Raytown-Brooking Eagle, January 1, 2016

Free complimentary copy January 1, 2016 • Volume 3, No. 10

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Raytown 2015: A year in review JAN 2

File Photos from Raytown-Brooking Eagle

2015 Timeline

RHS Marching Band Performs at Disney World

APR 10

Raytown fails to pass proposed charter again Passage of the adoption of the city charter draft failed by a vote of 1903 to 1537 in the April election. The anticharter campaign launched by the Committee for Professional Government won by dishing out loads of misinformation.

The Committee for Professional Government was not so professional by its propa-

ganda campaign based on misinformation rather than truth, by not understanding the fundamentals of amending a good charter constitution that even its officers publicly declared had few flaws, and by wasting precious taxpayer dollars for a cause that had little merit.

Those who feared the charter gave the Board of Al-

dermen too much power are still stuck with a weak Mayor and a Board of Aldermen that is the ultimate authority. Mayor David Bower also missed a great opportunity of adding to his legacy that of being the Mayor who got a charter passed in Raytown by a commission that took its task seriously and acted professionally.

JUN 12

Raytown BMX Hosts USA BMX MidAmerica Nationals Loading the charter buses

Approximately 70 students, teachers and parents left the grounds of Raytown High School on Sunday morning, Dec. 28, 2014, in two Arrow Stage chartered buses headed for Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. After spending three days in the various

Walt Disney World Parks, the Raytown High School Blue Jay Pride Marching Band will perform in the Disney Magic Music Days Parade on New Year’s Day in the Magic Kingdom!

Director of Bands Joe Hill applied to the Disney Performing Arts Series for the

honor a year ago. Meeting all their criteria and sending a video of the marching band’s performances paid off.

“This is a fantastic opportunity and honor,” Hill told the group before they launched.

“You will be ambassadors of Raytown High School.”

MAR 6

First Baptist Raytown welcomes first African American pastor in 172-year history

Brandon Park was First Baptist Church of Raytown’s first African American pastor in the church’s 172year history.

With a 172-year history, most of First Baptist Raytown’s firsts happened long ago, but this month, they are celebrating a very important first in their hisAPR 10

tory – their first African American pastor. Kansas City native Ron Haley joined the FBR staff in early February as the new Discipleship and Groups Pastor, filling a position that has been vacant for three years.

The mega church that now sits on 350 Highway started out with 16 members meeting in a home in December 1842. Over the following 172 years, the church saw growth and change for the better with each first they experienced. Their first church building brought so much growth that within 12 years, they had to build a larger worship center to hold all of their members.

Over the next 100 years, the church grew exponentially. In

the mid-2000s, the church saw church membership drop as it endured some struggles. After a yearlong search for a new senior pastor, the church called Dr. Brandon Park to lead First Baptist Raytown beginning in September 2012.

Park’s youth and energy brought a fresh perspective to FBR, focusing on being a strong multi-generational and multiethnic church family. Over 35 percent of the Raytown community is made up of African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and American Indians. Park desired for FBR to be a reflection of those demographics, making the church a true picture of the community in which it is located.

McDonough wins mayor’s race, 4 new aldermen join BOA

Jackson County Sheriff Mike Sharp, left, and Raytown Police Chief Jim Lynch, right, came out to join Raytown Mayor Mike McDonough’s watch party.

Raytown elected Mike McDonough as its new mayor with 57 percent of the vote defeating Ward 4 Alderman Pat Ertz.

“Thank you for all your help and support. I had no idea when I started that every single day of my life would be campaigning but I had some fantastic help,” he said at a watch party on election night.

“The main thing is that I made it thanks to you all. I promise I will work my rear off to turn this town around. … This town is going to be something again.

This town is going to be as fan-

tastic as it’s always been, the best people in the world, the best downtown to come, the best everything including the best schools, neighborhoods and everything else that goes with it. We’re going to be Raytown. We’re going to be proud of it and we’re not going to talk bad about her anymore.”

Alderman Race • Ward 1: Newcomer Karen Black defeated incumbent, Joe Creamer, and Greg Walters with 38 percent of the vote.

• Ward 2: Incumbent Jim Aziere kept his seat with 53 percent of the vote, defeat-

Worst Of 2015 Page 7

ing Steve Guenther and Chris Rathbone.

• Ward 3: Mark Moore defeated Ryan Meyers and Sterling Brown with 46 percent of the vote for the seat vacated by Charlotte Melson.

• Ward 4: Steve Meyers defeated Mary Jane Van Buskirk with 52 percent of the vote. The seat was vacated by Pat Ertz who chose to run for mayor.

• Ward 5: Eric Teeman defeated Barry Park with 58 percent of the vote for the seat vacated by Michael Lightfoot.

Raytown BMX hosted the 2015 USA BMX MidAmerica Nationals on Jun. 5-7.

Raytown BMX hosted the USA BMX MidAmerica Nationals last weekend, June 5-7, bringing nearly 3,000 people to the area. The three-day event that took place at the track at 12605 Frost Road in Kansas City attracted 638 entrants from 28 states and one Canadian province. Of the entrants, 120 came from all parts of Missouri.

Raytown BMX hosted the

Redline Central Final back in 2010 and 2011 for central region states but never the Nationals. When the USA BMX big rig from Arizona pulled into Raytown, the track was found in great shape despite nearly a month straight of heavy rain. Track operator Scott Morrow and his crew had resurfaced the second turn with fresh asphalt and applied slurry as a sealant to

the dirt track to keep it stable during rainfall, a new technique that is gaining popularity.

The Olympics has brought global exposure to BMX racing and stimulated growth in popularity with today’s youth and adults who refuse to grow old. USA BMX racing is full of nonstop action on either 20-inch BMX or 24-inch Cruisers.

Sen. LeVota resigns amidst sexual harassment allegations Sen. Paul LeVota, who represents the 11th district, including Raytown and Independence, announced his resignation from the Senate July 24 following allegations of sexual harassment from two former interns.

Though, LeVota maintains he did not act inappropriately with the interns.

“As I stated before, I did not engage in harassment of any intern in the Missouri Senate and an investigation found no proof of misconduct,” he said in a Facebook post July 24. “However, I will not put my family, myself, or the Senate through the process of dealing with the veracity of false allegations

and character assassination against me.”

The statement goes on to say his official resignation date is Aug. 23.

Alissa Hambree, a student at the University of Central Missouri, told an investigator the harassment included unwelcome text messages and explicit requests for sexual activity, according to the investigative report. LeVota denied the happenings.

LeVota’s Facebook page, official website and Twitter account were seemingly deactivated by Monday morning.

In closing his Friday post on his Facebook page he wrote, “I want to thank all of my supporters over my years

JUL 31

Former state Sen. Paul LeVota

in public service and I look forward to joining the ranks as a private individual and contribute to my community in that way.”

AUG 28

FBI looking into Jackson Co. inmate abuse The FBI is investigating the use of excessive force at the Jackson County Detention Center, according to Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders.

“Today, the acting Director of Corrections Joe Piccinini and I briefed the county legislature on several inci-

Timeline continued on page 2

It’s All In The Sauce Page 7

dents involving the possible use of excessive force by corrections officers,” Sanders said. “We laid out a two-step plan to both invite a federal investigation, and to launch a proactive independent review of jail policies and procedures.”

The four incidents came

to light after an internal investigation. In response, the county has formed a Department of Corrections task force that will review policies and procedures of the Jackson County Detention Center. The task force will review and make recommendations related to Abuse continued on page 5

First Snow Page 8

2

SEP 4

www.raytowneagle.com Timeline continued from page 1

Raytown C-II Board of Education members, district staff and students and community leaders gathered at Raytown South High School for the official opening and ribbon-cutting of the school’s new stadium.

SEP 4

bers, thank you for bringing this point of pride to our community. That’s what it is. It’s a point of pride. For too many years we – nothing against Raytown High School – we had to play at their stadium even though it had the cardinal on it. It was still their stadium, not ours.”

Apart from a few playfully competitive jabs at Raytown High School from some of the speakers during the ceremony, the stadium was presented as an asset to the entire school district and the community.

“We are opening a sta-

Friday, January 1, 2016

File Photos from Raytown-Brooking Eagle

Ribbon-cutting ceremony held for Raytown South stadium

Raytown Schools Board of Education members, students and school staff, city officials and community leaders gathered at the new Markland Field Stadium at Raytown South High School Thursday afternoon for a ribbon-cutting ceremony ahead of Friday’s game against Truman High School.

“I’m proud to finally see a great stadium that we’ve deserved for a very long time,” said Mayor Mike McDonough, a 1973 graduate of Raytown South High School. “… (Superintendent Allan) Markley and the board mem-

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dium today for Raytown South High School, but it’s bigger than that,” Markley said. “It’s about the Raytown community. We are a family. One time out of the year during the football season, we’re not fiends. After that, we are … It’s important that we think about (how) we are a family in the community of Raytown, and if we continue to move forward the possibilities for us are endless.”

This is the first time Raytown South will have the opportunity to have a season opener at home is approximately 50 years.

