​     The municipal election originally scheduled for April 7th will take place Tuesday, June 2nd and Grain Valley voters will have a full slate of issues to decide on. Three candidates vie for Mayor, and aldermen seats are open in each of the City’s three districts.
     Jeff Craney, Chuck Johnston, and Michael Todd are running for Grain Valley Mayor. District 1 Alderman Jayci Stratton is running unopposed, as is District 3 Alderman Bob Headley. In District 2, Joey Burgett and Rick Knox are running for one open seat.
     Grain Valley Schools has placed a $14.5 million no tax increase bond issue on the ballot to fund the addition of instructional spaces primarily dedicated to performing arts, including the addition of a band room, percussion room, instrument storage, practice rooms, black box theater, storage and stagecraft area, and a new choir room.
     Voters will also select three school board members from a slate of five candidates. Candidates for school board include incumbents Jeff Coleman, Tisha Holmfeld, and Janis (Jan) Reding, and candidates Jeff Wolff and Justin Wulff.
     Residents will also decide on a proposed community campus project to be funded through a no tax increase general obligation bond. The last time voters were asked by the City to issue bonds was April 2011.
     Plans for the site include a new civic facility which will house the City Hall, police department, and municipal court. The facility will also include common space and community meeting spaces. The approximate square footage of the civic offices is 31,000 square feet. The size of the current City Hall, Police Department, and Municipal Court is a combined 16,000 square feet.
     Additionally, the proposed campus includes a new community center to include an indoor pool. The proposed center will be approximately 45,000 square feet.
     Plans also outline areas for a play structure, splash pad, and some degree of trail completion at the site. 
     Two separate questions on the ballot addressing the proposed campus will require  super majority approval. Question One calls for a $23.5 million bond, and Question Two calls for a bond in the amount of $15,350,000. Cities may only issue general obligation bonds after obtaining approval of four-sevenths (57.!%) of the qualified voters of the municipality voting on a  question.
     The Jackson County Election Board is asking voters to check their polling location before heading to the polls on June 2nd. Registered voters in eastern Jackson County should have received a letter from the Jackson County Election Board which replaced the traditional “poll notification card” postcard. The letter includes the voter’s polling place information, address, directions, and other information about the upcoming election. The Board sent more detailed information as many polling locations changed for this election. 
     Voters who will be unable to get to their poll on Election Day may vote absentee at the Jackson County Election Board office at 215 N. Liberty, Independence from 8:30am until 5:00pm Monday – Friday.  The office will also be open on Saturday, May 30 from 8:30am until 12:30pm for absentee voting.
      The Jackson County Election Board has taken measures to protect both the voters and poll workers on Election Day. Poll workers will wear masks and gloves. Poll workers and voters will have easy access to hand sanitizer, surfaces will be disinfected regularly, distancing will be enforced, and voters will be given a pen/stylus to use and keep instead of an “I VOTED” sticker. In addition, voters may choose to vote “curbside” instead of coming inside to vote.  Polls will be open 6:00am – 7:00pm.
 

​     During its May 27th meeting, held via video conference, the Grain Valley Board of Aldermen voted to approve a conditional use permit for Missouri Made Marijuana LLC to operate a medical marijuana cultivation facility on approximately 6 acres located at the east end of South Outer Belt Road on the south side of Interstate 70 and north of the Penny’s Concrete facility. The project’s engineer indicated construction on the facility, which will include three separate buildings, will begin immediately.
     The Board also approved a change of zoning on approximately 3.1 acres from District C-2 (General Business) to District M-1 (Light Industrial to allow for the a custom manufacturing business, AvidAir, to occupy the located north of R.D. Mize at 1206 Pavilion Drive. AvidAir, currently based in Lee’s Summit, overhauls and repairs compressor case assemblies in aircraft helicopters.
     The final development plan for the Lofts at Old Towne Market Place was unanimously approved. The development, located at Garden Street and SW Eagles Parkway, will include 154 rental units and a mixed-use indoor amenity center.     In other business, the Board approved a resolution reappointing Mike Switzer and Justin Tyson to the Industrial Development Authority Corporation of the City for six-year terms. The Board also approved the reappointment of Becky Gray, Charles Harris, and Jared English to the Grain Valley Parks and Recreation Board for three year terms.
     In staff reports, it was announced the annual Community Development event, scheduled for June 18th, has been canceled. The City’s annual clean-up event has been postponed to Saturday, September 26th, with the Senior curbside pickup scheduled for September 24th—25th.
      The next Board of Aldermen meeting will be held via video conference on June 8th at 7:00pm.
 

