Raytown-Brooking Eagle, December 25, 2015

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Merry Christmas from Mayor McDonough

Photo by Kris Collins Dressed as one of the five kings from a spinoff song of the Biblical tale of Jesus’ birth performed by the Raytown Community Symphonic Band, Raytown Mayor Mike McDonough wished the community a merry Christmas during the band’s performance this past Sunday at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. Raytown Symphonic Community Band Director Eric Eckhoff, left, looks on.

“Reflecting on this year, as it draws to a close and all the things that go with those memories. Those that we have lost, the end of one era for me personally and the beginning of another chapter. A blessing of a new Granddaughter. Then there is the maddening chaos of terrorism and crime around the world.

But, the love I see in this world, especially in our town, in the everyday kindness and charity of people gives me pause to realize that no matter how hard evil tries to destroy, care and love overcome.

In this Christmas season, let us strive to treat one another well as in Christ’s love and further that caring all year long. May those who are burdened by loss and sorrow be refreshed by the caring of another.

The city, Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce, Raytown Arts Council, Raytown Community Symphonic

Band, school district and businesses are all working at improving life here. It gives me hope of great things to come. I wish to give a special thanks to the wonderful volunteers of the Main Street Association that make the downtown Raytown Christmas decorations and Mayor’s Christmas Tree lighting ceremony such a success. I also wish to acknowledge the other civic groups that are so vital to a place being a community, working together for the common good of this community and of the families that live, work and play here in our town.

May you find joy and peace in the season and may the New Year bring you all happiness, good health and good friendship. This is my Christmas wish for you.”

Mayor Mike McDonough

Raytown Central Middle wrestling team is all 3s

By Kris Collins The Raytown Central Middle School wrestling team just wrapped up its third season in school history. Next season will be Head Coach Joe Simpson’s third year in charge.

And, if you can believe it, there were three sets of identical twins on this year’s team.

Jesse and Jonathan Best, 13, have been wrestling for years, but this season was a first go at the sport for 12-year-olds Anthony and Nathan Mixon, and Thomas and Christian Elkin, 13.

“It always ensures you have a wrestling partner,” Jesse Best said.

He went on to say that nothing too odd happened over the course of the season that might have come from having three sets of identical twins (and Mark Williams, a fraternal twin) on the team, however, some referees fell victim to confusion. Best said one referee had a hard time awarding points when he and Jonathan wrestled each other.

“They have different wrestling shoes that they wear — one wear’s red (Jesse) and the other wear’s black (Jonathan) … I still call them

by Best,” Simpson said.

The relatively nascent middle school wrestling program has tak-

en big strides the past two years.

Simpson said the first year was a struggle, and the second year, during which he became head coach, came with many improvements.

He assigns much of the credit — 80 to 90 percent, to be exact — to Greg Beam and Chris Best, fathers of wrestlers who volunteered to help coach the team over the past two seasons.

“The wrestlers were no longer getting taken down to the mat and just laying (sic) there looking confused,” Simpson said. “We started working with them more on the fundamentals, building up to your base, doing sit-outs, doing standups, attacking form the neutral position, just fundamentals really strongly. The third year, we just enhanced on that.”

One notable milestone this season was the Platte County Invitational, in which the team placed second among 11 others. The team placed fourth the season before. Simpson said placing second against schools with long-standing wrestling programs speaks volumes for Raytown Central Middle’s team and its progress over three years.

Simpson said he is looking forward to taking over full-time next

Photo by Kris Collins Raytown Central Middle School Wrestling Head Coach Joe Simpson, left, stands with 5/6th of the identical twins on the team. From left to right are Thomas Elkin, Jesse Best, Anthony Mixon, Jonathan Best and Christian Elkin. (Nathan Mixon was sick and absent from school when the photo was taken.)

year as the volunteer coaches follow their children’s athletic careers out of the middle level.

“They laid an extremely solid foundation,” Simpson said. “The

foundation they’ve laid far exceeds anything I could have done myself … The foundation they’ve laid with me to help me with the basic fundamentals of wrestling has set a great

Co. Executive Mike Sanders resigning at year’s end

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

Gaveling In The New Courthouse Page 2

Jackson County Executive Mike Sanders announced Dec. 22 his resignation from the county effective Dec. 31. Sanders has been with the county since 2002 when he was the county’s prosecutor.

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.

Other news agencies have reported Jackson County Legislator Dennis Waits will be named Sanders’ replacement. If so, Waits will have to resign from his current position as third district representative.

The legislature will have 30 days to choose a replacement who will hold Waits’ position until the election next November.

Jackson County offered no official statement on the resignation. Sanders released a statement through O’Neill Marketing and Events. The following is his statement in full: “It is with a little bit of gladness

Holiday Surprise Page 2

and a little bit of sadness that I am announcing my resignation as Jackson County, effective December 31, 2015.

After 13 years in public life, I simply feel the time is right for me to return to the practice of law, and to be able to spend more and better time with my family – my wife, Georgia, and our two young, and very fast-growing sons, John and Patrick.

And, frankly, we thought, what better time than Christmas to start the new journey.

Know that I have very much appreciated and enjoyed the opportunity to serve the people of Jackson County. It has been incredibly challenging, stimulating and, ultimately, very rewarding to be able to work in concert with some excellent legislators and management professionals to rebuild the political, financial and administrative infrastructure of this great county. With the blessings and support of Jackson County’s 1,500

Sanders continued on page 2

tradition here at Central Middle School. They came in on their own

Wrestle continued on page 2

Bill punishing college athletes for protests withdrawn A bill punishing collegiate athletes on scholarships for participating in protests was withdrawn by the bill sponsor, state Rep. Rick Brattin, a Republican out of Harrisonville, Dec. 16, five days after the bill was filed.

Brattin did not return calls for comment to the Raytown-Brooking Eagle. House Bill 1743 had received criticism from some Kansas Cityarea state legislators before it was withdrawn. Brandon Ellington, district 22 representative, called it a

Bill continued on page 4

Savor The Holidays Page 7

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Friday, December 25, 2015

Gavels mark the end of renovations at Eastern Jackson County Courthouse

Photos courtesy Jackson County Communications Department Jackson County judges, personnel and elected officials “gavel-in” the newly renovated Eastern Jackson County Courthouse Dec. 17.

While a hammer has undoubtedly been used throughout the 13-month project, Jackson County appropriately chose to use gavels this Dec. 17 to show that renovations to the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse in Independence will be completed at year’s end.

Jackson County Executive

Mike Sanders joined 16th Circuit Presiding Judge Justine Del Muro, two of her predecessors— Marco Roldan and Stephen Nixon—and county legislators for a “gavel-in” ceremony to commemorate the courthouse’s reopening.

To handle the increasing number of cases being filed in the eastern part of the county,

the courthouse needed to be remodeled to create five additional courtrooms. Using existing revenues, the county incurred no new debt to fund the $7.3 million project. Other changes to the facility, originally built in 1956 and last remodeled in 1972, included building a new accessible entry, installing a new eleva-

tor, refurbishing the existing elevator and upgrading the heating, cooling and security systems.

“Once again we’ve taken an older facility and made it new again,” Sanders said.

When the Historic Truman Courthouse reopened on Independence Square in 2013 after a multi-year full restoration,

the county moved several of its offices there. That freed up space just a few blocks away in the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse to accommodate the new courtrooms.

“Thirteen months ago we broke ground to begin these vital renovations,” Sanders said. “With the support of the county legislature we once

again completed a muchneeded project with current revenues, on time and under budget.

“In the process we’ve assured cases filed in Eastern Jackson County can be heard in Eastern Jackson County, and in a timely fashion to keep the legal system’s wheels turning.”

Board of Education wraps up year end

By Diane Krizek There was some levity at the December meeting of the Raytown C-II School District Board of Education meeting, and rightly so given the holiday season. But the board has a number of major accomplishments under its belt this year, including the new

Sanders continued from page 1 loyal employees, we have accomplished almost everything I dreamed about and committed myself to when I first took office in 2007.

Although I will miss the ca-

Raytown South High School stadium and updating its school buildings financed by the no-tax-increase bond measure that voters passed last year. The communications department gave the district’s website a facelift with a new responsive site and launched a mobile app for parents, teachers and the community.

The new Raytown Schools Wellness Center will not only save taxpayers millions of dollars by reducing its employee health insurance costs but will also provide the community with a much needed community fitness center, a home for the high school swim teams and eliminate one more vacant property in Raytown. This

maraderie and the give and take of politics, it is gratifying to leave knowing that, by working together, we have been able to affect many positive changes and improvements that will benefit the taxpayers of Jackson County for many years to come.

The fact is, as I head home today to hang the old stockings with care, I can do so knowing that I am leaving Jackson County in good financial shape and in very capable hands.

Thank you, and Merry Christmas to all!”

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The Jackson County Detention Center is replicating the Angel Tree Program this year to treat more than 70 children of female inmates with Christmas gifts.