4th annual Raytown Arts & Music Festival a success

Crane Brewing, Kiwanis host craft beer festival

SEP 11

Hundreds of people gathered on the greenspace in downtown Raytown for the city’s first craft beer festival hosted by Crane Brewing Company and the Raytown Three Trails Kiwanis.

If Labor Day weekend plans took you away from Raytown this year, frankly, you missed out on a good time in your own backyard.

Approximately 500 people were at the green space in downtown Raytown Sept. 5 for the inaugural Festival of the Lost Township beer festival where attendees had a chance to sample craft beer and spirits from 30 breweries and distilleries from

the Show-Me State and beyond.

“I’m pretty pleased for it being a first-time event,” said Chris Meyers, Crane Brewing vice president and co-owner. “I was mostly relieved and happy everyone else seemed really happy.”

Temperatures crept into the low 90s mid-day Saturday, but it was easy to beat the heat in the shade of tents and a cold beer in hand.

If you missed the event, you can stop kicking yourself. Meyers said he very much would like to make the event an annual occurrence in Raytown.

“I would like bigger and more tents for next year,” he said. “I did like the size of the festival. We’ve got a lot of space there to grow, but I’d like to grow it little by little each year.”

Man charged in death of Raytown teens, infant A Kansas City man was charged Thursday in the Sept.

8 shooting and deaths of two Raytown teens and an infant boy.

Joseph L. Nelson, 22, was charged with three counts of first-degree murder, three counts of armed criminal action and one count of first-de-

gree burglary in the deaths of 19-year-old Shannon Rollins, 17-year-old Bianca R. Fletcher

Teen continued on page 5

Mayor to create joint committee to address stormwater, parks funding After a two-hour discussion on the future of the 1/8cent sales tax revenue for parks and stormwater, the Raytown

Board of Aldermen decided a joint committee of aldermen and Raytown Parks Board members should be formed

SEP 18

SEP 18

to find a long-term solution to how the revenue should be

Stormwater continued on page 5 OCT 2

Al Brown, long-time REAP director retires Al Brown served as the director of Raytown Emergency Assistance Program for 20 years. He retired in July and Holly Grimwood, Stage on Kenagy Park lake peninsula at the 4th annual Raytown Arts & Music Festival Aug. 29. then-assistant director, took Thousands of people and by Raytown Parks and was a knock-out on all ac- over for him.

He was very forthcoming were at C. Lee Kenagy this Recreation Department Spe- counts. about what a fine job she is past Saturday for the Ray- cial Events Supervisor Dave “It went really, really doing in her relatively new town Arts & Music Festival, Turner’s judgment, the event well,” he said. “A lot of our role, not unlike how forthArt continued on page 5 coming — nearly eager — Al was during our hour-andTimeline continued on page 5 twenty minute conversation to shower REAP’s volunteers and staff with compliments and deflect all credit away from himself.

Al started at REAP in 1995, though he had never

done this type of work before and originally declined the job offer, three years after it secured a 501(c)3 nonprofit status. As many as 250 to 300 people come through REAP’s doors each month.

After 20 years as director, Al said cited health concerns as the primary reason for his retirement.

“It’s better to do so when you are still at the top of your game, so to speak, rather than wait until you are no longer performing your duties well,” he wrote in a newsletter to coworkers, volunteers and donors.

When I asked Al what

his greatest accomplishment was, his response was quick: the REAP office building.

Then he started talking about all the clients that have come through the doors over the years.

“I guess getting this building built is probably my biggest satisfaction, but the small satisfaction of having that little kid be so thrilled with his blue pair of shoes or (the boy) with his backpack — you saw how emotional I got telling the story about (the boy),” he said. “I don’t well up when I talk about this damn building.”

OCT 2

Jackson Co., KCATA agree to funding deal, purchase of Rock Island Corridor On Sept. 30, Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders and Kansas City Area Transportation Authority President and CEO Joe Reardon revealed at a press conference a cooperative agreement that will finance the acquisition of 17.7 miles

of the Rock Island Corridor from Union Pacific Railroad.

“This is an historic step forward for our entire community,” Sanders said. “The significance of this announcement, and its potential to shape our county’s growth for generations to come, can-

not be overstated …

“Imagine being able to leave your seat at the top of Arrowhead Stadium and get home before most cars leave the parking lot. Imagine the economic development in Kansas City, Raytown and

RockIslandcontinuedonpage5

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Friday, January 1, 2016

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www.raytowneagle.com

3

The courage to compromise

Bites

Chief Deputy Bellamy named to Saline Co. bench William Page Bellamy, chief deputy of the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office for three years, was named associate circuit judge in Saline County Dec. 24 by Gov. Jay Nixon.

Bellamy will be filling a vacancy created by the early retirement of his brother, James (Tut) Bellamy, who is leaving his position for health-related reasons.

“Page has served Jackson County for three years with a commitment level that was unmatched by others in this position,” Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said in statement. “I am so very grateful for his service, for his dogged determina-

tion to find justice for those who are too easily discarded, for his intellect, for his compassion, for his willingness to be of service on a probation violation hearing or a death penalty case and for absolutely everything in between.”

From 2009 to 2012, Bellamy served as Chief Counsel of the Public Safety Division of the Missouri Attorney General’s Office. He served as the elected Prosecuting Attorney for Lafayette County from 1995 to 2009, and he was an assistant public defender in central Missouri, including Saline County, from 1989 to 1994. He also worked in private practice.

Bites

Mid-Continent Public Library hits 1M eBook check-outs in ‘15 In 2015, Mid-Continent Public Library became the first Missouri or Kansas library ever to reach more than 1 million annual downloads of eBooks and audiobooks through Overdrive, a service that provides a catalog of more than 2 million titles for use on tablets and other portable devices.

MCPL reached the milestone Dec. 21.

“Many of our customers have taken the opportunity to utilize Overdrive to access books titles of all types, from children’s titles to New York Times Bestsellers,” said Library Director Steven V. Potter. “We encourage more people to take advantage of this service during our Winter

Reading Challenge, especially when the weather is similar to what it is this week.”

The Mid-Continent Public Library Winter Reading Challenge opens registration on Jan. 1 and runs from Jan. 15 through March 15. All participants who read five or more books will receive a limited edition coffee mug that highlights the Challenge’s “Classics Re-mixed” theme and will be entered to win a stay at Hotel Phillips, tickets to the Kansas City Ballet’s “Rite of Spring” and a certificate to Snow & Company. Register for the Challenge at www. mymcpl.org/winter-reading.

Conservation, partners host Eagle Days at Smithville Lake The Missouri Department of Conservation and partners will host the 21st annual Eagle Days at Smithville Lake on Jan. 9 and 10. The right combination of weather that’s cold, but not too cold, can concentrate waterfowl and eagles at the lake north of Smithville and Kansas City.

Regardless of weather, the indoor conservation exhibits and live raptor shows are always popular. All programs are free and all ages welcome.

Conservation displays, crafts for children, and a program with live predatory birds will be available indoors at the Paradise Pointe Golf Course Clubhouse, at 18212 Golf Course Drive in Smithville. Operation Wildlife will

showcase live raptors. Other exhibits including wild birds rehabilitated from injuries by the Lakeside Nature Center will be on display.

Eagle Days event hours are 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 9, and 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 10. Operation Wildlife will present four shows on Saturday and three on Sunday. For more information about Eagle Days and live bird show times, call the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at 816-532-0174.

For information about these and other Eagle Days events throughout Missouri, and for eagle viewing sites throughout winter, visit mdc. mo.gov/events/eagledays.

Mark Twain billed for 2016 coin Mark Twain, celebrated Missouri author, will be commemorated on a coin in 2016, according to the U.S. Mint.

The coins’ designs are emblematic of Twain’s life and legacy. The gold coin’s obverse design features a portrait of Mark Twain with the inscriptions “liberty,” “in God we trust,” and “2016.” The obverse was designed by Artistic Infusion Program artist Benjamin Sowards and sculpted by United States Mint SculptorEngraver Don Everhart.

The gold coin’s reverse design depicts a steamboat on the Mississippi River. Inscriptions are “United States of America,” “$5,” and “E Pluribus Unum.” The reverse was designed by Artistic Infusion Program artist Ronald D. Sanders and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Joseph Menna.

The silver coin’s obverse design features a portrait of Mark Twain holding a pipe with the smoke forming a

silhouette of Huck Finn and Jim on a raft in the background. Inscriptions are “liberty,” “in God we trust,” and “2016.” The obverse was designed by Artistic Infusion Program artist Chris Costello and sculpted by United States Mint Sculptor-Engraver Michael Gaudioso.

The silver coin’s reverse design features an assortment of characters leaping to life from Mark Twain’s works: The knight and horse from “A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court,” the frog from “The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County,” and Jim and Huck from “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.” Inscriptions are “United States of America,” “$1,” and “E Pluribus Unum.” The reverse was designed by Artistic Infusion Program artist Patricia Lucas-Morris and sculpted by United States Mint SculptorEngraver Renata Gordon.

Additional information will be announced prior to the coins’ release in 2016.

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For more than five years, I have written a weekly commentary treatise promoting the need for an elevation in congressional civility and a denunciation of the notion that compromise means capitulations. Four hundred and thirty-four Members of the House of Representatives receive the weekly congressional communiqué. Hundreds, over the years, from both sides of the aisle, have expressed enlightenment in the ruminations.

