyond pounds when working towards and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Taking body measurements and just paying attention to how your clothing feels are better indicators of a fitness and nutrition program working well. Instead of making it a goal to lose 10 pounds, make a goal to lose an attainable amount of
inches. A normal, healthy amount to lose is anywhere from ¼ to 2 inches per month, per body region. Just as you wouldn’t expect to drop 30
Waist: the thickest part of your lower torso/pelvis. Thighs: the halfway point between your hip bone and knee.
While tracking weight can be helpful for some aspects of overall health, it is actually much more beneficial, and motivating, to look beyond pounds when working towards and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. pounds in one month, the average person will not be able to lose 5 or more overall inches in that time. Interested in taking your measurements? Here are some helpful areas to measure and guidelines: Chest: directly along the logo line of a t-shirt. Waist: look in the mirror and measure the smallest part of your torso. Navel: even with your belly button.
Arm: the halfway point between the top of your shoulder and elbow. Use a flexible tape measure and wrap around snugly, but not tight. Take measurements no more than once a month. It can be just as frustrating as weighing yourself if you take inches every day or every week. Make sure you write it down. You may think you will remember, but you won't. Every ¼ inch counts, don't round up or down.
Tracking your measurements is also helpful if you are not just wanting to lose weight but are also interested in toning and building muscle. You will be able to see your waist and hips get smaller, while your upper arms or legs may get bigger. It’s just as fun to see gains in muscle mass as it is to see loss in fat!
You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting this or any other fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. Do not start this fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it. Sally Whitaker is a Pilates and Yoga instructor with 15 years of experience teaching group classes and private clientele, primarily in Independence, MO. During the summer months you can find her teaching Sunset Yoga at Armstrong Park in Grain Valley.
Back to School Blues Affect Dogs As Well by Jess Rush, K-9 Diversity Dog Training
Your freedom days, hours of sunlight and late nights are slowly coming to an end. You are now running around getting everything together for the beginning of the new school year. Making sure the kids are getting to bed on time and not sleeping until noon. Parents also have to get up early to now prep school lunches and of course make sure kids are getting up on time. But did you know, dogs need time to adjust their schedule too? Many dogs do not do well with quick, drastic schedule changes. Big changes can cause many behavioral issues with our furry companions, chewing furniture, urinating or eliminating in the house or crate, attempting to escape the house or their crate, barking excessively and showing signs of restlessness or anxiety. Don’t worry, we’re here to give
you helpful tips to help your dog beat the back to school blues. Slowly adjust their schedules Start getting your dog’s morning routine in line with the kids. They now have to get up, do their business and eat much earlier. If bedtimes are also going to be early, make sure your dog knows this; the last thing we want is a rambunctious dog ready to play as everyone else is getting ready to curl up into bed. Your dog has gotten used to always having someone to play with, to snuggle with or to just exist with and hangout. Instead of waiting until the day of to go from a couple hours to 8 hours alone/crated start slowly increasing those times frames. Instead of leaving your dog alone in a quiet house, consider a DVD/CD (there are some made just for dog relaxation & anxiety) or a box fan to give your dog some white noise in the background. Keep them busy and stimulated Make sure your dog has lots of good chew toys to keep them occupied while you’re away. One of our favorites is a Kong (or similar toy) stuffed with peanut butter – maybe a few yummy treats or pieces of kibble – frozen and then
given to our dogs when we leave. Chewing is a natural energy burner and a natural way to mentally stimulate your dog. If your dog cannot have peanut butter, you can try low fat yogurt, no sodium chicken broth, goat’s milk, pumpkin, or any other liquid they love. Make sure any bone or toy you do leave with them is safe for them to have unattended. Schedule “dog” time in your daily routines Don’t forget to leave time in your morning schedule do take the dog on a walk, even a brisk 15-20 minute walk is better than nothing. Go out in the backyard and play a good game of fetch. This will give them a good outlet to get our some of that energy and not be quite as restless. When scheduling practices, concerts, or meetings, also schedule play dates with your dog. “Basketball practice 3-4pm”, “Play fetch with Fido 4:30-5pm”, and “Dinner at 6pm”. Have your dog participate in your kids study time. This is a great one to help motivate your kids as well as give your dog a little extra loving. Dog “school” Consider taking your dog to a doggy day care, where they can run and play with other dogs. Hire a dog
walker, dog sitter, or even a dog trainer to come over halfway through the day and let your dog out and to get some exercise and stimulation. If you have the flexibility in your work schedule, drop by on your lunch break and play a quick game of fetch in the backyard. Don’t forget your dog needs time too While your family has been away all day, your dog has been eagerly waiting your return. Even though you may have had a long day at work and just want to sit down and relax, don’t forget to play with and exercise your dog first. A nice calm walk around the neighborhood is a great way to unwind, get the family together, and spend time with your dog.