“Christmas time is a difficult time of year for people who are incarcerated and away from their families,” said the Rev. Gene Purtle, the detention center’s chaplain.

Angel Tree is an international program started several years ago by a prison fellowship. It provides Christmas gifts for the children of offenders.

“It is normally done in prisons and to my knowledge not normally done in jails because jails tend to have higher turnover, but we have a lot of people who will be here through the holiday,” Purtle said.

Midtown Baptist Temple is helping with the program and has offered to provide gifts for the children of the female county inmates. Wom-

Cinquain

Wrestle continued from page 1 freewill and volunteered their time to work with our wrestlers and work with the team. Everything they did for the team was amazing.”

but are not governed by a publicly elected school board, these bills are perceived by educators as an attempt to downgrade the public school system. Gov. Jay Nixon vetoed House Bill 42 in June.

Markley reported the introduction of two bills that directly influence school board control

The program is growing and Simpson said he’s excited to see how the team develops as more kids try their hand at the sport.

“Seeing the kids grow in the mats is just amazing,” he said. “They get out on the

mat and they’re lost, confused and scared, especially the first-year guys. They don’t know what’s going on.

By the third or fourth meet that we have, it’s amazing to see the growth in just that time period.”

en from the church recently accompanied Purtle to the corrections center where they explained the program and had inmates complete a form giving the names of the children, their age, sex and a suggested gift.

“We ended up with 72 kids and 27 moms that this church

is going to adopt,” Purtle said. “This is the first time we have ever done this so we just did our county ladies and we just have one church working with us so taking on 72 is really quite a bit. In the years to come if this all goes well maybe we will try to expand that and work with some other

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churches and provide for the children of some of the men as well.”

Families from the church will buy the gifts and deliver them on behalf of the moms.

The moms also had the opportunity to write a little note that will be put on a card for the children.

Photo courtesy Jackson County Department of Corrections Keisa Baker, Jackson County Detention Center program services supervisor, wraps presents for the children of inmates coming through visitation on Christmas Day.

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Superintendent’s legislative update Highlights of the meeting included Superintendent Allan Markley’s update on “onerous” state legislation. School districts

are watching Senate Bill 424 that deals with student transfer issues when districts are decertified, House Bill 42 that gives authority to transfer to charter schools and Senate Bill 764 allows charter schools in any district located within Jackson and St. Louis counties without restrictions. Because charters schools receive public funds

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“The attitude of our detainees improves when they know their children will be receiving Christmas presents from them,” said Joe Piccinini, director of corrections.

Laura Scott, assistant director of administration for the Jackson County Detention Center, said the program “gives the ladies a piece of mind and gives them an opportunity to participate.”

The detention center will also continue what has become an internal holiday tradition by donating gifts to the Penn Valley Criminal Justice Department, which, has chosen the children of inmates to help at Christmas for the past decade. Scott said the staff and students of the department donate gifts for the children that come through the center’s visitation area. They bring100 to 150 gifts for boys and girls of different ages and the center’s staff wraps them.

“We really appreciate the help from our community partners, specifically Mid Town Baptist Temple and Penn Valley Community College,” said Piccinini. “It makes a difference both for the children of the detainees and the detainees themselves knowing there is support in the community for them and their children.”

Friday, December 25, 2015

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Bites

Olathe man sentenced for armed bank robbery An Olathe, Kansas, man was sentenced to serve 11 years in prison Dec. 15 for the armed robbery of Bank of Weston, according to Tammy Dickinson, United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri.

Marcus Aurellius Moon, 30, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple to 11 years and three months in federal prison without parole.

On Aug. 11, 2015, Moon pleaded guilty to armed bank robbery and to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Moon admitted that he stole $26,427 from the Bank of Weston, located at 18255 45 Highway, on Oct. 22, 2014.

Moon entered the bank wearing a silver ski mask

and carrying a semi-automatic handgun. He walked up to a teller and demanded money.

Police saw Moon driving a vehicle that matched the description given in a broadcast and tried to stop it. However, Moon placed the vehicle in reverse, striking police vehicles and escaping. During Moon’s attempts to flee, an Atchison police officer fired his gun.

Moon was not struck and was able to escape. Atchison police pursued the suspect for several blocks until his vehicle got stuck in a residential area and Moon was taken into custody.

Officers found a loaded SCCY 9mm handgun inside the vehicle, along with a silver ski mask and the money taken from the bank.

Bites

Missouri State Fair receives international recognition The Missouri State Fair has been recognized as one of the best in the world by the International Association of Fairs and Expositions.

“The Missouri State Fair is the premier agriculture showcase in the state,” Fair Director Mark Wolfe said.

“It is outstanding to see the efforts of our fair commission and staff recognized on an international scale.”

During the recent 125th Annual International Association of Fairs and Expositions Convention’s Agricultural Awards ceremony, the Missouri State Fair was recognized for excellence as the winner of the Overall Judges Creative Award for its special agricultural educational event titled “Let’s

Talk Livestock,” a project implemented with the support of Missouri 4-H and Missouri FFA. The Fair also received first place honors for its overall program for agricultural exhibitors.

The Missouri State Fair received other first place wins for the fair’s overall program for commercial agricultural vendors, participatory and unique contests, and sponsorship continuity. Among the more than 30 honors received, the fair also earned recognitions for its communications and sponsorship efforts.

The 2016 Missouri State Fair will be held Aug. 11-21 in Sedalia. For more information on the Fair, and to view the full list of awards, visit www.mostatefair.com.

KCATA gets new chairman, interim CEO The Kansas City Area Transportation Authority will be under the guidance of Johnson County Commissioner Steve Klika as chairman of the board, while outgoing chairman Robbie Makinen takes on a new role.

Makinen is the KCATA’s newly appointed president and chief executive officer.

Klika and Makinen will take in new leadership roles after Joe Reardon announced last week he was stepping aside as the KCATA’s president and chief executive to lead the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s full speed ahead,” Makinen said. “We will not lose a step. We are focused on the future and are aiming high. We will continue to build on our accomplishments of the last year as we strive to become an agency that truly serves the entire Kansas City region. We have made transit and paratransit more accessible, more unified and easier for the community to understand.

“Already, we have regional bus fares. A single regional transit brand. A single regional transit web-

site. And new development opportunities. This is just a taste of what we hope is ahead,” he said.

Klika, who’s been on the KCATA Board since 2011, has been a transit advocate for many years. He served as administrator of the Central Oklahoma Transportation and Parking Authority from 1981 to 1993. He later was appointed to Johnson County Transit’s Board of Directors in 2005.

Makinen has served on the KCATA Board of Commissioners since 2007 and has been its chairman since 2011. Makinen has played an instrumental role in the KCATA’s emphasis on regional transit. He helped create the Regional Transit Coordinating Council, which maps out transit strategy for the region.

Other officers elected at the board meeting were: Daniel Serda, representing Kansas City, Kansas, will serve as vice chairman; Dennis Bixby, representing Leavenworth County, Kansas, will serve as treasurer; and Gary Mallory, representing Cass County, Missouri, will serve as secretary.

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Time for some New Year’s (financial) resolutions Submitted by George Koepp The countdown to 2016 has just about begun. If you’re like many people, you might be mulling over some New Year’s resolutions, such as hitting the gym more, learning a new language or taking a cooking class. All are worthy goals, but why not add some financial resolutions as well?

For example … … Pay yourself first. Even if you aren’t living “paycheck to paycheck,” you probably don’t have much trouble spending your money – because there’s always something that you or a family member needs, always a repair required for your home or your car, always one more bill to pay. But if you are going to achieve your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement,

you need to invest consistently. So before you pay everyone else, pay yourself first by having some money automatically moved from your checking or savings account each month into an investment. … Take advantage of your opportunities. If you have a 401(k) or similar plan at work, take full advantage of it. Contribute as much as you can afford – or at least enough to earn your employer’s match, if one is offered – and choose the mix of investments that give you the potential to achieve the growth you need at a level of risk with which you are comfortable. … Focus on the long term.

In the short term, you might be excused for not wanting to invest. The headlines are typically scary, the financial markets are frequently volatile and the future often

looks murky. Yet, if you can look past the uncertainties of today and keep your focus on tomorrow, you will find it easier to follow a disciplined investment strategy that gives you the opportunity to meet your long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement. …. Don’t be driven by fear. When the market is down, investors tend to react with fear. Specifically, they rush to sell their investments, afraid that if they don’t “cut their losses,” they might sustain even bigger ones. If you can get past this feeling, you may find that a down market can offer you the chance to buy quality investments at good prices. … Forget about the “hot stocks.” You’ll hear friends, co-workers and talking heads on television tout today’s “hot stocks.” But by the time you might hear

about them, they may have cooled off – and, in any case, they might not be appropriate for your needs. Forget about “getting rich quick in the market” – it probably won’t happen. True investment success requires patience and persistence. … Cut down on your debts. It’s easy to pile up debts, but a lot harder getting rid of them. Yet, if you can reduce your debt load even moderately, you’ll free up money you could use to invest. So look for ways to conserve, cut back and consolidate – it will be worth the effort.