As I contemplated my vote on the tax extenders and the $1.8 trillion spending bill last week, I looked at all the distasteful ingredients sprinkled throughout each bill,

and I began to move toward a “no” vote and a pithy quote for my constituents about how the other side further impaired the poor and recklessly protected the privileged. However, I providentially came to realize that I cannot inspire my colleagues to practice what I am unwilling to show and tell. I do believe that an atmosphere of thoughtful compromise can and must remerge in the DC politically tribalistic environment. It is imperative for the political survival of the world’s most enduring democracy.

As we move into 2016, we must listen to each other and actually attempt to bal-

ance our positions with those of the other side. Members of Congress can and should hold strong beliefs on the myriad of legislative matters they we must address. But it would be in the nation’s best interest to be humble enough to accept the notion that both sides just might have some good ideas, which, if combined, may indeed solve some of our most stubborn and puzzling problems.

Constituents must not be demagogued. You should courageously be told that compromise, like that which allowed the tax extenders and the spending bill to deceive congressional approval, is a truce between

ideologies and the insertion of something right and something left.

Today, caustic comments poison the body politic, just as the bite of a cobra can poison the human body. This is not a mere highfalutin complaint from a vociferously verbose Member of Congress. Let’s start today and practice throughout 2016 ways to foster and forge our better selves.

I wish you the most wonderful holiday season, a Merry Christmas, and a most Happy New Year!

Warmly, Emanuel Cleaver, II Member of Congress

Initiative petitions relating to General Assembly approved for circulation for 2016 ballot The following is a summary of initiative petitions relating to General Assembly for circulation for the 2016 ballot: Initiative petition 2016-136 Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to: • Change process and criteria for redrawing state legislative districts during reapportionment; • Establish limits on campaign contributions that candidates for state legislature can accept from individuals or entities; • Establish a limit on gifts that state legislators, and their employees, can accept from lobbyists; • Prohibit state legislators,

and their employees, from serving as paid lobbyists for a period of time or being paid for campaign work; • Prohibit political fundraising on general assembly property; • Require legislative records and proceedings to be open to the public; and • Prohibit sexual harassment by state legislators and their employees?

State governmental entities estimate annual operating costs will increase at least $61,000, may increase an additional $125,000, and may result in minimal incarceration costs if people are convicted under the provisions of this

petition. Local governmental entities report no expected fiscal impact.

The petitions, which would amend Article III, were submitted by Bradley Ketcher, 28 Plant Ave., St. Louis, MO 63119. The other five petition are identical to 2016-136.

Before any constitutional changes can be brought before Missouri voters in the November 2016 election, signatures must be obtained from registered voters equal to 8 percent of the total votes cast in the 2012 governor’s election from six of the state’s eight congressional districts.

Signatures on behalf of all initiative petitions for the

2016 ballot are due to the secretary of state’s office by no later than 5 p.m. on May 8, 2016.

Before circulating petitions, state law requires that groups must first have the form of their petition approved by the secretary of state and attorney general.

The secretary of state then prepares a summary statement of no more than 100 words, and the state auditor prepares a fiscal impact statement, both of which are subject to the approval of the attorney general. When both statements are approved, they become the official ballot title.

Interfaith Alliance to host 19th annual MLK celebration The Raytown Community Interfaith Alliance will hold its 19th Annual Martin Luther King Multicultural Celebration at 3 p.m. Jan. 17, 2016 at Graceway Auditorium, 5460 Blue Ridge Cutoff.

The keynote speaker this year is Anthony Moore, assistant superintendent for the Raytown C-II School District, an adjunct professor, an ordained minister, motivational speaker and educational consultant. He has developed numerous workshops and university courses in the areas of school transformation and renewal, organizational effectiveness, educational leadership, diversity

and cultural education, and character education. Moore holds a master’s degree from the University of Kansas and doctorate from the University of Wyoming.

Moore’s personal story is one of inspiration, triumph, and human persistence. He attributes much of who he is today to the loving care and instruction of his parents who encouraged him to work hard to surmount the barriers inherent in the low-income crime and drug-infested neighborhood in which he grew up. As a first-generation college graduate in his family, he has worked hard to overcome the low self-confidence and lack of motiva-

tion typical for many young African-American males who attended economically disadvantaged schools in the urban cores of America.

The winners of our MLK Today Essay Contest will also be announced at the event. Students from grades three through 12 answered the question: “In the spirit of Dr. King, what can I do to make my community better?” Out of the 1,736 entries, nine finalists (three elementary, three middle school and three high school) were chosen, and winners will receive a cash prize.

Raytown Mayor Michael McDonough will deliver a proclamation and Maxine

“Queen Mother” McFarlane will perform her annual rendition of “Pass it On.” The song reflects that it only takes a spark to get a fire going. “Pass it on” embodies the goal of the celebration to bring to light Dr. King’s message that we all have worth, and to share that message with others to make our world a better place.

The event is sponsored by Barker Memorial Cathedral of Praise Community Outreach, Graceway, the Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce, the Raytown Community Interfaith Alliance and the city of Raytown’s Human Relations Commission.

Former Raytown aldermen seeking state rep. seat Patrick Riehle, former Raytown alderman from 2005 to 2007, plans to run for the Missouri House of Representatives 28th District seat as the Democratic nominee in 2016. The seat, currently held by Tom McDonald, will be open due to term limits.

Riehle, a self-described blue-collar man, said he’s

a proponent of prevailing wage, women’s abortion rights, affordable healthcare and ethics reform in Jefferson City.

Riehle, a lifelong Raytown resident, attended Our Lady of Lourdes grade school and graduated from Raytown South High School in 1973. He received a B.A.

in Economics from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 1999. He is employed

by Bass Pro Shops in Independence.

He also served as chairman of the city’s finance and legislative committees, and as mayor pro tem. He is the current chairman of the board of zoning adjustment,

and serves as vice president of the UMKC Arts & Sciences Alumni Board of Directors.

Riehle said in a statement concerns or comments may be directed to him via email at pjriehle@comcast.net.

The Raytown-Brooking Eagle will increase political and candidate reporting as the election nears.

After rockin’ around the holiday tree, recycle it When the holidays are over, and it’s time for natural holiday trees, wreaths and garlands to come down, give them a second life by recycling.

Like other yard waste materials, holiday trees and greenery are banned from landfills in Missouri, and Kansas landfills discourage them. Area communities offer residents a number of ways to recycle natural decorations that not only keep these materials out of landfills, but also put them to good use for a variety of purposes, including trail surfaces, erosion control, landscaping, and fish habitat in local lakes.

“All residents in the Kansas City metro area can recycle their natural holiday trees and greenery, either at a drop-off location or through curbside pickup if their community offers that service,” said Matt Riggs, outreach coordinator for the MARC Solid Waste Management District. “Many of the drop-off locations are open for up to a month after the holidays, so there are plenty of opportunities to recycle your holiday tree and greenery.”

More information on tree recycling is available at

www.RecycleSpot.org, or at 816-474-8326.

Pick-up services Before placing trees and greenery at the curb, check with your trash hauler to find out if they offer curbside service and if there is a fee. Other area pickup services include: • Compost Connection Inc. — 816-761-8300.

• Lawn-Corps Curbside Recycling — 816-761-3046 • Nature’s Rubbish — 816444-4050 Drop-Off Locations: • Gladstone — Regional Brush & Yard Waste Recycle Facility, 4000 NE 76th St., Gladstone, Missouri, 816436-5442.

• Kansas City, Kan. — Alvey Park, 4834 Metropolitan Ave., Kansas City, Kansas, 913-573-8327.

• Kansas City, Kan. — City Park, 2601 Park Drive, Kansas City, Kansas, 913-5738327.

• Kansas City, Kan. — Planet Marrs, 2701 Roe Lane, Kansas City, Kansas, 913888-0539.

• Kansas City, Kan. — Stony Point Park, 531 N. 86th St., Kansas City, Kansas, 913573-8327.

• Wyandotte County Park — 600 N. 126th St., Bonner Springs, Kansas, 913-573-

8327.

• Kansas City, Missouri (North) — Leaf and Brush Drop-Off Site, 11660 N. Main St., Kansas City, Missouri, 816-513-1313.

• Kansas City, Missouri (East Bottoms) — Leaf and Brush Drop-Off Site, 1815 N. Chouteau Trafficway., Kansas City, Missouri, 816-5131313.

• Kansas City, Missouri (Southeast) — Leaf and Brush Drop-Off Site, 10301 Raytown Road, Kansas City, Missouri, 816-513-1313.

• Kansas City, Missouri (East) — Missouri Organic Recycling, Inc., 7700 E. U.S. Highway 40, Kansas City, Missouri, 816-483-0908.

• Kansas City, Missouri (South) — Suburban Lawn and Garden Yard Waste Recycling Center, 139th and Wyandotte, Kansas City, Missouri, 816-941-2438.

• Kearney — Recycling center, 504 E. 19th St., Kearney, Missouri, 816-628-4142.

• Lee’s Summit — Resource Recovery Park, 2101 SE Hamblen Rd., Lee’s Summit, Missouri, 816-969-1800.