Here at K9 Diversity we’re always here to help – do you have any questions you would like answered? Or maybe a topic you would like us to cover? If so, feel free to email your comments to k9diversitydogtraining@gmail.com and we’ll respond in future articles.
Business News
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Randomly Beautiful Opens Downtown on August 11th Hi! I’m Regina Woods – wife, dedicated mom of 4 great kids, NICU nurse, and lover of all things crafty and creative! There’s just something so gratifying and relaxing about taking material like a plain ol’ plank of wood or an old worn-down piece of furniture and turning it into something uniquely beautiful. It’s my stress relief. Some people get a runner’s high, I get a crafting high. I also love to see and hear about other people’s ideas and creations too, so I thought “Hey, wouldn’t it be fun to open a storefront where people could gather together and let their creative juices flow?” And so that’s just what I did. Randomly Beautiful is a DIY, make-and-take home décor boutique located at 101 W. Walnut St, right here in Grain Valley! I will carry the materials for an assortment of projects that you can craft and proudly display in your home or give as gifts. Don’t think you’re a crafty person? You can absolutely do it! You will have guidance throughout your project, so you aren’t left feeling unsure of what to do. Remember, this should be fun and relaxing and not meant to create anxiety! Project choices will be changing regularly and will include things such as wreaths, pillow covers, clocks, signs….and I could go on and on. During the daytime, I would love to have you stop in and make something. Wondering what you will do with the kids? I’m a mom. I get it. Just bring them along. We have a play area in the shop to keep them entertained while you get some of that well-deserved “you” time. And to make things even more fun, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings I will host group events with snacks and refreshments (Friday and
Saturday evenings are BYOB and for 21 and up only). What’s better than yummy snacks, drinks, crafting and the good company of your friends?! I’m super excited about this new adventure in my life and I’m really happy to be doing it in my hometown! My husband, the kids, and I moved to Grain Valley a little over 5 years ago and we are really glad this is where we landed. I love everything from our neighbors, to the schools, the small-town feel and the opportunity for people like me to pursue a dream. I’m so grateful to be a part of our up-and-coming little downtown area. If you haven’t taken the time to check out the other local businesses and their owners, you should! Shop local and support your community!!! I hope to see you at Randomly Beautiful’s grand opening on Saturday August 11 with a ribbon cutting at 11am. I will be running a 25% discount for all who sign up that Saturday for any group event held in the month of August! Come on out and see what we’re all about!
Regina Woods, owner of Randomly Beautiful, will open the doors to her new downtown business on August 11th with a grand opening celebration.
Sponsored advertisement.
Grain Valley Partnership Legislative Luncheon August 14, 2018 OOIDA 1 OOIDA Drive, Grain Valley
11:30am Networking 12:00pm Lunch For more info and to register:
www.growgrainvalley.org.
Business News is provided weekly by the Grain Valley Partnership, whose mission is to be a leader in the growth of Grain Valley. The Grain Valley Partnership is located at 1450 SW Eagles Parkway, and can be reached by phone, 816-443-5162 or via email at info@growgrainvalley.org.