Making these resolutions – and sticking to them – can help you as you work toward achieving your financial goals.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Metropolitan Community College nominated for Bellwether Award

After having been a finalist for the prestigious Bellwether award just a year ago, Metropolitan Community College and the Missouri Innovation Campus have again been nominated for the honor by the Community College Future’s Assembly.

The annual Bellwether award is sponsored by the University of Florida and the Community College Futures Assembly. The award recognizes outstanding and innovative programs at community colleges across the country.

“This is quite a testament to the level of collaboration generated between faculty, staff, industry partners and students,” said Kirk Nooks, president of Metropolitan Community College-Longview. “We are honored to be recognized in this manner. While I hope the second time is the charm, we are tickled to be in great company as a finalist.”

The Bellwether bestows awards in three areas: Instructional Programs and Services Planning, Governing and Finance, and Workforce Development. There are 10 nominees in each category and Metropolitan Community College is nominated in Work-

force Development for the Missouri Innovation Campus: An Early Approach for Future Workforce Demands.

Students from Lee’s Summit and Raytown have benefitted from the partnership.

Armaja LaRue-Hill from Raytown South High School incorporated her favorite subjects of math and science and utilized the program to chart her path to UCM. In only two years after graduating from high school, she will earn a bachelor’s degree with little or no college debt. In addition, she will have experienced first-hand experiential learning from companies such as Cerner, DST and Saint Luke’s Heath Systems.

Lee’s Summit West graduate Joey Nooner interned at Cerner while going through the MIC program. While pursuing his dual diploma and associate’s degree, Nooner said, “I love what I’m doing. It definitely beats a fast-food job.

I don’t know any of my friends working at a corporation like this so early on, going to college free.”

The Missouri Innovation Campus was designed in a collaborative effort of partners, Lee’s Summit R-7 Schools,

Metropolitan Community College and the University of Central Missouri. The Missouri Innovation Campus connects trained workforce professionals and skill-specific students and accelerates their studies. As a result, the program reduces student debt and increases retention and degree completion. The training is rigorous and delivered by instructors who use inquiry, team building, real-world problem solving and hands-on activities.

Gov. Jay Nixon said he believes such programs truly highlight how Missouri is dedicated to investing in education, calling it a “new twist on college that would actually take students still in high school and, with direct input from business, shape them specifically for cutting-edge careers.”

Students from around the Metropolitan Community College -Longview service area, including Grandview, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Harrisonville and Raymore, can take part in the MIC program and some are beginning to reap the benefits. High School students participating in the Missouri Innovating Campus program

are dually enrolled at Metropolitan Community College -Longview as well as Summit Technology Academy and the Missouri Innovation Campus in Lee’s Summit. Students who complete the program graduate with a high school diploma and an associate’s degree from Metropolitan Community College -Longview.

Then after completing two more years at UCM, students attain their bachelor’s degree.

“This program is a game changer for how young people are gaining access to higher education in our area,” said Mark James, chancellor of Metropolitan Community College. “When a high school student is not only able to work toward an associate’s degree but also gain industry experience doing an internship – all before graduating from high school – that’s an invaluable opportunity.”

All finalists will present at the Futures Assembly on Jan. 25, 2106 in Orlando, Florida, and one winner will then be selected from each category by a panel of national experts.

Metropolitan Community College will find out if it has attained the top honor on Jan. 26.

By Phil Hanson Truman Heartland Community Foundation president and CEO

ity directly from your IRA to a charity earlier this year it will qualify as a rollover gift.

You must be 70.5 or older to qualify for the IRA rollover. It is a great way for you to make a gift to support the causes you care about and this gift can be used to meet your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).

An IRA rollover gift is a taxexempt distribution made directly from your IRA to your charity of choice. Qualifying individuals can make charitable gifts using pre-tax IRA assets rather than taking a distribution, paying income taxes and using after-tax assets to make a charitable gift. The gift can be up to $100,000 and does not show up on your tax return as income, which can avoid other tax consequences for higher income donors and also benefits lower income individuals who use the stan-

dard deduction because they don’t have enough itemized deductions.

To make an IRA Rollover gift, simply advise your IRA plan administrator that you intend to make an IRA rollover gift in 2015. Ask them to send you the proper forms, preferably by email so you can receive them quickly. Your IRA plan administrator will need you to send these forms back to them quickly so that they can complete the transfer from your IRA to charity before year-end.

This provision can truly enable generous individuals to make the gift of a lifetime. It is estimated that Americans have $5.3 trillion currently invested in IRAs. Thanks to decades of deliberate saving, some of today’s retirees have more money in their IRAs than they need for daily living expenses and long-term care. And when

these assets are passed on to their children they will be taxed at ordinary income rates.

If you want to make a gift to your Community Foundation through your IRA you can make a gift to your scholarship fund, or a fund designated for your favorite charity at the Foundation. You could also direct your gift to a Field of Interest Fund and target your gift to your favorite causes for example social services, arts, or education. Unfortunately, under current law, donor-advised funds cannot be the recipient of the IRA charitable rollover.

Hopefully, this will change in the future.

Please give us a call if you have questions about this new giving opportunity for those 70.5 or older. We would be pleased to assist you. We wish you and your family a joyous holiday season.

Charitable IRA provision now permanent

On Dec. 18, Congress passed the PATH Act, an omnibus bill that kept the government from shutting down and it also contains a permanent extension of the IRA Rollover which is great news for charitably minded people in our community and the charities they support.

Last year the IRA Rollover was extended on Dec. 19, but just for the 2014 calendar tax year. If you are 70.5 years old or older and want to take advantage of this provision for 2015 you must act fast before the end of the year, but the great news is you can plan on using this charitable giving tool in 2016 and in future years. And the law is retroactive to January 1 so if you made a gift to a char-

Stormwater/parks committee hears public input

By Kris Collins Eight people offered feedback at Raytown City Hall Tuesday evening in response to a request for public comments by the Raytown stormwater/parks sales tax committee as it decides the future of the 1/8-cent sales tax revenue used for parks and stormwater projects.

The approximately $280,000 generated by the tax is available for use in parks and stormwater projects based on ballot language voters approved upon the tax’s renewal in 2010.

Since 2003, when the tax was first passed, the revenue was to be used only for parks.

During the 2010 renewal, language was added to the ballot to allow revenue to go toward stormwater projects. Parks has received 100 percent of the tax revenue since 2003. Earlier this year, Alderwoman Karen Black raised the point that the funds could be used for stormwater projects, though the ballot language didn’t quantify a split in revenue.

The committee was formed

by Mayor Mike McDonough and tasked with finding a solution that would please the parks department and the city.

Much of the public comment Tuesday rested on the history of the tax and

ultimately pointed toward what the committee has long known: that something has to be done. However, Steve Guenther, president of the Raytown Main Street Association, offered a solution that hadn’t gotten much traction in earlier discussions.

“There needs to be designated money for stormwater, but I also think that you need to designate money separately for parks,” Guenther said. … “I’d be very much supportive and be willing to spend my own money to help pass a ¼-cent sales tax for the parks department and then whatever we would do for public works. But I don’t think

what we passed in 2010 was what the voters got.”

Results from a survey recently contracted by the parks board revealed 38 percent of Raytownians would vote in favor of a ½-cent sales tax for parks (The survey did not ask about stormwater.), 23 percent of people said they might vote in favor of the tax, 25 percent said they were not sure how they would vote, and 15 percent said they would vote against such a tax.

Committee chairman Ralph Monaco thanked all participants for his or her public input. Monaco said he believes the committee will be able to recommend

a solution to the Board of Aldermen by the end of the committee’s next meeting at 6:30 p.m. Jan. 14. The meetings are at city hall and are open to the public. The seven-member committee is comprised of park board

members George Mitchell and Mike Hanna, Aldermen Eric Teeman and Karen Black, community members at-large Steve Knabe and Angel Abercrombie, and is chaired by Monaco.

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Friday, December 25, 2015

Dear young people, look up from your phones Have something to say?

We want to hear from you.

Submit letters to the editor with your name and phone number via email at editor@ raytowneagle.com or mail to 11780 E. 83rd St. Raytown, Mo. 64138

Shrink from the shrimp As we rapidly approach the holidays, I want to bring something to your attention.

On Wednesday, I sent a letter to Secretary of Labor Tom Perez and Acting Commissioner of Food and Drugs Dr. Stephen Ostroff, calling on them to investigate slavepeeled shrimp in Thailand, which is entering the United States’ food supply.