• Lenexa — Little Mill Creek Park North, 7900 Cottonwood, Lenexa, Kansas, 913477-7100.

• Liberty — Bennett Park, 1100 Clayview Drive, Lib-

erty, Missouri, 816-439-4415.

• Liberty — City Park, 970 S. Highway 291, Liberty, Missouri, 816-439-4415.

• Olathe — Kill Creek Park, 11670 Homestead Lane, Olathe, Kansas, 913-8884713.

• Olathe — Heritage Park, 16050 Pflumm Road, Olathe, Kansas, 913-888-4713.

• Olathe — Yard waste collection facility, 127th St. and Hedge Lane, Olathe, Kansas, 913-971-9311, Olathe residents only.

• Overland Park — Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, 8909 W. 179th St., Overland Park, Kansas, 913-895-6273.

• Overland Park — Youngs Park, 7701 Antioch, Overland Park, Kansas, 913-8956273.

• Overland Park — Quivira Park, 11901 Quivira, Overland Park, Kansas, 913-8956273.

• Overland Park — Indian Creek Recreation Center, 10308 Marty, Overland Park, Kansas, 913-895-6273.

• Shawnee — Deffenbaugh Customer Convenience Center, 17955 Holiday Drive, Shawnee, Kansas, 913-6318181.

• Shawnee — Shawnee Mission Park, 7900 Renner Road, Shawnee, Kansas, 913-888-4713.

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Zweifel offers Missourians year-end financial tips Our day to day lives keep us very busy. And when we’re busy, we tend to focus on things which are immediately in front of us. It’s perfectly understandable, but it can be dangerous when we consider the planning and preparation it takes to make consistent, sound financial decisions. So as 2015 comes to an end, think about some of the simple yet meaningful things you can do to keep your fiscal house in order for the New Year and beyond.

1. Make an end-of-year contribution to your MOST 529 college savings account. Missourians can deduct up to $8,000 annually, or $16,000 for married couples filing jointly, and savings grow tax deferred.

Learn more at MissouriMost. org.

2. Remember that the holiday season is a time for giving— and you can use that to your advantage. Donating to charity is the right thing to do, but it can also benefit you in the form of a tax deduction. You can even deduct from your taxes the value of donated appreciated assets, such as stocks.

3. While examining your portfolio for those appreciated assets, look more broadly at your investments: do they still reflect your goals? If some of your asset categories have shifted above or below your target, you may need to rebalance to stay in line with your goals and risk preferences.

However, don’t check your investments too often. Studies show that the more frequently individuals look at their investments, the more likely they are to sell during a downturn of the market. Sometimes less is better.

4. It’s a good idea every year to streamline your insurance costs. Spend some time examining your insurance policies and make sure you have only what you need: don’t overpay for unnecessary coverage or

services. If you are a homeowner, make sure your house is covered for the cost to rebuild, not just the market value. You should also closely consider every type of insurance you might need, including flood and earthquake coverage.

5. Check for any unclaimed property at ShowMeMoney. com. It is easy and free of charge.

6. Build a financial safety net for you and your family. This doesn’t need to happen overnight, and the objectives of the safety net will vary depending on your circumstances. Someone with a steady job might be able to get by with three months of living expenses, while a selfemployed individual might need a larger cushion. Start off 2016 right by adding whatever you can to your savings now.

7. Most importantly, retirement. For many of us, the concept is so distant that we fail to start planning early. Don’t fall into this trap. In the current state of retirement, personal savings and defined contribution plans are more important than ever before. If you can, max out your contributions to your preferred retirement savings vehicle, especially if it comes with an employer match. Today many 401Ks can be set up to increase automatically every year. Even a small annual increase of a half percent adds up over time. If you have an IRA, have your contribution deducted from your paycheck automatically. Every dollar saved today is one you will have when it counts the most.

Some of these goals may sound overwhelming, but don’t let that keep you from ever getting started. Remember it is never too late to save, so start at a reasonable level, say three to five percent of your monthly income, and aim to increase it every year. It is always better to reach part of your goals than none at all. It gets easier with practice, and every dollar saved furthers each of your goals over time.

Jason Offutt I recently stayed in a motel and, apart from the fact that there was no “Sanitized for your protection strip” on the toilet, it was comfortable.

OK, OK, so motels stopped putting those strips on toilet lids in the 1970s or ’80s (or they simply stopped cleaning the toilets), but the promise gave me at least some comfort I wouldn’t catch anything from the seat.

However, motel toilets aren’t the worst part of staying in a strange, well-traveled place.

There are things about motel rooms that terrify people and most revolve around who stayed in the room the night before. It could have been a fertilizer salesman from Omaha, a serial killer, nobody in particular, or a rock star. Yes, even in an economy motel it could have been a rock star.

Jani Lane, the former lead singer of the 1980s metal band Warrant – the man whose voice gave us the hair band anthem “Cherry Pie” – died in Los Angeles in 2011 at a Comfort Inn. A Comfort Inn. The family of four from Waukegan who stayed in that room the next night, before embarking on their long day at Disneyland, swam in the pool Lane swam in, used the shower Lane used, slept in the bed Lane died in and had no idea their room was recently covered in yellow police tape and only lightly cleaned with Febreze.

The point is, you can’t know who stayed in the room. Considering the station that popped on my room’s television was the Spanish-speaking channel, the person who stayed there the night before could have

been anyone from the ambassador from Uruguay to Antonio Banderas. Antonio’s career is what it is.

You’ll never know what happened in your room even after you walk into it. Eww. People who stay in motels are often worried about the cleanliness of pillows, sheets, the carpet, the bathroom floor, the telephone and the TV remote control.

I have a friend who carries a box of sandwich bags on long trips just to slip the remote control into one so he doesn’t have to touch the buttons. Seriously, Bob? I’ve slept in motel rooms with gang symbol graffiti. I’m sure unwashed hands on the TV remote are the least of your problems.

The only thing that concerns me about the quality of the motel/hotel/hostel/ditch I’m staying in is the coffee maker. Staff wash the sheets.

They clean the bathroom.

They vacuum nasty bits out of the carpet and if there are blood and stab marks on the mattress, I believe in my heart management replaces the mattress with something that doesn’t qualify as “evidence.” But does anyone clean the coffee maker?

As steaming hot water pumps through the machine, it cleans itself, right? No. I’ve found spiders and unidentifiable flakes of stuff in motel coffee makers. I can only imagine someone stashed their meth in the water reservoir at some point and I’m going to get pulled over by the cops on the way home because I’m tweaked on decaf.

I’m getting the jitters thinking about it.

At least I made it out of the motel experience alive – and with a fresh roll of toilet paper in my overnight bag.

Totally worth it.

Jason Offutt’s latest book, “Across a Corn-Swept Land: An epic beer run through the Upper Midwest,” is available at amazon.com. A native of Missouri, Jason currently teaches journalism at Northwest Missouri State University and has earned many humor writer awards throughout his career. His racy first novel, “A Funeral Story,” is available at amazon.com. Jason’s parody survival guide, “How to Kill Monsters Using Common Household Items,” is also available at amazon.com.

President Truman, was worth a visit

By George Michaud As I stepped into the front entrance of President Truman’s home in Independence, Missouri on Christmas Eve 1971 I noticed that the threshold between the doors needed repair and it all flashed back in my mind what I had always heard about our 33rd President of The United States: that he was never a rich man, that he never taken anything to help his political career until he met Tom Prendergast and the Prendergast political machine of Kansas City, which was very much a controlling part of The Democrat Party of Missouri.

The Muehlebach Hotel had a tradition each year where the general manager and a few others would go by Truman’s house in Independence and wish him a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, and bringing him a gift.

This year it was a huge bouquet of flowers very Christmas-like with the colors, and the ribbons wrapped around it were beautifully decorated.

President Truman yelled from the living room (only about 8 feet away) to come on in and place the flowers on a banquet table that

only had candle holders on it on each end. He was used to this tradition each year.

Mr. Ralph Hitz, Jr. was the leader of the group and also general manager and managing director of The Muehlebach. The home was smaller than one would expect a former President to be living in. With the group from The Muehlebach, Sarah, who opened the door for us and was what seemed to be live in maid, never sat down.

Sarah was about 60 years old and said she had been working for Bess and Harry for 30 years. She talked quite a bit, even answering questions for Bessie and Harry where it seemed appropriate for her to do so. They didn’t seem to mind.

I was shocked at how small the entire house was for such an important man as Harry S. Truman, but he was just as happy as could be with it.

Then I remembered the Presidential Suite at The Muehlebach Hotel where Margaret’s piano was. It was very tiny compared to today’s real Presidential Suites that are 2,200 square feet and larger. Harry, as he preferred to be called, was as calm and down-to-earth as could be.

He moved slowly as though his hip was bothering him.

Sarah was always there to help him if he did move from his chair.

Mr. Hitz introduced everyone, including the famed harpist Lloyd Lindroth who was performing at the hotel at that time. Harry seemed to remember him as though he had heard him before.