Jeff Craney, candidate for Mayor, did not respond to the questionnaire sent to candidates.
 

I have been married to Diana since 1981. We have two sons, 8 grandchildren, and 1 one great granddaughter. I served 4 years in the United States Marine Corps from 1967 to 1971.We built a home in Grain Valley in 2001 and have lived here ever since. I have worked at OOIDA since 1988; the first 25 years as manager of the insurance claims department. I retired in 2014, and within 7 months found out retirement wasn't something I was good at or really wanted to do. I went back to work at OOIDA in 2015 and still work there.
 
Background:
2006 Grain Valley Citizen of the Year
2008 Pillar of the Community, Grain Valley
24 Years operated the GV Santa Bus (My favorite activity)
10 years Alderman Ward II Grain Valley
1-year Mayor Pro Tem Grain Valley
6 Years Board of Directors State Bank of Missouri
15 Years Grain Valley Economic Development Council
10 years volunteered as cook for Night Out Against Crime Grain Valley
10 Years Board of Directors Grain Valley Assistance Council
7 Years Treasurer of Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce
10 Years held every officer position in the Grain Valley Lions Club
5 Years Board of Directors Grain Valley & Oak Grove Police Dept. Victims’ Rights Committee  
 
     I have taken an active role, as my history shows, in this city since I started working in Grain Valley. I care deeply about his community and want to see it prosper. I feel the city needs to take a different path on its past spending practices. We need to do more to repair streets, curbs and infrastructure that have been overlooked too long. We need to stop investing tax dollars in properties that don't directly benefit the city.
     I have a well-rounded background that I feel makes me the best candidate available to guide this city in those endeavors as your next Mayor. I'm asking for your support, the voters of Grain Valley, to help me get this city back on the right path. 
 
What do you believe is the role of Alderman/Mayor (as applicable for the position for which you are running) and why do you wish to serve your constituents in that role?
First and foremost, the Mayor and Board of Aldermen (BoA) are stewards of the City's funds. The Mayor must be willing and able to take on the responsibility of overseeing that those funds are put to the best interests of the city. This is done by reviewing all the specific needs of the city. Prioritizing those needs, with consideration of all the input one can get from the BoA, city staff, the public, outside sources retained by the city, or any other sources available to reach those decisions. The Mayor and BoA are also responsible for reviewing, revising and establishing the ordinances and resolutions that govern the city. The Mayor and Aldermen have very different roles. The Alderman set policy and directs the implementation with ordinances. The Mayor’s role is administrative. The Mayor must take the role as a leader of the BoA and City staff providing his input, when necessary, into all issues that come before the BoA and/or the City. Once decisions have been determined, the Mayor's obligation is to see they are carried out. The Mayor should develop and maintain relationships with outside sources such as the regional Mayors Conference, the Missouri Municipal League, and other organizations available designed to provide information and assistance to cities. I have always had a strong feeling that service to our community is needed, which I feel I have much to offer.
 
What is your personal vision for the community of Grain Valley in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? Where do you see Grain Valley growing in the future?
While I believe we have to plan for the future, we have to be realistic in our planning. The City of Grain Valley has been one of the fastest growing cities in the state over the last 20 to 25 years. I do think we will continue to grow and we need to guide that growth. I don't believe we will maintain the pace of growth we have seen in the past. We currently have a fantastic school system and that will always be a draw to both residential and commercial development. I would like to see more service and retail businesses brought into the city. Those would provide both more amenities to the citizens and help reduce the tax burden. We have to keep in mind businesses choose us we don't choose them. We can only make it more attractive for them to locate in Grain Valley. However, we are starting to run into boundary restrictions that either can't be changed or will require annexation.
 