Recent reports from the UN, EU, State Department, and international labor organizations have all detailed the repugnant use of slave labor in the Thai shrimp processing industry. A detailed report released by the Associated Press this week revealed particularly illustrative and gruesome testimony of former slave workers: human trafficking, forced labor, debt bondages, filthy subhuman working conditions, child endangerment, unlivable wages, and even death.

I am deeply concerned for the welfare of adult and children shrimp peelers in Thailand, who are forced to work in one of the most abhorrent slavery schemes of the 21st

century. The list of human rights violations is both extensive and foul. While human trafficking and forced labor are not unique to Thailand, the reports concerning the shrimp peeling industry in Thailand are impossible to ignore. And what is perhaps most troubling is the alleged involvement of United States corporations in the operation.

U.S. Customs records show that Thai shrimp imported from slavery tainted supply lines has made its way into American restaurants, universities, hospitals, pet stores, and some of our largest retailers. While some American companies such as Nestle have cut ties with Thai processors associated with slavery, others have admitted to a lack of awareness.

Although international actors have begun to take steps to address the injustices, I believe that there is much more that the U.S. can do. In my letter this week I respectfully requested that the FDA and DOL launch full investigations into U.S.

Shrimp continued on page 5 Dear Editor, Amidst this busy holiday week, I wanted to pass along news of interest. At the instigation of our Mission Team, our church put “Muslim Lives Matter!” on our church street sign and gathered around it on Sunday to take a group picture. I will be hand delivering that pic

along with words of support this Wednesday to our local mosque and the attached school. I have attached that picture here along with the resolution adopted by our mission team that in summary asks Southwood members to take an active stance in defending the rights of our Muslim neighbors to live without the threat of hate,

Muslims continued on page 8 Bill continued from page 1 racist bill that silenced black college athletes and fostered institutional racism. Another legislator called the bill an attack on free speech.

The bill included language that would have revoked athletes’ scholarships for refusing to play a scheduled game.

The bill would have also fined

coaches for enabling or encouraging such behavior out of student-athletes.

The bill was filed Dec. 11 following protests against institution racism at the University of Missouri in Columbia, during which more than 30 football players refused to play a game scheduled in November in solidarity with other schoolmates participating in the protests.

Jason Offutt The essay by the 16-year-old British girl was upsetting. No, it was more than that; it was as annoying as that obnoxious guy who uses a semi-colon in the right place.

Sorry.

The essay that appeared in the London Telegraph was entitled simply, “Dear old people: why should I turn off my phone?”

Excuse me?

Well, if you weren’t too busy taking selfies in the bathroom mirror (please close the lid) I’d tell you why. While you’re at it, get off my lawn. Wait she’s British. Get out of my garden.

Geez, I sound old.

“I often hear,” the girl, Sally Parker, wrote, “that my generation is absorbed in our phones and unaware of what is going on in the world. These kinds of opinions come from, unsurprisingly, people aged 45 and above – that is, the people who were not born into the world of the Internet and are used to a life without it.”

OK, Sally, I’m with you so far. We old farts are out of touch.

I get that. But do you really need to take pictures of everything?

No one cares what you had for lunch. And really, are you going to watch that video of the rock concert you attended, or would you remember it better if you’d just watched it?

I don’t know. Let’s ask science.

Psychology professor Maryanne Garry from the Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand said in an NPR interview that seeing the world through a smartphone makes people pay less attention to what’s happening around them.

“I think that the problem is that people are giving away being in the moment,” she said.

“They’ve got a thousand photos and then they just dump the photos somewhere and don’t really look at them very much.”

Linda Henkel, a psychologist at Fairfield University in

Connecticut, agrees. She discovered what she calls the PhotoTaking Impairment Effect.

“The objects that they had taken photos of – they actually remembered fewer of them and remembered fewer details about those objects…rather than if they had just looked at them,” she told NPR. Then there’s the Internet.

“Another myth this preInternet generation has come up with,” Parker wrote, “is that we are just mindlessly scrolling on our phones. When you see a teenager with a friend, one on their phone and not talking to the other, you have no idea what they are doing. The one on their phone could be looking up an article they read on the Conservative party conference.”

Or they could just be playing Candy Crush.

Parker defends her generation’s use of the Internet on their phones because they use it for research. Problem is, they probably aren’t learning anything.

Adrian F. Ward, a researcher at the University of Colorado, and Matthew Fisher of Yale University discovered in different studies that most people using the Internet to answer questions (59 percent of those studied) were only in it for an answer, not knowledge. Fisher found that students became overly confident of their understanding of a subject just because they’d looked it up on Google.

“In that Internet mindset, you think you know things,” Fisher said. “People are more inclined to remember where the information is stored than the information itself.”

Although I am in Sally Parker’s “aged 45 and above” category, I do understand one thing: This world is one massive solar flare away from losing all our communication satellites. If that happens, I might just read a book, or take a walk. And if I take a walk, I’ll try not to step on anyone younger than me who’s curled into the fetal position because their phone doesn’t work.

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 Richard Nixon packing a gun?

I’ve met five presidents and have spoken with all of them directly but never had I met a president (for the exception of President Harry S Truman) with such ease and

and other countries and was established in 1884. I know they had over 1000 service stations just on the west coast in 1970.

Lodwrick would fly into Nashville on occasions with his entire family. He always stayed in one of The Opryland’s Presidential Suites which were 2200 square feet of sheer luxury, grand piano and all.

Cook and his family absolutely fell in love with the music of my client, famed harpist Lloyd Lindroth who was the main attraction in Nashville for eleven years along with the “Internationally Famous Dancing Waters” and a Laser Light Show integrated with Lindroth’s musical show.

Actually Lindroth and I

Richard Nixon

Lodwrick Cook

sans the fanfare as Nixon. It was so impromptu being invited to have breakfast with President Nixon and our good friend Lodwrick Cook.

Richard M. Nixon was a blast to meet and talk with.

Lodwrick Cook was President and CEO of Atlantic Richfield Corporation. ARCO employed hundreds of thousands throughout the USA

met Lodwrick Cook for the first time at the Ristorante de Terrazza in Encino, CA about a mile away from Michael Jackson’s home and Goldie Hawn, Julie London and dozens of other celebrities. Cook loved the sound of “That Golden Harp” as he would say to Lindroth so much that he would throw him two onehundred dollar bills every

By George Michaud

Producer’s continued on page 5

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weeklyBLOTTER From Raytown Police Department

Incidents from 12/16/15 to 12/22/15 12/16/2015 11:08:36 28.139.h - CITY, STEALING OF VEHICLE PARTS/ACC 5800 block RAYTOWN RD

12/16/2015 20:08:04 28.139.g - CITY, STEALING FM MOTOR VEHICLE 7900 block RAYTOWN RD

12/17/2015 10:12:56 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 8000 block ARLINGTON AVE

12/16/2015 12:16:22 569.160C - BURGLARY 1ST/ FORCIBLE ENTRY/NON-RESID. UNK TIME 9800 block E 60 TER

12/16/2015 23:42:09 Att to Locate - Attempt to locate vehicle 5400 block BLUE RIDGE CUT OFF

12/17/2015 10:52:11 28.330.b - CITY, POSSESSION OF MARIJUANA 6000 block BLUE RIDGE BLVD

12/16/2015 13:03:11 28.137 - CITY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION 9800 block E 61 ST

12/17/2015 07:33:22 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 8200 block STERLING AVE

12/16/2015 16:18:02 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 10000 block E 63 ST

12/17/2015 07:33:59 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 10000 block E 71 TER

12/16/2015 17:29:24 28.139.h - CITY, STEALING OF VEHICLE PARTS/ACC 6000 block BLUE RIDGE BLVD

12/17/2015 07:56:59 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 8200 block STERLING AVE

12/17/2015 11:04:46 28.139 - CITY, STEALING/ FRAUD BY DECEIT PROPERTY OR SERVICE 7500 block RAYTOWN RD 12/17/2015 11:22:39 28.139 - CITY, STEALING/ FRAUD BY DECEIT PROPERTY OR SERVICE 7500 block RAYTOWN RD 12/17/2015 11:23:00 28.139 - CITY, STEALING/ FRAUD BY DECEIT PROPERTY OR SERVICE

Jury convicts Kansas City man in 2012 rape case On Dec. 18, a Jackson County jury convicted a Kansas City man of rape and other felonies in connection with a June 2012 sexual assault of a woman in the area of 33rd Street and Southwest Trafficway, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

The jury convicted 31-year-old Justin Simon of

two counts of rape, three counts of sodomy and second-degree robbery. Simon will be sentenced at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 9.

Police documents state Simon and another man met the victim in the early morning hours in a restaurant next to a bar after the victim was separated from a friend. Simon and the

other man offered the victim a ride home. At Simon’s apartment complex, where his car was allegedly located, Simon began punching the victim in the face and took her to an apartment where Simon and the other man sexually assaulted the victim for approximately two hours, police documents state.