www.growgrainvalley.org
Community Voices
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Truman Heartland Community Foundation Receives Regional Leadership Award by Phil Hanson, President and CEO Truman Heartland Community Foundation I am constantly amazed by the progress that can be made when groups of likeminded individuals come together for a common goal. For the past seven years, your Community Foundation has been working tirelessly with our Community for All Ages Coalition to address the issues facing our growing retirement population. Since its conception in October of 2011, the Community for All Ages Coalition has worked “to ensure our Eastern Jackson County Community is collaboratively and proactively working to prepare for the challenges and opportunities created by a doubling of the age 65+ population in our community.” On June 8, your Community Foundation was honored with a Regional Leadership Award at the annual Mid-America Regional Council Regional Assembly for our work involving the Community for All Ages Coalition. It was my honor to be
joined on stage at this event by three dedicated volunteers who have provided critical leadership to this effort, Cindy Cavanah, Barbara Koirtyohann and Karen Bartz. We were honored to receive this recognition. Over the last seven years the Coalition has made great strides in our work to create a community for all ages. Creating opportunity is the most visible component of the Coalition’s mission. Every month in Eastern Jackson County, 500 Baby Boomers reach age 65. There is an untapped resource in those talented individuals, folks who have more time than ever to devote to volunteering with nonprofits, local governments and other civic groups as they move into retirement. We launched our “Boomers Get Connected” project last October with the goal of connecting 600 Baby Boomers in our community with opportunities to utilize their time and talents as volunteers. Not only will it be good for the organizations where they are volunteering, but it
will also allow these Boomers the opportunity to stay active and engaged in their community as they enter retirement. I encourage anyone interested in learning more about the program to visit our website at www.thcf.org/BoomersGet-Connected for more information. The Coalition has also focused a great deal of time and energy in partnership with the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC) and its KC Communities for All Ages Initiative. With the help of our Coalition members, we are proud to say that four of our local communities have now met the standards set by MARC’s program to be recognized as Communities for All Ages. Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Blue Springs and Independence have all achieved the Bronze recognition level and Lee’s Summit and Independence are working on the Silver level and then are going for the Gold. We are also pleased to announce that MARC’s Age Mastery Program will be provided for older adults at five locations in our area this year. One of the toughest challenges facing our communities is the lack of transportation for older adults who
cannot drive. Our region is one of many across the country where not having a car limits one’s ability to get where you need to go. Your Community Foundation has been working closely with the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to create and build new options with a current focus on transportation to get needed health care services and stay healthy. The local hospitals have joined in this work and are working with us as we explore solutions. We are optimistic about the change we can enact through this partnership. Receiving this Regional Leadership award was a special moment for those on the Coalition to reflect on the change our community has seen through their efforts. We are humbled to receive this recognition and accept this award knowing there is still much work to be done. To the members of the Coalition, the more than 50 organizations, government agencies, and nonprofits who have helped make this possible, thank you. We look forward to what else we can accomplish by coming together to build a Community for All Ages.
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Sports
Grain Valley Cheerleaders Focus on Teamwork Delanne Carlson, beginning her 11th year as head coach of the Grain Valley High School cheerleading team, faces a full schedule this fall and winter. But she is excited about the upcoming school year and the team’s focus on working together as a team. Carlson states, “This year’s Varsity team has a very high ability level. Everyone tumbles, all are capable of successfully completing complicated stunt sequences in the high difficulty range, they’ve been working hard on their sideline jump, motion and dance skills, and they have lots of energy. But there are some unique challenges and variables we’ve not had to work through before.” The Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association (MCCA) voted to move the Regional Competition from the summer to November, in an effort to allow students and coaches to have more time off during summer break. Carlson states the team has enjoyed working on preparatory skills this summer with less than half of the typical summer time commitment. But, as Carlson explains, “Regionals will now be held in November, which is also the end of football season and the beginning of basketball season, so keeping up with all of our sideline commitments while preparing to compete and keeping the primary focus on academics could be a challenge.” The state competition will be held in December, and the varsity team plans to attend NCA High School Nationals in Dallas in January. The team’s motto for 2018-19, “We rise by lifting others!”, emphasizes their focus on working together as a
The 2018-19 Grain Valley High School Cheerleading Team’s motto is “We Rise by Lifting Others”. Seated (L to R): Dakota Vogel, Lily Pederson, Standing (L to R): Liz Swafford, Delanie Limpic, Kailyn Duett, Alyssa Luppens
team. Carlson explains, “It’s always important to work on individual skills, but there is no individual on the team who can reach our goal of performing a clean, flawless competition routine, without the help of their teammates. It requires working well together every step of the way.” Given the challenges the team faces this season, Carlson believes this is the perfect year to focus on helping each other become successful. “Shifting the focus away from ourselves and on to the bigger picture is also a great life lesson. We
can accomplish so much more in life when we are able to work in harmony with others.” Carlson states the team is very appreciative of the community’s enthusiasm during games. In addition to cheering along with the team, the community can support cheerleaders by participating in their fundraising events this year. The Little Eagles Cheer & Dance Clinic will be held September 24th, with a football pregame performance on September 28th. The clinic is open to Kindergarten through 5th grade students in any
Grain Valley Wrestlers Compete in Fargo Grain Valley wrestlers Caleb Benshoof, Drake Tipton, and Jaden Worthington participated in the 2018 United States Marine Corps Cadet & Junior Freestyle and Greco Wrestling National Championships in Fargo, North Dakota July 14th – 20th. The boys left on July 12th with other wrestlers representing the Missouri National team. Coach Chad Benshoof and Grain Valley head coach Jesse Whitson are members of the Missouri National Team coaching staff.
district. It is the biggest fundraiser for the team and provides an opportunity to introduce the next generation to the sport of cheerleading. Registration forms will be available soon; inquiries can be emailed to dcarlson@gvr5.net. The team has set a goal to double their attendance this year to help fund the team’s trip to Nationals. The team will also once again host the Father-Daughter Dance in early 2019.