What are your top 3 priorities in the next two years if you are elected/re-elected?
First, is what the residents keep stating in every survey that has been taken, which is concern about our crumbling roads. We need to put more focus on maintaining our roads and finding solutions. It is definitely our biggest problem and needs to be addressed now. Second, we need to find ways to reduce our tax levy. Our taxes are the biggest deterrent we have to keeping existing or attracting new businesses. It is just as much a deterrent to residents staying in Grain Valley. We need to allocate our current resources to where we get the most return from our investments. Third, we need to open up the lines of communication between the City and the residents. The City currently excels in getting out information on the Fair Days, Trail for Treats, and the Christmas Tree Lighting. Other areas of information sharing could be improved. While these events bring a sense of community, the cost to the City must be monitored closely. Through better communication citizens could be made aware of issues and all sides of the issues, the City is addressing that actually affects their lives. Equal efforts should be made to make it easier for citizens to see what is on the BoA Agenda/ Meetings, to inform and encourage their participation.
 
Do you support the proposed Community Campus project? If so, why? If not, why not, and what do you see as a viable alternative?
For a number of reasons, I do not support this issue! I think this entire project is overpriced, unnecessary, and beyond our current means. As promoted, this project goes without answers to questions critical to taking on the largest most expensive project in this City's history. This project has changed so much from what was originally presented to the citizens last November, it is hardly recognizable and those changes have gone with little explanation to the citizens. It was originally stated as preserving the history of the location. That has all been removed with the exception of a replica of a private water tower at the original location, The existing house will be torn down. One feature most seemed to want was a swimming pool that could be use by the high school swim team. That has been removed from the Phase I of the project. One of the problems the new recreation center was supposed to address was overcrowding at the current pool. With this project, we will be getting a similar size indoor pool and no outdoor pool. Financially, even though this $38.5M bond is promoted as a no new tax, yet it will extend our current debt load out another 20 years. This will greatly reduce our ability to lower taxes. That is just for Phase I. This Bond will max out our current debt level allowed by state statutes. Should there be a major emergency we won't have anything to fall back on, other than tax increases. It is projected to cost in excess of $20M to complete the additional phases with no idea of when or where that money will come from. Another issue, the cost the new Recreation Center is projected to be between $950,000 and $1,500,000 a year. To cover that cost it is projected the center will need 1,600 memberships ranging in price between $588 and $949 a year. There are currently 185 members paying a high of $390 a year. We would need roughly 1 out of every 3 families in Grain Valley to join at the projected fee to cover operational costs. If we don't reach that 1,600 the operating costs will have to be paid out of other City Revenue. That money comes from either reduced services or tax increases? This is already being done with the current smaller community center. Funds from the health and welfare tax and general revenue are funneled over to cover shortages in operational cost(s). With the new facility at four times the size, one would conclude considerably more would be needed to keep the doors open. There are problems with space at the current location that do need to be addressed. However, those can be resolved at the existing location at far more reasonable costs.
 
In the current social media climate, it is easy to detect the things that divide us as a community. What, in your opinion, are the things that unite the citizens and leaders of Grain Valley? Among the things that divide the community, how can you as a leader address these divisions?
I believe what brings us together as a community is everyone's willingness to help others, everyone giving to others in times of need, pride in our city, pride in our schools and school system, the dedication and devotion of our city workers and our Police Department, and everyone's overall love for the City. As far as the things that divide us, there are as many of those as there are different personalities within the city. An open, honest and complete sharing of information would go a long way. You can only look at those differences and decide which can be addressed. In a perfect world they all could be resolved. But we don't live in a perfect world. Every situation needs to be addressed on its own merit and with its own answers. I believe strongly communication is the key. Very few things resolve by themselves. Faced head-on and discussed with everyone’s opinion being heard completely before a making a decision.
 

I'm a lifelong resident of Grain Valley. I grew up here, went to school K-12 here, and now am raising my family here. My wife Tosha and I have three kids. My two step-sons Noah and Jonah graduated from Grain Valley High School. My daughter Harper just finished 4th grade at Stony Point Elementary. For the last 20 years I have been a special education teacher and am currently a teacher in Blue Springs. I have served as Mayor for the last 10 years and was an Alderman for 6 years before that for Ward 2.
 