Shrimp continued from page 4

ebrated the 150th Anniversary of the passage of the 13th Amendment; an amendment formally abolishing slavery in the United States. Although the horrors of slavery in our country are generations prior, there are those in Thailand who will wake up tomorrow to experience this nightmare for themselves.

We cannot abolish slavery

from our own front yard only to see similar crimes against humanity supported in the yard of our neighbors. I urge you to “shrink from the shrimp,” and be mindful of where it is that your holiday party food is from.

companies doing business with Thai shrimp processors known to be associated with slavery, and implement the administrative actions that are available to punish companies that associate themselves with slave labor.

This year our country cel-

Warmly, Emanuel Cleaver, II Member of Congress

7500 block RAYTOWN RD 12/17/2015 13:11:02 570.030M - FRAUD/ STEALING

BY DECEIT/ OVER $500 (F) 10800 block E 350 HWY

12/18/2015 14:22:44 28.139.h - CITY, STEALING OF VEHICLE PARTS/ACC 5400 block HUNTER AVE

12/17/2015 14:28:53 28.137 - CITY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION 8600 block E UTOPIA DR

12/18/2015 16:39:31 570.030D - STEALING/OVER $500/FROM MOTOR VEHICLE (F) 10100 block E 350 HWY

12/17/2015 17:49:16 28.139.e - CITY, STEALING SHOPLIFT 10300 block E 350 Hw

12/18/2015 20:20:28 28.139.e - CITY, STEALING SHOPLIFT 10300 block 350 HW

12/18/2015 05:47:18 28.139.l - CITY, STEALING ALL OTHER RAYTOWN RD

12/18/2015 23:04:45 28.98 - CITY, ASSAULTS 9200 block E 54 ST

12/18/2015 10:07:08 570.030A - STEALING/OVER $500/ALL OTHER THEFTS (F) 5300 block ASH AVE

12/18/2015 23:36:49 28.333.a - CITY, DWI-ALCOHOL E 53 ST

12/19/2015 12:01:51 28.98 - CITY, ASSAULTS 6200 block HEDGES AVE 12/19/2015 12:31:38 Gen Info - Non-Criminal General Information Report 8100 block STERLING AVE 12/19/2015 15:16:56 28.137 - CITY, PROPERTY DAMAGE, DESTRUCTION 9600 block E 350 HWY 12/19/2015 23:43:24 28.98 - CITY, ASSAULTS 5800 block FARLEY AVE 12/20/2015 01:00:36 28.98 - CITY, ASSAULTS 10900 block E 60 TER

Complete Police Blotter At RaytownEagle.com

Charges filed in Dec. 16 homicide

A 51-year-old Kansas City man was charged Dec. 16 in the fatal shooting of a man at a residence in the 4000 block of Garfield Avenue, according to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker.

Andre K. Riley faces second-degree murder and armed criminal action for the death of William McCallop, police documents state.

According to court records, a witness at the scene of the homicide late Wednesday told police the victim answered the front door and she heard the voice of a man she recognized as Riley. She had recently been in a fight with Riley and stabbed him after he assaulted her, she told police. After she heard numerous gunshots, she hid in

the home. Numerous spent shell casings were found near the body of the victim, whose body was found near the front door. Riley denied any knowledge of the shooting, telling police officers he was angry with the witness, but went home the evening of the homicide, police document state.

Riley is being held on a $200,000 bond.

Jury finds Kansas City man guilty of murder On Dec. 18, a Jackson County jury found Garron T. Briggs, 29, guilty of firstdegree murder and other felonies in connection with the fatal shooting of Edward L. Ewing and the injuring of another victim during a home invasion in August 2011, According to Jackson County Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, the jury also found Briggs of assault and

two counts of armed criminal action.

Because he was convicted of first-degree murder, Briggs now faces life sentence in prison with no possibility of parole. Sentencing is set for 1:30 p.m. Feb. 19. A codefendant in the case faces trial in May. Briggs, 30-year-old Victor D. Vickers, and a third male suspect reportedly entered

a home in the 7000 block of E. 85th Terrace looking for drugs, police documents state. When their search of the home yielded no drugs, Ewing was shot and killed and the second victim was shot in the neck, according to court documents. Briggs and Vickers turned themselves in to police in the company of their attorneys, court documents state.

similar aquatic center with features that are more cost effective and operated and maintained more easily • 26 percent said the park should be renovated and operated with its existing features • 24 percent said the park should be close.

• 4 percent wanted the park to continue operating as it is • 27 percent were unsure of what the park’s future should be Respondents were asked to pick their top two choices

for the future of Super Splash, which is why the percentages exceed 100.

“What that tells me is there is a desire in the community to do something to keep that open whether it’s at the same level or even at a reduced level to operate and maintain,” Bransford said of the survey results. “The option to close Super Splash was only chosen by a quarter of the population.”

Jeff Bartley, an engineer with Waters Edge Aquatic Design out of Overland Park,

presented the board with seven ways the park, which first opened in 1963, could be operated in the future. Some plans included downsizing while others suggested renovations, and one plan suggested the construction of a separate and new aquatic center.

The follow are brief summaries of each plan: • Option A1: Includes a leisure pool in place of Catalina Cove, a wet deck or play area with no water basin and water slides with plunge room

Survey results show community wants Super Splash open

By Kris Collins On Dec. 14, consultants working on the Raytown parks master plan update revealed community survey findings to the Raytown Parks Board that showed the majority of the community wishes for Super Splash USA to remain open.

Of all the information presented by Jeff Bransford, of PROS Consulting, the two most notable and most discussed questions revolved around the water park. Brans-

ford said 83 percent of the 485 respondents said they had not been to Super Splash in the past two years. It should be noted that the survey is statistically valid, meaning that the numbers are an accurate representation of the feelings of the entire community despite only 485 people completing the survey.

“Because this is a statistically valid survey, we can infer this is within +/- 4.4 percent of the way the community at large would respond to this question,” Bransford

said.

As for the future of the park, which has been widely discussed in light of the recent and ongoing discussion of how some sales tax revenue designated for parks and stormwater should be used, respondents expressed the following: • 33 percent of respondents said Super Splash should be replaced with a new water park with enhanced water features • 32 percent said the park should be downsized to a

Splash continued on page 6

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Producer’s continued from page 4 night he had dinner there just to show his appreciation. One odd thing is that he never once asked Lindroth to play a special request like most folks do.

Then I booked Lindroth at the beautiful and new Opryland Hotel and Convention Center in Nashville, TN. I remember all too well that I told Lindroth that this is one city I did not think he would do well because the Grand Ole Opry and the entire city was made up of guitars and 100% country music. But, a surprise to me was that this turned out to be the most successful engagement of Lindroth’s career. As the general manager and managing director Jack Vaughan said in a letter to me “Lloyd is knocking their socks off here in Nashville”.

Lodwrick Cook made several trips to Nashville with his family and would always be with or meeting with one our presidents and

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the owner of all of Opryland, Mr. Ron Gaylord. Newspaper publishing was, at one time, his main business. The Gaylord Entertainment Company finally went public and it encompassed The General Jackson, Opryland Hotel, The Grand Ole Opry, TNN Television Network, Gaylord Music Publishing and so much more. In 1983, Gaylord purchased The Opryland Hotel and Theme Park for a mere $390 million dollars. Less than ten years later sold only the television portion of the complex for well over $1 billion dollars.

On one such visit, Mr. Cook called and I met him for dinner. He explained to me that he was just promoted by the board to be President of ARCO and that he would be pleased if Lindroth could be there just to play two thirtyminute sets. I let him know that I had to only get permission from Jack Vaughan to get away for one or two nights.

When Vaughan learned who it was for, he immediately

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said “absolutely yes, anything for Lodwrick.” Mr. Cook offered to pay Lindroth $10,000.00 just for that one night. He also agreed to reimburse for all travel expenses and salary for two others to help Lindroth tear down, set up and cartage his harp. His party was to be at the famed Bistro restaurant in Beverly Hill, CA, a ritzy, high class location well known to all.

Eight months later he flew in, had another dinner with me and we did the very same thing again when Lodwrick told me he was just promoted to CEO of ARCO. A few months later another call came in from Lodwrick’s secretary asking I could call Mr. Cook back around 5 p.m. that day. It was clear that he wanted to speak to Lindroth so I had Lindroth make the call.

Lodwrick said, “I’m bringing in President Nixon and if you would like to meet him then you and George, Nixon and I could have breakfast Friday morning down in the cascades”.

Sure enough that next Friday word had spread throughout the hotel (2800 rooms and suites) that President Nixon was in the house.

Lodwrick brought Nixon to the show and disappeared quite fast after telling Lloyd that we would all meet in the Cascades for breakfast at 9:30 a.m. the next morning. They walked around the hotel for about thirty minutes because there was so much to see. The hotel was huge and had more than 4500 species of plants in the hotel conservatory which had waterfalls going up 75 feet into the air.