Lindroth reminded him that when he was in Washington he performed a concert in the East Room and Harry re-

Producer’s continued on page 5

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weeklyBLOTTER From Raytown Police Department

Incidents from 12/22/15 to 12/28/15 12/22/2015 01:01:21 569.030A - ROBBERY 2ND/ STRONGARM/CONVENIENCE STORE (F) 9400 block E 350 HWY

12/22/2015 08:27:15 28.137 - CITY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION 5700 block STERLING AVE

28.137 - CITY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION 9400 block E 66 TER 12/22/2015 12:15:37 570.030A - STEALING/OVER

12/22/2015 09:12:58

Timeline continued from page 1

Abuse continued from page 1 detainee housing, access to mental health and other services, employee retention and training, and other issues related to detainee and staff welfare, including conditions at the facility. The task force is scheduled to present its

Art continued from page 1 main sponsors were just super happy with the event and with the turnout.”

Five food and drink trucks accompanied 20 artist’s booths while several bands warmed up the crowd for the headliner: “Brewer and Shipley.” Turner estimates 6,000 to 7,000 people attended the festival throughout the day.

Stormwater continued from page 2 used in the future.

The tax, which has generated approximately $227,968 for the parks department this fiscal year, was approved by voters in 2003 to exclusively fund parks. In 2010, the tax was up for renewal and the ballot language was amended by the Board of Aldermen to include

findings and recommendations to Sanders and the Jackson County Legislature on or before Nov. 2.

“We are fortunate to have the FBI helping with an investigation at the detention center,” Sanders said. “At the same time we want to be sure we do everything we

can internally, and through the task force, make sure our focus is where it should be.”

Sanders asked corrections staff to alert both state and federal investigators when learning of possible excessive use of force incidents at the jail.

“We had some really good artists out,” Turner said. “The Independence Artists Association, the Raytown Artists Association had really strong art booths.”

“We changed the layout.

We had been doing different placement with artists and the stage,” Turner said. “We moved the stage out on the peninsula of the pond and that increased our viewing area to most of the park. Be-

fore, as in 2014, we had about half the viewing space just because of the location of the stage. That goes back to how many people were there.

“In 2015 it more than doubled the viewing area and we filled it. That was a great sign to see that worked out well.

I went to the very north end of the park and looked across the park and you could see the stage over the top of everybody’s head.”

stormwater as one of the potential uses for the revenue. However, no split in revenue was laid out in the ballot language.

The main driving force being the formation of the joint committee is a time shortage, as the city department heads are in the process of penning the 2015-2016 budget so it can be adopted by Oct. 31. City Administrator Mahesh Sharma said the 2014-2015 budget, by

state statute, would be used for the upcoming fiscal year if the board failed to approve a budget by Oct. 31.

“It would be a mess,” Sharma said.

Mayor Mike McDonough said he plans to form the ad hoc committee, which will comprise members of both boards and dissolve when its goal is met, as soon as possible.

$500/ALL OTHER THEFTS (F) 9800 block E 73 ST 12/22/2015 13:42:42 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report

Teen continued from page 2 and Fletcher’s infant son.

Rollins was a student at Raytown High School until 2013 but did not graduate and would’ve turned 19 this month. Fletcher was a senior at Raytown South High School.

According to police documents, police found the three victims deceased in a home in the 5900 block of E. 84thStreet at approximately 9:25 p.m.

Sept. 8. No shell casings were found at the scene.

“I want to thank police for their quick action to bring justice to all,” said Richard Fletcher, Bianca Fletcher’s

Rock Island continued from page 2 Lee’s Summit spurred by trailheads and transit stops.

Imagine connecting to the Katy Trail so that you can ride a bike from the Truman Sports Complex to the St. Louis Arch.”

KCATA will provide part of the funding to acquire the corridor. The KCATA Board

6500 block RAYTOWN RD 12/22/2015 16:36:55 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 8600 block EVANSTON AVE

Scan to Read or Visit raytowneagle.com/news/ category/blotter/

father. “That’s what I can say. This is for all. Not just my family. My daughter and grandson were precious. We are hurting and angry but we are grateful justice is being sought for my daughter and grandson. Regarding Shannon, as a father, I approved of Shannon – he was a very good influence on my daughter.

We will miss him. I praise God that the police acted so quickly.”

The parents of Shannon Rollins issued the following statement: “Shannon was our heart.

Our child was a wonderful young man, full of life. He loved everyone. He tried

help those he could. Each of us needs to teach our kids how to solve problems without senseless violence, without resorting to a gun. Shannon was determined, he was talented – he wanted to be a dancer. The loss is unbearable for us, but we will find strength in God. And the light of the world is just a little more dim because Shannon’s light no longer burns.”

During police interviews, Nelson said he was asleep most of the day and only left his residence to pick up and relative. He denied any involvement in the shooting.

He is being held on a $1 million bond.

of Commissioners approved the cooperative agreement at a meeting shortly before the announcement.

“All major issues involving the acquisition of the Rock Island corridor have been agreed to. We anticipate having a final agreement very soon” said Sanders. “In addition, $10 million in federal funds has already been

set aside to help clear the way for future construction on the trail.”

The corridor extends from the Truman Sports Complex southeast to Lee’s Summit.

With plans already in place to extend the Katy Trail from Windsor to Pleasant Hill, only a small gap will remain to connect the corridor with the Katy Trail.

Kansas City is blue

NOV 6

OCT 30

Salon owner charged with murder, arson in fire that killed KC firefighters

A Kansas City woman was charged Oct. 27 with arson and two counts of murder for starting a fire in a building on Independence Avenue that resulted in the deaths of Kansas City Fire Department firefighters Larry Leggio and John Mesh on Oct. 12.

Thu Hong Nguyen, 43, faces one count of first-degree arson and two counts of second-degree murder or felony murder, which is when a death occurs while a felony is carried out.

According to court records, a federal fire investigator for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives stated that he, as an expert in fire origin and causes, believes the fire on Oct. 12 originated in the northeast corner of the LN Salon and Spa at 2614 Independence Ave. An Investigation estab-

Tuesday was a blue day for Kansas City, but the mood was anything but grave as an estimated 800,000 Royals fans and supports gathered along

John Mesh

Larry Leggio

lished that Nguyen was the last occupant of the salon on the night of the fire. She also told investigators she received insurance proceeds from other recent fires.

She is currently in custody, Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker said during a press conference Tuesday.

She is being held on a $2 mil-

lion bond.

Hundreds of supporters lined Blue Ridge Boulevard for funeral processions for Mesh and Leggio, 13- and 17year veteran firefighers, as the men were buried in the first responder memorial garden at Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Raytown.

Timeline continued on page 8

the team’s victory parade route and around Union Station for the 2015 World Series Champion rally. The Royals wrapped up its season with a

Game 5 victory over the New York Mets, securing the teams second World Series Championship and first since 1985.

DEC 25

Co. Executive Mike Sanders resigning at year’s end Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders announced Dec. 22 his res-

ignation from the county effective Dec. 31. Sanders has been with the county

since 2002 when he was the county’s prosecutor.

Sanders continued on page 6

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Producer’s continued from page 4 membered it well, even naming a song he performed on the harp. Bessie chimed in with, “I stayed home here in Independence. Didn’t care too much for the politics or D.C.” The visit lasted all of possibly 15 to 20 minutes and Mr. Hitz spoke to the president about the days when he used The Muehlebach Hotel as his Midwest White House and that brought back lots of memories for Truman. He said it was his favorite hotel of all.

Sarah offered everyone a

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drink, but Mr. Hitz felt like it was time to go so he graciously thanked the president for taking the time. As we all stood the president began telling us about the day he arrived back home in Independence from Washington and the crowds that awaited him to welcome him.

He said “there must have been thousands in that tiny square down there.” And, he pointed at photographs on the wall. Then, he pointed at a photo of him sitting at the desk in The Oval Office. He said, “This was the first day in my Oval Office. We called it FDR’s Oval Office before that.”

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Scan Code To Read Details or Visit RaytownEagle.com/news/ job-listings/ It appeared to me that the president had some problems remembering some things people asked him, but Bessie or Sarah would cover up for him and change the subject to something he would know.

I was kind of sad to see him and Bessie in that small home, not able to hold eight or 10 people in the largest room. It seemed as though he deserved so much more than that. From what I understood he was receiving no protection, but then we did see several Secret Service agents out front as we entered. Truman had turned down the pension he was offered, like every

other President received, and got only his pension from being in the service, something like $112.50 a month. In later years Congress passed a law that would give him and every other president a lot more money.

Just as humble as can be, Truman led us to the door and saying, “You all come back to visit us anytime. We love visitors, Bessie and I.” We all left the Truman house in Independence and all we talked about on the way back to the hotel was how dark it was inside and how small the living space was, but both of them were as happy as could be. Truman never wanted to

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take anything from the government unless he earned it, and when it came to pensions and payments of any kind, he didn’t feel he earned that.

It was a very uneventful visit, but one I’ll never forget.

The humble attitude of this man, as important as he was in American history, was a pleasant shock to me. As we shook hands he said, “I’m happy as can be being here with Bessie and no problems of the world on my shoulders. I love Independence, Missouri.”

Next week we’ll cover another president I met. We had a lot of conversation. Un-

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til next week, stay happy to all and have a wonderful and Happy New Year.