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The team stopped in Sioux City, Iowa for a workout at Briar Cliff University before traveling to Fargo, where they took on some of the toughest wrestlers from across the country. Nearly 5,100 high school boys and girls from across the country competed in the event at the FargoDome on the campus of North Dakota State University.
to share? Send your news to news@grainvalleynews.com.
Grain Valley wrestlers (Pictured L to R) Jaden Worthington, Drake Tipton, Caleb Benshoof. Photo credit: Chad Benshoof.
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Grasher Emerges as Leader on Eagles Football Team by John Unrein Leaders emerge as much as they are chosen. Head football coach Dave Allie of the Grain Valley Eagles identifies Ethan Grasher “as one of the team’s hardest workers and front-runners in the role of team leadership.” Grasher, a senior, has played running back since first grade flag football. Away from the field, this middle child enjoys bass and fly fishing. His aspirations after high school include welding or civil engineering. The ease with which he carries himself is apparent and a leadership trait his coaches and fellow players respect. Grasher indicated his love for football exists “because it requires you to play hard and it creates a family type atmosphere. A band of brotherhood that lasts forever.” Grasher went onto to add that he believes one of the keys to the team’s success this season will be “thinking team instead of me, especially when adversity hits. This is football and it (adversity) doesn’t escape anyone.”
How his team has faced and handled challenges is one of the things Grasher states he is most proud of heading into this season. “We as a program have grown, winning the MRVC (Missouri River Valley Conference) each of the last two seasons. Being a part of that legacy has been great.” When asked where the team has grown the most during July camp, Grasher said, “knowledge of plays has become more locked in. We are working to execute better.” Grasher is also looking forward to being a part of the suburban conference this year. “Being the new kid on the block and getting to show everyone what we’re made of is a challenge we accept.”
The Eagles wrapped up their final day of camp on Friday, July 27th with a scrimmage against the Fort Osage Indians. The first day of fall practice begins Monday, August 6th.
Head Coach Dave Allie identifies Senior Running Back Ethan Grasher “as one of the team’s hardest workers and front-runners in the role of team leadership.”
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Answers to Last Week’s Puzzles
Community Calendar August 3, 2018 16th Annual Grain Valley Eagle Golf Fundraiser 8:00am Shotgun Start Adams Pointe Golf Club A joint fundraising effort of the GV Education Foundation, GV Eagle Booster Club and the GVHS Activities Department. Contact Jerry Vaughan at jvaughan@gvr5.net for more information. August 5, 2018 4th Annual “Cruise for Consciousness” Car Show Benefiting the Purple Peace Foundation for Epilepsy Awareness 11:00am—3:00pm Grain Valley Community Center Pavilion August 7, 2018 National Night Out 6:00pm—8:30pm Armstrong Park Join the Grain Valley Police Department for an evening of FREE family fun at the Pavilion at Armstrong Park!.
August 13, 2018 Grain Valley Schools Meet the Teacher Night Each school hosts a Meet the Teacher Night the evening of August 13. See the Grain Valley Schools app or website for specific times for your child’s school. August 15, 2018 First Day of School Grain Valley Schools Check the Grain Valley Schools app or website for bus routes and start and end times for your child’s school. August 16, 2018 Beyond Cable TV 6:30pm—7:30pm Mid-Continent Public Library, Grain Valley Branch www.mymcpl.org/events Are you interested in saving money by getting rid of cable? Learn the different devices and services you can use with your internet connection to start cutting the cord today. Add your community event at www.grainvalleynews.com
Looking Back The People Behind Our Street Names by Marcia Napier E.E. Kirby Street was easy to research. It would be great if all street names came with the first and middle initials of the individual that the name honors. Edward E. Kirby was the son of William Robert Kirby and Susan Rebecca (Capelle) Kirby. In the 1910 United States Census, Edward and his family resided in Grain Valley. However, by the 1920 census, he was the Jackson County Clerk and in 1930 the family’s official residence was in Brooking Township (Raytown). Smith Street, which bares a fairly common name, has been my most difficult search so far. I was aware of the Smith family relatives on Charlotte Street as late as the
1990’s. But alas, I have not found a connection to the Oscar Smith ancestors dating back to the early 1900s when most of the streets in the original town were named. However, I did find a Sterling R. Smith (no recognizable relation of Oscar) buried in the old Green’s Chapel Cemetery. He and his wife, Ida (Newton) had eleven children. Their second child, a daughter named Hattie, married Edward E. Kirby in 1898. Although my college Logic teacher would probably not approve of my conclusion, I am putting my money on Smith Street (only two blocks from E.E. Kirby) being named in honor of someone in Hattie’s family lineage.