We met at exactly 9:30 am, ordered breakfast and Nixon asked Lindroth a number of questions about the harp such as, “How many strings are on that instrument”?

Lindroth said, “There are 47 strings on a typical concert grand harp and seven pedals that enables the player to change each note to a sharp or flat and that he used only four fingers on each hand to play it. The baby finger never

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even touched the harp. Nixon was amazed and said, “You get such a full and beautiful sound out of just eight fingers and I watched you last night moving those seven pedals like crazy.”

After a lot of small talk, Lodwrick showed us his gun which he carried, surprising Lindroth and I. Turning to Nixon, I asked, “Do you carry one also”? He said, “Yes, I do.

Here it is.” And with that he pulled out his gun which he carried on his belt on his right side, the same as Lodwrick.

Nixon said, “Lodwrick has taken a lot of time showing me how to handle it safely.”

I asked them, “Why do you carry those guns when you seem to have plenty of protection following you around?” Nixon said, “It’s kind of fun and gives one the sense of having the freedom to protect not only myself but my friend and it’s an added protective measure.” They put their guns back in their holsters and that was the end of the gun episode. I was

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shocked I must say because that’s the last thing I would ever think either one of these gentlemen would have on them. Surprises never cease to amaze me. Nixon signed a photo over to Lindroth and we said our good-byes and thanked Lodwrick for bringing Nixon by.

See you all next week in “The Producer’s Corner”.

Stay happy and Merry Christmas to all. Happy New Year also to everyone.

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, December 25, 2015

Obituaries Doris Bentley Doris Bentley, 98, Raytown, died Dec 15, 2015.

Visitation was 10- 11AM, Dec 21, 2015 at Heartland Cremation & Burial Society.

Funeral at 11:00. Burial Floral Hills Cemetery.

Douglas L. Cole Douglas was born on December 13, 1959 and passed away on Sunday, December 13, 2015. Douglas was a resident of Raytown, Missouri at the time of his passing.

He is a U.S. Navy veteran.

Graveside services were 2 pm Monday Dec. 21 at Blue Springs Cemetery. Visitation was 6-8 pm Friday Dec. 18 at Carson-Speaks Chapel. 1501 W. Lexington Ave. Independence MO 64052.

Marilyn Rose Couch Marilyn Rose Couch, 82 of Raytown, passed away

Dec. 19. Memorial services were 1pm Wed, Dec. 23 at the Park Lawn Chapel. Memorial contributions to Raytown First Baptist Church.

Arr. Park Lawn FH 816-5231234.

Geneva Grace Kochenderfer Cravens Geneva Grace Kochenderfer Cravens, 78, Raytown, Mo, passed away Dec. 16, 2015. Ms. Cravens was born Feb. 21, 1937in Lewistown, PA. Geneva worked for several federal agencies including the United State Post Office and The Department of Defense. She was preceded in death by her parents Richard and Helen (Richardson) Kochenderfer. She is survived by her 4 children; Linda G. (Jerry) Gaydusek, Laura A. Lee, Andrew W. Cravens, and Lisa K. (Samuel) Hoepner. Pri-

vate services will be held at Leavenworth National Cemetery. (Arr. Heartland 816313-1677) Heartland Cremation & Burial Society. 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, Missouri 64133, (816) 3131677. 7700 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Overland Park, Kansas 66202, 913-789-8998.

Mildred Louise Pherigo nee Devers Mildred Louise Pherigo nee Devers, 93, died peacefully December 17, 2015 at her home in Smithville, MO. She was born October, 4, 1922 in Walnut, KS, the daughter of the late William O. and Margaret Cox Devers. She was preceded in death by her husband James R. Pherigo in 1991, an infant daughter in 1943, and her five siblings. She is survived by her children, Royan and David Pherigo, of the home,

and Jamie Close of Raytown, Mo. And by her granddaughter Staley Holtzclaw Wessel, her husband Rick Wessel and Louise’s greatgrandchildren Christian Jones and Reagan, Tallon and John Wessel. Visitation was Tuesday, December 22, 2015 from 11 AM until time of service at 12 PM at Terrace Park’s Lakeside Chapel, 801 NW 108th St. (169 Hwy & Shoal Creek) Kansas City, MO. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Gentiva Hospice 4911 S. Arrowhead Drive Suite 310, Independence, MO 64055. Share online condolences at www.TerraceParkFuneral.com Terrace Park Funeral Home & Cemetery. www.TerraceParkFuneral.com (816) 734-5500.

Ramell C.T. Edwards Infant Ramell C.T. Ed-

wards, Raytown, MO, died Dec 14, 2015. Visitation was 11am funeral 1pm, Sat, Dec 19, at Concord Fortress of Hope Church. Burial Forest Hill Cem. Arr Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors.

Naomi M. Hopkins Naomi M. Hopkins, 93, Lee’s Summit MO. passed away December 19, 2015.

Visitation was 12pm followed by Funeral Services at 1pm Tuesday, December 22, 2015 at Park Lawn Funeral Home 8251 Hillcrest Rd. KCMO. Interment followed in Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Ivanhoe United Church of Christ, Raytown. MO. Naomi was born December 9, 1922 in Jamestown, MO to Frank T. and Luella L. Sperber. She was an executive secretary for the G.M. Leeds

plant for over 46 years. She was a proud member of the Lake Winnebago Lions Club. Naomi was preceded in death by her parents as well as her husbands, James R. Hopkins and William L. White and her brother, Donald Sperber. Survivors include her nephews, David Sperber, Douglas Sperber, Dwayne Sperber; 8 great nieces and nephews; 1 great great- niece and her longtime companion, Kenneth Burnett. Arrangements: Park Lawn Funeral Home 816523-1234.

Donna M. Jefferson Donna M. Jefferson, 57, Raytown, MO, died Dec 15, 2015. Memorial services were Monday, December 21, at 11:00 a.m. at Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors.

Arr: Duane E. Harvey Funeral Directors.

Raytown Community Calendar EVENTS 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 provided. 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

Splash continued from page 5 only. The main pool would be demolished. The downsize was reduce the square footage surface area of water from 24,000 to 6,500 and cost approximately $1.5 million to $2 million.

• Option A2: Includes a leisure pool, a lap pool with diving depth, slides and plunge area, and includes room for expansion. The main pool would be demolished. The water square footage under this plan would be reduced to 10,000 square feet and cost approximately $3 million to $3.5 million.

• Option B: Includes a leisure pool, keep Catalina Cove, removes the slides, does away with the main pool and pebble beach. The downsize would reduce water square footage to 15,000 and cost $5.5 million to $7 million.

Board continued from page 2 and governance. Current laws give schools authority to start the year ten days prior to Labor Day as long as there’s a public vote.

“Apparently, some state senators and representatives went to the state fair and noticed

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.

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

(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 St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, 9349 E 65th St. Contact: RaytownCmmunityBand@gmail.com Raytown Chamber of Commerce http://raytownchamber.com/ 5909 Raytown Trafficway (816) 353-8500 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 Garden Club Monthly: First Tuesdays at 10:00 am (Feb.-Nov.) Raytown Christian Church, 6108 Blue Ridge Blvd.

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

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 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)

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

Raytown Amateur Radio Club http://k0gq.com Monthly: Fourth Thursday at 7:30 pm Community of Christ, 6231 Manning Avenue

• Option C: Includes a wet deck, keeping Catalina cove and adding lap swimming, a new lazy river, and a deep water activity pool. Water square footage would be reduced to 12,000 square feet under this plan and cost approximately $5 million to $7 million.

• Option D: Includes a wet deck, Catalina Cove, a separate lap pool and water slides.

The square footage would be reduced to 13,000 square feet and cost approximately $5.5 million to $7 million.

• Option E – Renovation: Includes a wet deck, renovations to Catalina Cove and the main pool, and temporary operation of the avalanche slide and drop slides. The square footage would be slightly reduced to 19,000 square feet and cost approximately $2 million to $5 million.

• All New Aquatic Center: Includes a zero-depth entry spool, a small lap area, diving,

and water slides, with 4,500 square feet of water surface at a cost of approximately $2.5 million to $3 million.

Bartley didn’t recommend the renovation of existing park feature without the addition of any new ones.

“You’re going to spend a lot more money and it’s not going to get anybody any more interested or excited about it as they are today,” he said.

The board didn’t hold a lengthy discussion on feasibility of any of the options, as the board was hearing the presentation for the first time.

Parks Board President George Mitchell said the board would later examine cost-analysis benefits of the options presented.

For the full presentation given by the consulting team, find this story at www.RaytownEagle.com.

there weren’t any kids and they were wondering why,” Markley said. “They’re all in school and so they filed two bills. One bill says you cannot start school until after Labor Day and the other bill withholds funding from schools in session during the state fair. As if all the kids will be going to the state fair if they aren’t in school. This is get-

ting out of control.”