George Michaud was a talent agent/manager in Burbank, California for nearly four decades with his own talent agency, GMA. Michaud booked hundreds of actresses and actors/ musicians, major concerts around the world and has been responsible for launching the careers of many notable names in television, motion pictures and on the Broadway stage. Michaud currently is semi-retired, still has a hand in show biz projects from New York to Las Vegas as consultant to entertainment venues and new talents as well as seasoned professionals.

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Friday, January 1, 2016

Obituaries Robert A. Eisele Robert A. Eisele, of Liberty, died Dec 23, 2015, in Olathe, at the age of 62.

While attending Raytown High School, Rob worked as a copy boy at the Kansas City Star. After graduating from the University of MissouriKansas City, he became a reporter and later was a contributing reviewer for area plays and theater. He also held a master’s degree from Webster University. Rob was director of communications at William Jewell College in Liberty for 23 years. He spent a semester teaching at Harlaxton College in England.

After he retired from William Jewell, he was working for Kansas Kids @Gear Up program, helping foster children achieve the opportunity to go to college. Rob’s love of theater began at an early age inspired by play with his grandmother, Grace Bartlett.

He worked at Starlight Theatre and was involved in its Blue Star Awards. He also

volunteered as a Big Brother to a boy in whom he instilled a love of theater. Additionally, he delivered for Mealson-wheels. He is survived by his mother, Ferne Eisele, of Overland Park; nephews, Andrew Mason, of Cincinnati, and Derek Mason, who is continuing his education in Switzerland; and cousins, Lynn (Colin) Clark, Leah Bartlett, Dave (Deborah) Bartlett, and Carol Edwards. He also is survived by numerous close friends, including Joanne Bell, Tim Ackerman, and Clark Morris. Several families were really close to him, and all referred to him as Uncle Rob. Rob was a lifelong animal lover and pet owner, and leaves his dogs, Lucky and Riley. Rob was preceded in death by his father, Carl Eisele, and his brother, Dana Eisele. A memorial service will be held at 3:30pm on Jan 4th at Peters Theater on the campus of William Jewell College; burial is private. In

lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Great Plains SPCA or to the Robert Eisele Gear Up Student fund, Wichita State University Foundation, 1845 Fairmont, Wichita, KS 67269-0002, www.foundation.wichita. edu Charter Funerals, 816921-5555.

Ronald Dale Jenkins Ronald Dale Jenkins, 78, of Raytown, MO passed away December 25, 2015.

Visitation was held on Tuesday, December 29th at Newcomer’s Floral Hills Funeral Home from 6-8 pm. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, December 30th at Bethel Baptist Church, 2406 S. State Route 291, Independence, MO 64057 at 2:00 pm. Burial followed at the Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Ron was born on November 2, 1937 in Creighton, Missouri. He earned a master’s degree in teaching. He taught math from 1959 - 1991 in the Raytown School Dis-

trict and continued teaching math at Longview Community College throughout his retirement. He was an active member with the Raytown Retired Teachers Assoc. In his free time, he volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, Raytown Shepherds Center Meals on Wheels, REAP and he enjoyed tutoring with the Youth Friends. Ron was preceded in death by his first wife Laura Jenkins, parents Frances Marie & Roy Allen Jenkins & brother Dwight Jenkins. He is survived by his wife Sharon Jenkins, daughters Amy Zumwalt, Rhonda Moon (Rex), Melissa Jenkins (Mark Gratz), Danita Miller (Bob), sons Jeffrey Jenkins (Carrie), Donald Lemmons (Christina), Joseph Griffin (Julia), 16 grandchildren & 3 great grandchildren. Condolences may be left at www. floralhillsfuneralhome.com.

Arr.: Newcomer’s Sons Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd., KCMO 64133 (816) 353-1218. New-

comer’s Floral Hills Funeral Home & Cemetery, Dignity Memorial.

Luther Holland, Jr. Luther was born on January 15, 1957 and passed away on Friday, December 18, 2015. Luther was a resident of Raytown, Missouri at the time of his passing.

He was married to D. Jane. A memorial service will be held January 2nd 2016 at 2 PM with a visitation from 1:00 - 2 PM at 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd. Raytown MO. Glenn H. Lass, Jr Glenn H. Lass, Jr, 69 Raytown passed December 27, 2015. Memorial service was 10:30am Dec 31, First UMC, Blue Springs. Private Disposition. Arr. Chapel of Memories Funeral Home 816- 4634030.

Mark Alan Shapiro Mark Alan Shapiro, 55, Kansas City, Mo., passed away surrounded by his

family, December 22, 2015.

He was the only child of Maurice and Carol Shapiro was born February 9, 1960, in Kansas City. The father of Damon Alan Shapiro and Kasey Ann King. Mark graduated from Raytown South High School. His favorite interests were Rock and Roll, women, fast cars and smooth Harleys.

Betty Jean Shrader Betty was born on September 29, 1925 and passed away on Friday, December 25, 2015. Betty was a resident of Raytown, Missouri at the time of her passing.

Services for Jean were held at the Lake Lotawana Community United Methodist Church at 3:00 pm Wednesday December 30th.

Visitation took place the same day starting at 2:30. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Lake Lotawana Community United Methodist Church memorial fund or St. Jude’s Hospital.

Raytown Community Calendar EVENTS Kansas City Area Bluegrass Music Club Jan. 1, 6 pm – 10 pm Blue Ridge United Methodist Church, 5055 Blue Ridge Blvd.

The club performs a free live stage show of acoustic music and bluegrass jamming. The hat is passed to cover rent. Food concessions provided by the church.

KCABMC was formed for the support, entertainment and preservation of bluegrass, country, and Gospel music.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Jan. 7 - 4:30 pm Raytown Quality Schools Wellness Center, 10301 E. 350 Highway Raytown Chamber, elected officials and community will celebrate the grand opening with a ribbon cutting.

Southeast Enterprises Holiday Light Recycling Drive Nov. 14 – Jan. 16, 2016 Sponsor the Holiday Lights Recycling Drive or drop off your lights at any of participating locations. Recycling lights helps pay wages of developmental disabilities and diverts solid waste from local landfills. The drive runs from November 14, 2015 through January 16th, 2016.

Check out where to find your local drop site visit www. kcrecyclelights.com.

Chess Free Play Jan. 9, 2016, 1 pm Play chess, learn the basics, brush up on your chess skills, challenge other players at Free Chess Play at the Library. The Raytown Branch, in collaboration with the Raytown High School Chess Team coaches, will be hosting chess on the second Saturday of the month from 1-3 p.m. Chess boards and chess pieces will be provid-

ed. All ages - from elementary to high school students, and adults are welcome to play. (All ages) Registration is required. (Ages 6 and up) Registration is required.

Basic Yoga January 13, 20 & 27, 10 am MCPL Raytown, 6131 Raytown Rd. If you have always wanted to try yoga, this is your chance. Join in this threeweek restorative class with slow-paced stretching, some simple breathing exercises, and perhaps seated meditation. This is a good place to learn basic poses, relaxation techniques and to become comfortable with yoga. All levels welcome. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat and/or towel.

(For adults) Registration is required.

2016 MLK Multicultural Celebration in Raytown Jan. 17, 3 pm Graceway, 5460 Blue Ridge Cut-off This MLK celebration is not one to miss. Sponsored by Barker Memorial Cathedral of Praise Community Outreach, Graceway, the Raytown Chamber of Commerce, the Raytown Community Interfaith Alliance and the City of Raytown’s Human Relations Commission.

MCPL Book Group Jan. 19, 6:30 pm Jan. 21, 10 pm MCPL Raytown, 6131 Raytown Rd. Book to read and discuss: The Invention of Wings by Sue Monk Kidd. Audio books available on this title.

Professor I Drop, the Juggling Scientist Jan. 23, 11 pm MCPL Raytown, 6131 Raytown Rd. Jay Cady combines his love

of science with circus skills in this interactive workshop.

Topics include famous scientists, potential energy, density, and chart making.

The big finale is the “Four Box Mystery.” (Ages 8 and up) Registration is required.

ORGANIZATION MEETINGS Candlelight Quilters of Raytown Monthly: Third Thursday at 7:00-9:00 pm Show-Me Quilting, 6221 Blue Ridge Boulevard, Raytown Plaza Open to all quilters. Call 816353-9366 for more information KIWANIS Club of Raytown Three Trails http://moark4.com/raytown/ For meeting dates and location, call 816-737-9955

St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 9349 E 65th St. Contact: RaytownCmmunityBand@gmail.com

6108 Blue Ridge Blvd.

Visitors welcome

Raytown Chamber of Commerce http://raytownchamber.com/ 5909 Raytown Trafficway (816) 353-8500

Raytown Historical Society http://raytownhistoricalsociety.org Monthly: First Monday at 10:00 am Raytown Historical Museum, 9705 E. 63rd Street.

Raytown Democratic Association Monthly: Third Thursday at 7:00pm Come early (at 6:00 pm) to dine and make new friends!

Las Chili’s, 6210 Raytown Trfwy

Raytown New Day AL-Non Weekly: Wednesdays at 10:00 am Blue Ridge Trinity Lutheran Church, 5757 Blue Ridge Blvd. Enter at the back door.

Everyone welcome!

(816) 353-5446

Raytown Garden Club Monthly: First Tuesdays at 10:00 am (Feb.-Nov.) Raytown Christian Church,

RAYTOWN TOPS - Chapter #0255 Weekly: Tuesdays at 9:00 am-10:45 am

Loma Vista Baptist Church, 8622 Blue Ridge Blvd. All are welcome to TOPS, Take Off Pounds Sensibly. For more information, call Betty at 816-356-6788 or Faye at 816-358-4350 Raytown Women of Today Monthly: Third Monday at 7:00 pm http://raytownwot.wix.com/ raytownwomenoftoday Club Room at Raytown HyVee, 9400 E. 350 Hwy. Add your own event by registering for Events Calendar access at www.RaytownEagle. com or email Events@ RaytownEagle.com

Marguerite McNair DAR Chapter http://www.mssdar.org/mmcnair Monthly:Second Monday at 6:30 pm (Sept.–June) Raytown Amateur Radio Club http://k0gq.com Monthly: Fourth Thursday at 7:30 pm Community of Christ, 6231 Manning Avenue Raytown Artists Association Monthly: Third Thursday at 6:00 pm St. Paul’s Church of the Nazarene Gymnasium, 8500 E 80th Terr. All artists (over 18) welcome.

Raytown Arts Council http://raytownarts.org Raytown Community Symphonic Band rehearsals: All musicians welcome!

Weekly: Thursday from 6:45 pm-8:15 pm

Sanders continued from page 6 Sanders, 48, was elected as county executive in 2006 and won re-elections in 2010 and 2014.

The county’s charter calls for an outgoing county executive to name his or her interim replacement.

Jackson County offered no official statement on the resignation. Sanders released a statement through O’Neill Marketing and Events in which he said he’s resigning to spend more time with his family.

Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders tendered his resignation from the county effective Dec. 31.

Check the Raytown-Brooking Eagle for coverage of local schools & students

CLUES ACROSS 1. Engine additive 4. Soluble ribonucleic acid 8. Subdue !0. One long, three short 11. Morally bad 12. With collapsible shelter 13. Central church parts 15. Summer shoes 16. Intestinal 17. Transgressors 18. Meeting expectations 21. Clutch 22. Autonomic nervous system 23. What you can repeat immediately after perceiving it 24. Favorite summer sandwich 25. An accountant certified by the state

26. Cologne 27. Norma Jean Baker 34. Galaxies 35. Bluish greens 36. Detected 37. Having 3 dimensions 38. Made level 39. The destroyer (Hindu) 40. Uncovered 41. Ooze slowly 42. Aerie 43. Point midway between S and SE

tapering 12. Atomic #73 14. Schilling (abbr.)

15. Female sibling 17. Long sandwich 19. In a way, necessitated 20. Mayan people of SW Guatemala 23. Cleaned up 24. Prohibit 25. Upright cupboard 26. Cyclone center 27. Metric linear units CLUES DOWN 28. Young male 1. Having beautiful natural 29. Securities market views 30. City across from 2. Fanafuti is the capital Dusseldorf 3. Shrub used for hedges 31. Animal disease 4. Polishing tools 32. Mount of __ east of 5. Slow down Jerusalem 6. Christmas carols 33. Get free 7. & & & 34. Variable stars 9. Sound of sheep or goat 36. One point N of NE 10. A long flag, often Solution on page 8

Friday, January 1, 2016

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7

Entertainment Guide

‘Star Wars’ keeps rolling; worst of ‘15

By Livingston Brees Well, 2015 is finally over and, in the opinion of this writer, the best was saved for last.

Since its release two weeks ago, “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” or “TFA” as we’ll call it for the rest of the column, has shattered just about every box office record ever.

To date, “TFA” has earned an estimated $544.6 million domestically more than $1.09 billion globally, becoming the fastest film to do so (12 days).

Last weekend alone, “TFA” secured the biggest Christmas Day of all time, raking in $49.3 million. It also surpassed “The Dark Knight” to become the fifth biggest domestic movie of all time. Even more impressively, “TFA” crossed $500 million domestically in only 10 days, shattering the previous mark of 17 days, set by “Jurassic World.”

When it opened domestically Dec. 18, “TFA” snagged $247.9 million, the biggest domestic debut of all time with $57 million of coming from Thursday previews, setting a new record. Those figures added to Friday’s total of $119.1 million, a new singleday record. “TFA” is also the only movie to cross the $100 million domestic mark in a single day. “TFA” also has the single biggest Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday of all time.

The J.J. Abrams flick also snagged $529 million in its first weekend worldwide, without the film being released in China, the world’s secondlargest movie market. Despite not opening in China, “TFA” topped “Jurassic World,” which earned $524.9 million

for the biggest global debut in history. (FYI, “Jurassic World” earned $100 million from China). “TFA” will open in China Jan. 9.

Internationally, The Force Awakens also set new records for the biggest opening weekends in the United Kingdom, Australia, Russia, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Austria, Poland, Denmark, Romania, Hungary, Bulgaria, Croatia, Ukraine, Iceland, Serbia, and New Zealand.

Earlier this week, “TFA” added another estimated $31.5 million to bring the scifi franchise up to a gross of about $572.6 million and on its way to $600 million by New Year’s Eve. With another holiday weekend on its way, it’s a safe bet the $700 million mark is a foregone conclusion, and “TFA” will pass “Marvel’s The Avengers” and “Jurassic World” on the domestic list. “TFA” still has some work to do to catch “Titanic” at $658,672,302 and the $760,507,625 of “Avatar.”

While I totally believe it will topple the domestic mark, the international mark will be a bit more difficult. Currently at No. 15, it needs to more than double its current gross to catch “Avatar” at 2.788 billion.

That’s billion, with a “B.” As cool as the records are, I’m just glad we finally have a great “Star Wars” film. I know I’ll be seeing at least two or three more times (Already been three times) before the run is over.

That being said, there won’t be a new movie review this week due to the simple fact I can’t go see another flick knowing there is a “Star Wars”

movie playing at my local theater, with the lone exception being Quentin Tarantino’s “Hateful Eight,” slated to be released next week.

So instead, here is a list of the worst movies I was forced to sit through last year due to poor judgment in friends, boredom or bad luck with the ladies. And by the way, I won’t be bashing “50 Shades of Grey,” which I’m sure is terrible. I was lucky enough to not see it.

“San Andreas” — A Guilty Pleasure. From the opening credits you must decide how much disbelief you’re willing to suspend in order to enjoy a movie. Make no mistake, “San Andreas” is truly a bad film, but so bad it becomes a guilty pleasure.

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson plays a Los Angeles Fire Department search and rescue pilot who happens to be in the air when a movement on the San Andreas Fault triggers a devastating, magnitude 9 earthquake, the largest in recorded history. “The Rock” must navigate the destruction from L.A. to San Francisco to save his estranged wife and their daughter.

Sadly, “The Rock” doesn’t drop his signature WWE move, “The People’s Elbow,” on the earthquake. This is a typical “disaster” flick, which I always enjoy, only this film is much, much dumber. Perfect for being snowed in and drunk this winter.

“Jupiter Ascending” — Last Gasp from Former Greats.

There aren’t many things sadder than seeing filmmakers who had all the potential in world finally fall to the bot-

tom of the well (I’m looking at you, M. Night Shyamalan).

Way back in 1999, Andy and (then Larry) Lana Wachowski thrilled us with “The Matrix.”

They followed that up with two sub-par sequels, a so-badit’s-good “Speed Racer” movie and the big budget bomb “Cloud Atlas.”

Earlier this year we got “Jupiter Ascending,” which might be in my top 10 worst movies all time. The always hot Mila Kunis plays a maid named Jupiter Jones, who is really the reincarnation of someone who is next in line for an extraordinary inheritance that could alter the balance of the cosmos. As her cosmic “family” attempts to snag the inheritance for themselves, she meets Caine, played by poor Channing Tatum, a genetically engineered hunter.

I could say more about the plot, but it won’t matter. Stay as far away from this piece of trash as humanly possible. I’m ashamed and embarrassed I watched this in the theater, and will never get that two hours and seven minutes back.

“Terminator Genisys” — What-Were-They-Thinking Reboot. Full disclosure, I loved the “Terminator” movies, even “Rise of the Machines” and “Salvation,” but this may have killed a formerly great franchise. The thing that really makes me maddest is that the first act of the film is great and could have opened the door for some really fun and unique things in more movies.

When the leader of the human resistance against Skynet, Jason Clarke’s John Conner, sends (*Spoiler*) his father Kyle Reese, played by the franchise

killer himself Mr. Jai Courtney, back to 1984 (the setting of the original “Terminator”) to protect his mother, Sarah, played by “Game of Thrones” standout Emilia Clarke, from a Terminator assassin, he gets quite a shock. You know, aside from time travel. Sara is no longer the scared waitress we met in the original film, but closer to the slayer we met in “T2.” In addition to being a new version of the character, Sara has her own Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger. After our heroes join forces, they must embark on a new mission to reset the future.