Raytown Artists Association Monthly: Third Thursday at 6:00 pm St. Paul’s Church of the Nazarene Gymnasium, 8500 E 80th Terr. All artists

MAP test samples promise improved assessment scores Guidance and Counseling coordinator, Michele Eagle, made a presentation to the board to illustrate the importance of preparing students for the Missouri Assessment

Board continued on page 7

CLUES ACROSS 1. Teletype (Computers) 4. Loose-fitting sleeveless garment 7. They __ 8. Extinct Turkish caucasian language 10. Tall N Zealand timber tree 12. Piedmont city on the River Gesso 13. Burl __, storyteller 14. Made up of 50 states 16. Not or 17. Given a monetary penalty 19. Unnilpentium 20. ISU town 21. Equality for everyone 25. A lyric poem with complex stanza forms 26. Actress Farrow 27. Scottish caps 29. Gobblers 30. __ Lilly, drug company 31. Process an animal hide

32. Describe in perfect detail 39. 1000 calories 41. American National Bank (abbr.)

42. MN 55121 43. Everyone 44. Substitute 45. Rubber, marching or head 46. Dance Latin rhythm 48. Inside of 49. A way to let know 50. Morning moisture 51. Point midway between S and SE 52. Sales messages CLUES DOWN 1. Duty 2. Whatchamacallit 3. A citizen of Yemen 4. __ Dhabi, Arabian capital 5. Nickname 6. One seeded fruit (alt. sp.)

8. Fiddler crabs 9. Troughs of bricks 11. Exploiter 14. Atomic #104 15. Italian ice-cream

18. Algerian dinar 19. Consume 20. Macaws 22. Insignificantly small 23. Tooth caregiver 24. Direct toward 27. Bluish green 28. Caliph 29. Faucet 31. The bill in a restaurant 32. Capital of Tocantins, Brazil 33. Explosive 34. The most abundant of the rare-earth group 35. Japanese sock 36. Kampala is the capital 37. Raged 38. Provides with property 39. Miniature racing vehicle 40. Signs 44. Express pleasure 47. Bridge-building degree

Solution on page 8

Friday, December 25, 2015

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Entertainment Guide

The Night Bear-Fore Christmas Dec. 26, 11 am and 2 pm shows Puppetry Arts Institute, 11025 E. Winner Rd., Independence Story about a little bear’s adventures. Performed by puppeteer Kraig Kensinger

Bingham-Waggoner Christmas Tours Ends Dec. 31 (closed December 23rd, 24th & 25th) Mon – Sat: 10 am – 4 pm, Sun: 1 pm – 4 pm Bingham-Waggoner Estate, 313 W Pacific Ave., Independence The Bingham-Waggon-

Victorian Winter Wedding Ends Dec. 30 (closed December 23-25)

Mon-Fri: 10 am - 4 pm, Sun: 1 pm - 4 pm The Vaile Mansion, 1500 N Liberty St., Independence With a profusion of ribbons, lace, cherubs, angels, and garland – each room is ready for Victorian Christmas Wedding with collection of wedding dresses

displayed. Call (816) 3257430 to purchase tickets.

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.

‘The Force Awakens’ sets box office records, thrills audiences

By Livingston Brees It has been a few days since “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” was released, and I’m still just as high as I was after seeing it opening night (and again the following day). In addition to it actually being an entertaining movie, it truly “feels” like it is supposed to, and for the first time since the 1983 release of “Return of the Jedi,” we have an honest to goodness “Star Wars” movie playing in our local theaters.

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” picks up 30 years after the events of “Return of the Jedi,” where the tyrannical First Order and their evil young enforcer Kylo Ren, pitch perfectly portrayed by Adam Driver, are searching for Luke Skywalker, played

by Mark Hamill, who vanished years earlier.

When John Boyega’s Finn, a former First Order trooper,

er Estate near the historic downtown of Independence provides insights into the lifestyles of the 19th century wealthy residents. Call 816461-3491 for ticket information.

crash-lands on a desert planet during a daring escape, he meets a young woman named Rey (Daisy Ridley), a scavenger who happens upon some information precious to both the Resistance and the First Order: a map to find Luke Skywalker.

The youngsters eventually join forces with the coolest man in the galaxy, Han Solo, once again played to perfec-

tion by my childhood mancrush Harrison Ford, to get said information to the former Princess, now General, Leia.

For the sake of spoilers, that’s all the plot I’m willing to reveal at this time. If you’re lucky enough to not have this film spoiled for you, I highly advise you stop playing the odds and go see it now.

This is the “Star Wars” movie we’ve been waiting for more than 30 years to see. The overly-produced, glossy newness of the prequels (Episodes I-III) has been all but washed away; in its place is the dirty, beat-up, lived-in universe we all fell in love with in the original trilogy. Director J.J. Abrams and producer Kathleen Kennedy made a concerted effort to make an “old school” “Star Wars” flick with more practical effects, and they succeeded with flying colors.

I’ve heard some people

complain about the film being “poetry,” and hitting many of the same beats of the original trilogy, but that’s what made it “Star Wars.” The story was solid and left me anxiously awaiting “Episode VIII” in 2017.

In addition to a solid story and great acting by not only Ford and Peter Mayhew as Chewbacca (his best performance in any of the previous movies) but newcomers Ridley and Boyega, I was blown away by Adam Driver’s Kylo Ren. He really nailed the tortured youth struggling between the light and dark sides of the Force. The story also has lots of heart, and plenty of comedy.

And the comedy is vintage “Star Wars,” and not “Jar Jar Binks” stupid, physical and toilet humor. It is almost always character-driven and always hits the mark.

The bottom line is this,

“The Force Awakens” isn’t the greatest movie ever made.

Heck, it isn’t the greatest “Star Wars” movie ever made (That honor goes to “The Empire Strikes Back”), but it is a worthy and, most of all, welcome addition to the “Star Wars” saga.

I’d rank it third overall behind “Empire” and the original 1977 “Star Wars” (Episode IV for you youngsters).

Judging by last weekend’s box office, I wasn’t the only one who felt the Force awaken. The list of records the latest chapter of the “Star Wars” saga shattered is long, and includes records for biggest Thursday night “preview” with $57 million, the biggest Friday at $120 million, which is also the single biggest single day ever. The film was also the quickest to reach $100 million.

The film grossed $247 million in North America last

weekend, smashing the previous mark of $208 million by “Jurassic World.” “The Force Awakens” also tallied $528 million globally, besting the $525 million global opening of “Jurassic World.”

That global number is made more impressive by the fact “The Force Awakens” won’t open in China, the second-largest movie fanbase in the world, until next month.

China, by the way, was responsible for $90 million of the opening for “Jurassic World.”

If you haven’t seen this movie, I highly advise you do so with the quickness. How crazy is it we live in a world where Harrison Ford and Sylvester Stallone are both back on top for portraying characters they made iconic 40 years ago?

“Star Wars: The Force Awakens” is rated PG-13 for sci-fi action violence.

Save time to savor the holidays

The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends, yet it’s easy to find yourself in the kitchen for hours prepping for a festive holiday meal instead of enjoying the occasion.

The secret to spending less time in the kitchen? Make a few smart shortcuts for a memorable meal and dessert that will still look, taste and smell just like homemade so you can slow down and savor the holidays together.

Savory sides Side dishes are the perfect opportunity for saving time in the kitchen. Start with a family-size portion of wholesome family meal, such as Marie Callender’s Scalloped Potatoes in a Creamy Cheese Sauce with Ham or the Vermont White Cheddar Mac &

Cheese. Prepare as directed, then transfer to a pretty serving dish and add your own personal touches, such as bacon bits or scallions.

Scalloped potatoes also make a great foundation for a fun and festive self-serve food bar. Let guests serve up a scoop of cheesy potatoes in a fancy glass (stemless, goblet wine glasses work perfectly) and then add the toppings of their choice.

For a time-saving veggie dish, saute frozen broccoli florets in olive oil along with minced garlic, parsley, salt and pepper. Or put a fast and festive twist on sweet frozen peas by adding some crisp bacon crumbles, frozen pearl onions and a dash of sea salt and fresh ground pepper; simply heat in a skillet and

Pumpkin Pie

Burr Oak Woods to hold holiday nature film festival

Missouri Department of Conservation’s Burr Oak Woods Nature Center is offering a free film festival from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Dec. 26. Films about conservation and nature will be shown throughout the day.

The films are indoors, while the nature center has six hiking trails outdoors where visitors can connect with nature.

Film titles to be shown include:” Spirit of Conservation,” “Back to the Wild,” “Fishing Missouri,” “Key to Duck Identification,” “Birding for Beginners,” and “Exploring Outdoor Missouri” The film fest provides a colorful overview of nature close to home. The Missouri Department of Conservation

over the years has produced award-winning nature films and this festival showcases some of the best.