Not only does “Genisys” not capitalize on the cool groundwork of the first act, but it proceeds to not only kill the franchise but somehow negate all four movies that came before it. If you’re a die-hard fan of the series, like myself, you’ll at least give it a chance.

Fair warning: prepare to say “Hasta la vista, baby” to a formerly great franchise.

“The Seventh Son” — The Dude does not Abide. There are times when you can smell a bad movie a mile away. Delays in production, reshoots, rewrites and changing release dates are all red flags, and they all happened to “The Seventh Son.” At the end of the day I didn’t really care because Jeff Bridges and Julianne Moore, the stars of one of my favorite movies ever, “The Big Lebowski,” were reuniting on screen for the first time in 18 years.

A supernatural champion named Master Gregory (Bridges) defeated Mother Malkin (Moore), an evil witch many years before. Now, she

has escaped imprisonment and summoned her followers to unleash her wrath on humanity. The only thing standing in her way is Gregory and the young Tom Ward, played

by Ben Barnes, who is the seventh son, of a seventh son, of a seventh son, or something foolish like that.

Oh man, this movie was horrid. Not even the awesomeness of Jeff Bridges could save this piece of junk. The other night, I was flipping through the movie channels and saw it was on. I seriously considered canceling my subscription so I’d never have to even run the risk of accidentally seeing it again.

Dishonorable mentions: • “Vacation” — As much as it tried to recapture the spirit of the original, Ed Helms and Christina Applegate just fell flat. And they completely wasted Chevy Chase in a cameo.

• “Furious 7” — Yes, the way they wrote the late Paul Walker out of the movie was extremely well done, but that doesn’t change the fact the movie was trash. An entertaining popcorn movie, but still trash.

• “Fantastic Four” — Much like “Terminator Genisys,” I loved, loved, loved the first half of this flick. However, after the studio took the film away from director Josh Trank, it became a mess, and you can totally tell the exact moment this thing falls apart. It’s a shame, too; it could have been really good.

• “Taken 3” — I found myself wishing someone would come in the theater and take me. An uninspired, franchisekilling movie.

Sensible sauces for a healthy new year Sacrificing some of your favorite foods doesn’t have to be part of your New Year, new you strategy. In many dishes, it’s the sauces that pack on the calories you’re trying to avoid. Instead of ditching those dishes completely, look for swaps that let you enjoy delicious, better-for-you dinners.

Pasta is notoriously a diet danger zone, but dressing up the noodles with plenty of flavorful ingredients and switching out dense, highcalorie sauces for tasty substitutes will let you keep enjoying savory pasta dishes while you work toward a healthier lifestyle.

Even creamy pasta recipes are possible with the right substitutions. In this Creamy Tomato Ranch Pappardelle with Caramelized Onions recipe, thick cut pappardelle noodles are tossed in a creamy tomato ranch sauce made with Sabra’s Farmer’s Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip for a healthier version of a decadent dish. Or for a delicious dish with a spicy kick, try

Spicy Chipotle Hummus Pasta this Spicy Chipotle Hummus Pasta, which gets its rich and creamy flavor from swapping traditional pasta sauce for Sabra’s Chipotle Hummus.

Find more creative ideas to swap your way to healthy eating at sabra.com.

Spicy Chipotle Hummus Pasta

Ingredients: • One pound penne pasta • One teaspoon paprika • 1/2 teaspoon oregano • 1/2 teaspoon thyme • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt • One pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts • Two tablespoons olive oil

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Creamy Tomato Ranch Pappardelle with Caramelized Onions • Two garlic cloves, minced • 1/2 onion (about 1 cup), diced • One red bell pepper, diced • 1/2 cup chicken stock • One package Sabra Spicy Chipotle Hummus • One bunch Swiss chard (about six cups), chopped Preparation: Bring large pot of water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain.

Meanwhile in small bowl, mix paprika, oregano, thyme and salt. Rub spice mixture

over chicken breasts.

In large saute pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook five to eight minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Turn burner to low and return pan to stove. Sweat garlic and onions for five minutes, or until softened.

Turn heat to medium and add red bell pepper. Cook for another five minutes, or until soft. Slowly stir in chicken stock and hummus to form a creamy sauce. Add Swiss chard. Cover and cook until wilted, two to three minutes.

Stir in drained pasta and cooked chicken.

Serves: six.

Creamy Tomato Ranch Pappardelle with Caramelized Onions

package directions (about eight to nine minutes).

Drain pasta then place back in pot. Immediately add tomato sauce mixture to pot and toss until pasta is coated.

Transfer to serving dish, top with caramelized onions and garnish with parsley.

Serves: four to six Preparation time: five minutes Cook time: 45 minutes

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil • Four medium yellow onions, sliced • One container (10 ounces) Sabra Farmer’s Ranch Greek Yogurt Dip • 1/2 can peeled tomatoes (seven ounces) • One pound pappardelle • parsley Preparation: In large skillet over medium-high heat, warm olive oil.

Add onions; reduce heat to medium and cook until caramelized, about 45 minutes, stirring frequently.

Place Greek yogurt dip and tomatoes in food processor and process until fully incorporated. Set aside.

During last 10 minutes of onions cooking, bring large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add pappardelle and cook until al dente according to

Got a favorite, family or awardwinning recipe?

We’d love to share it with Raytown.

E-mail to editor@ raytowneagle.com or give us a call at 313-0202

Ingredients:

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By Kris Collins

|

Friday, January 1, 2016

First snow hits Raytown at close of 2015

Raytown Public Works Department employees had their work cut out for them Sunday evening as the first snow of the year began to fall.

The rain and sleet that preceded the snowfall posed complications, according to Public Works Assistant Director Kati Horner Gonzalez.

“That is a challenge because we were unable to pretreat,” she said. “If we put down salt or beet juice, it’s just going to get washed away. We had to wait to start

responding to the sleet until after the sleet began. Because of that the ice was landing on already wet pavement and that caused it to bond to the street very easily, and just because of the transition of how the storm occurred it made it harder to keep the roads clear continuously.”

Horner Gonzalez said crews were in-house Sunday evening and began preparing for a winter weather event at 6 p.m. Crews continued CLUES ACROSS to clear snow until Tuesday 1.

Engine additive afternoon. The city used ap4.

Soluble proximatelyribonucleic 300 tons of salt to thaw icy roads, she said. acid

“Snow removal is an extremely important aspect of public works operations and we take it very seriously, and do everything we can to keep our roads safe for all of our residents and those who come to our city,” Horner Gonzalez said. “And our guys work extremely hard at keeping the roads safe for everyone.”

According to information from the National Weather the entire Kansas 26.Service, Cologne City Metro Area received ap27.proximately Norma Jean Baker three inches of 34.snow Galaxies Monday.

tapering 12. Atomic #73 14. Schilling (abbr.)

35. Bluish greens 15. Female sibling Photo by Kris Collins 8. Subdue 36. Detected 17. Long Nancy Lyon, ansandwich employee of Fox’s Drug Store, shovels snow from the sidewalk outside the business Monday afternoon.

DEC !0. One long, three short 37. Having 3 dimensions 19. In a way, 25 Timeline 11. Morally bad 38. Made level necessitated continued from page12.

5 With collapsible 39. The destroyer (Hindu) 20. Mayan people of 40. Uncovered shelter SW Guatemala 13. Central church parts 41. Ooze slowly 23. Cleaned up More than two years after 15. Summer shoes 42. Aerie 24. Prohibit the closing of the YMCA on 16. Intestinal 43. Point midway between 25. Upright cupboard Missouri 350, the building 17. Transgressors S and SE 26. Cyclone center will be open to the public Jan. 18.

Meeting 27. Metric linear units 4 as the Raytown C-II School expectations CLUES DOWN 28. Young male District opens its highly anticipated Raytown Schools 21. Clutch 1. Having beautiful natural 29. Securities market Wellness Center.

22. Autonomic nervous views 30. City across from The wellness center has system 2. Fanafuti is the capital Dusseldorf been open to school district 23.

What you can 3.

Shrub used for hedges 31. Animal disease staff and faculty since late 4. Polishing tools 32. Mount of __ east of October, early November. repeat immediately Danielle Nixon, assistant after perceiving it 5. Slow down Jerusalem director of communications 24. Favorite summer 6. Christmas carols 33. Get free and community relations for according to Superintendent the facility is scheduled for 7. 4:30 & &p.m. & Jan. 7 at the well- 34. Variable stars sandwich the school district, said the Allan Markley.

25.

An accountant 9.

Sound of sheep A ribbon-cutting ceremoness center, locatedor at goat 10301 36. One point N of NE reception has been well so 350 Highway. ny marking certified by the the opening state of 10.E.A long flag, often far.

Raytown Schools Wellness Center to open Jan. 4

The facility houses a weightlifting area, cardio exercise area, exercise rooms for fitness classes, a common area, and more. The pool and community rooms are not yet open. No completion timeline is available for those projects.

The wellness center also houses a health clinic for district employees. The care clinic, in addition to being a free amenity for district staff and an asset in keeping quality staff members in the district, is also a cost-saving measure, through lower insurance rates for healthy employees.

The projected savings over five years is $2.6 million,

Solution continued from page 8

Happy New Year!

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