The department of conservation also has a YouTube channel with many enjoyable videos, including videos made in earlier decades that show Missourians’ deep rooted interest in conservation and how far our state has progressed in managing natural resources. The channel is available at www.YouTube.com/user/moconservation.

Visitors to the nature center will also find a large indoor aquarium with native fish, wildlife exhibits and a nature-themed children’s play area.

Board continued from page 6

multiple selection requires all possible answers to be selected in order to get full credit.

For example, the test may ask for what equals ½ and choices might be .005, .50, .05, 2/4. The student would have to select all possible answers to get full credit which would be: .50 and 2/4.

The evidence-based selected response questions have a part A and B to each question. The student gets full credit only if both parts are answered correctly.

Michele and Janie Pyle fielded questions from the board and ended the presentation expressing confidence that teachers will plenty of time to get students ready for the MAP test next year.

Program test next spring. The Department of Secondary and Elementary education (DESE) supplied the district sample questions and an explanation of how answers will be credited.

Markley pointed out that last spring DESE did not provide the sample questions to the district until just a few weeks before the assessment tests were taken. Lack of student test preparation had a negative impact on the testing results.

MAP tests will have multiple choice, multiple selection and evidence based selected response questions. Multiple choice requires one answer but

serve.

Dazzle with desserts When it comes to the holidays, desserts are key – especially pie. But making a pie from scratch can be very time-consuming.

Instead, look to the frozen aisle for a delicious, just-like-homemade pie from Marie Callender’s, which are made with special touches like madefrom-scratch lattice crust and hand-placed chocolate curls.

Then add your own signature, special touches. Drizzle warm caramel on top of an apple pie or cut seasonal shapes from sugar cookie dough and add them to the top of your frozen pie before baking.

Another quick tip for making your frozen dessert look as good as it tastes: place a

doily on top of a pumpkin or apple pie and sprinkle powdered sugar on top. When you remove the doily, you will be left with a beautifully decorated holiday pie.

Find more tips on the Marie Callender’s Meals Facebook page or at MarieCallendersMeals.com.

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

MCPL January Book Group The Invention of Wings

Photo courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation Nature films and documentaries will be shown indoors on Dec. 26 at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs. The exhibit area also has comfortable places to watch wildlife visiting the bird feeders outside the center’s windows. This wild turkey paid a visit during a snow a few winters ago.

MOBILE Notary Public

The Book Group will meet on Jan. 19, 6:30 pm and Jan. 21, 10 pm at Midcontinent Public Library –Raytown Branch, 6131 Raytown Rd. to discuss “The Invention of Wings” by Sue Monk Kidd.

Book synopsis: From the celebrated author of the international bestseller “The Secret Life of Bees”comes an extraordinary novel about two exceptional women.

Sarah Grimké is the middle daughter. The one her mother calls difficult and her father calls remarkable. On Sarah’s eleventh birthday, Hetty ‘Handful’ Grimké is taken from the slave quarters she shares with her mother, wrapped in lavender ribbons, and presented to Sarah as a gift. Sarah knows what she does next will unleash a world of trouble. She also knows that she cannot accept. And so, indeed, the

trouble begins ... A powerful, sweeping novel, inspired by real events, set in the American Deep South in the nineteenth century, “The Invention of Wings” evokes a world of shocking contrasts, of beauty and ugliness, of righteous people living daily with cruelty they fail to recognize; and celebrates the power of friendship and sisterhood against all the odds.

Licensed and Bonded State of Missouri

By Appointment Only Please Call:

816.456.1409 Member

National Notary Association

Taxes Business & Personal Light Bookkeeping

5200 Raytown Road 816-737-9588 / 816-810-0375 DekesBBQKC.com

20% Discount on BBQ catering December 1 - January 3

Meat Trays • Louisiana Gumbo Complete Meals • Fried or Smoked Turkeys

8

www.raytowneagle.com

Muslims continued from page 4 vandalism and violence in word or deed.

At Southwood United

Church of Christ, we are very concerned about the heightened rhetoric in our nation against Muslim families and children. This kind of rhetoric of fear and hate

has historically brought out the worst in us as Americans and Christians. Hate crimes are now at all-time highs against our Muslim brothers and sisters. Southwood in-

vites all Christians to live out Jesus’ call to truly love our neighbors and all American descendants of refugees to maintain the hospitality that is a founding principle of this

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Friday, December 25, 2015

CLUES ACROSS 32. Describe in perfect detail 1. Teletype (Computers) 39. 1000 calories 4. Loose-fitting sleeveless 41. American National Bank garment (abbr.)

7. They __ 42. MN 55121 43. Everyone 8. Extinct Turkish 44. Substitute caucasian language 10. Tall N Zealand timber 45. Rubber, marching or head nation.

Christ tree 46.Church DanceofLatin rhythm liwatu, (may you be alive, 7904 Raytown Rd, Raytown, 48. Inside of 12. Piedmont city on the awake, attuned) MO 64138 River Gesso 49.816-353-9090 A way to let know 13.

Burl __, storyteller 50.

Morning moisture Michael L. Stephens www.ThatChurch.us 14.

Made up of 50 states 51.

Point midway between S Pastor Southwood United and SE 16. Not or 17. Given a monetary 52. Sales messages penalty We will publish your Life Events for FREE CLUES DOWN 19. Unnilpentium engagements, 1. Duty 20. ISUSend town us your births, 21. Equality for everyone 2.

Whatchamacallit weddings, anniversaries and funerals 25. A lyric poem with 3. A citizen of Yemen 4. __ Dhabi, Arabian capital complex stanza forms 26. Actress Farrow 5. Nickname 27. Scottish caps 6. One seeded fruit (alt. sp.)

29. Gobblers 8. Fiddler crabs 30. __ Lilly, drug 9. Troughs of bricks companySend to Editor@RaytownEagle.com 11. Exploiter 31. Process an animal 14. Atomic #104 Or Call 816-313-0202 15. Italian ice-cream hide

Solution continued from page 8

Sydney Jackson, of Raytown High School, placed first in a meet at St. Joseph Central, took home first place in the Winnetonka Holiday Invitational Dive meet and placed second in the Independence Invitational Dive meet. In each contest, Jackson qualified for state and broke the girls’ record for diving at Raytown High School.

tary students during the holiday season. The gift cards allowed students to purchase a gift for themselves or someone they care about, a giving lesson for children to learn early in life.

27. Scottish caps 29. Gobblers 30. __ Lilly, drug company 31. Process an animal hide 32. Describe in perfect detail 39. 1000 calories 41. American National Bank (abbr.)

42. MN 55121 43. Everyone 44. Substitute 45. Rubber, marching or head 46. Dance Latin rhythm 48. Inside of 49. A way to let know 50. Morning moisture 51. Point midway between S and SE 52. Sales messages

enue Baptist Church. Coats donated by Brighter Day Ministry will be distributed as needed. United Services Community Action agency provided 50 gift cards to Caring for Kids to assist elemen-

1. Teletype (Computers) 4. Loose-fitting sleeveless garment 7. They __ 8. Extinct Turkish caucasian language 10. Tall N Zealand timber tree 12. Piedmont city on the River Gesso 13. Burl __, storyteller 14. Made up of 50 states 16. Not or 17. Given a monetary penalty 19. Unnilpentium 20. ISU town 21. Equality for everyone 25. A lyric poem with complex stanza forms 26. Actress Farrow

Spring Valley Elementary students left school on Dec. 21 with extra warmth after receiving a hat or a pair of gloves collected by the Caring for Kids KC partnership.

The majority of hats were handmade by Lyn Graham through Doughboys, members of the knitting/crochet group at Peace Lutheran Church and at Seed of Faith International. Gloves and other hats were donated by First Federal Bank of Raytown, United Consumer Credit Union and members of Seed of Faith and Lane Av-

27. Bluish green 28. Caliph 29. Faucet 31. The bill in a restaurant 32. Capital of Tocantins, Brazil 33. Explosive 34. The most abundant of the rare-earth group 35. Japanese sock 36. Kampala is the capital 37. Raged 38. Provides with property 39. Miniature racing vehicle 40. Signs 44. Express pleasure 47. Bridge-building degree

Community cares for Spring Valley Elementary students at Christmas

1. Duty 2. Whatchamacallit 3. A citizen of Yemen 4. __ Dhabi, Arabian capital 5. Nickname 6. One seeded fruit (alt. sp.)

8. Fiddler crabs 9. Troughs of bricks 11. Exploiter 14. Atomic #104 15. Italian ice-cream 18. Algerian dinar 19. Consume 20. Macaws 22. Insignificantly small 23. Tooth caregiver 24. Direct toward

Sophomore Mason Fair scores two points in the Raytown High School Blue Jays’ victory over Center High School in the Hy-Vee Shootout. Raytown won 70-62.

18 19 20 22 23 24 27 28 29 31 32 B 33 34 th 35 36 37 38 p 39 v 40 44 47 d