What do you believe is the role of Alderman/Mayor (as applicable for the position for which you are running) and why do you wish to serve your constituents in that role?
The Mayor is a non voting member of the Board of Aldermen unless there is a tie, which has occurred less than a handful of times the last 10 years. I see the role of Mayor as the point person for the Board. It's my job to relay information to the Board and to the citizens. This has been extremely important during the COIVD 19 pandemic as we have been releasing weekly videos and making sure everyone is up to date on everything going on especially with the rapid changes. The Mayor works closely with City staff to make sure the wishes and direction of the Board of Aldermen are carried out. It's also important for the Mayor to be accessible to the citizens to answer questions and to help with concerns they may have from a code issue to an issue that might need Police attention.
 
What is your personal vision for the community of Grain Valley in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? Where do you see Grain Valley growing in the future?
Ultimately I see Grain Valley being a community around the size of 25,000 people. That may be 15 years from now, 20 years from now, or further out. It's hard to say. I want the residents of Grain Valley to not have to venture to other cities to get the things they need. I think we have come a long way in this area, but can go a lot further also. Along with that I want us to stay one of the Safest Cities inf Missouri by investing in our Police Department. I also know with all of the growth it is hard to keep that "Small Town Feel", but we can do that by continuing to grow and improve upon on Community Events like Trail or Treat, Holiday Festival, Night Out Against Crime, Community Development Event, and the Grain Valley Fair. Myself, elected officials, and City staff love to interact with our citizens at these events and its things like these that will continue to make Grain Valley the special and great place it is.
 
What are your top 3 priorities in the next two years if you are elected/re-elected?
1.) We need to add more police officers to the streets. Right now, for example, if there is a disturbance call, depending on the severity it could tie up most if not all of our officers. We need to make sure we have ample officers on the streets to handle the calls, plus still be able to have them on patrol. We were recently recognized as the 3rd safest city in Missouri based on FBI Crime Data and I want to make sure we stay that way. 2.) The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that everyone could be better prepared for emergencies. For that reason, I want to put together an advisory board of citizens and business owners so we can be better prepared for emergencies like this. We have a lot of knowledge in this community and we need to use it. It is important that we are able to keep everyone safe, but at the same time also make sure that we are limiting the impact on small businesses. 3.) I want to work in partnership with local businesses and citizens to turn the remainder of the Nichols Building into a Senior/Youth Center. I want to be able to offer lunches to seniors a couple days a week along with activities they can participate in. Then in the evenings after school I want to transition it to a youth center with activities for our youth. I also envision us having tutoring there for kids as well along with some mentor ships for kids we identify as possibly being At-Risk.
 
Do you support the proposed Community Campus project? If so, why? If not, why not, and what do you see as a viable alternative?
I do support the Community Campus. I realize that in today's climate of COVID-19 that it might not be for everyone and really its not a great time for it to be on the ballot. The truth is we have to do something to ease overcrowding we have at City Hall and the Police Station. We also have safety precautions we need to take to make the Police Station a better working environment for our officers. I personally don't believe the current Community Center meets the needs of most of our citizens as well. We are a growing community and with that comes the need for more recreation opportunities. I realize that not everyone would use a new Community Center and that they might not use it now, but our current facility is undersized, does not have adequate work out space, cannot offer child care during fitness classes, and has a pool that is only open fourth of the year. Ultimately it is up for the the citizens to decide and if they choose to not support this plan, that is totally fine. No matter what happens though we will have to do something in the near future.
 
In the current social media climate, it is easy to detect the things that divide us as a community. What, in your opinion, are the things that unite the citizens and leaders of Grain Valley? Among the things that divide the community, how can you as a leader address these divisions?
For me I think we have taken steps to try and lessen those things that divide us. You will notice that elected officials and City staff don't respond to things on non city social media pages. The reason for that is not to ignore citizens or to try and not be transparent. The purpose is to avoid the long back and forth conversations that divide us. I try to keep citizens up to date by posts on my page and we try to do the same on the City pages as well. We will respond to questions when asked with truthful answers. I think my record demonstrates that I do my best to avoid the conflicts and try to be as positive as I can at all times. As for the things that unite us, I think they are everywhere and just get overlooked. Our school district is great and I think 99.9% would agree. When we have a City event I see smiles everywhere and no one complaining. That is why it’s these types of things we have to make sure we continue to grow and add onto because those are what keep our "Small Town Feel" and keep us the great community we are.
 

Born in Los Angeles. Raised near Columbus, Ohio. Moved here to Missouri to 2003 for work. I finished my Master's degree in Computer Science in 2011. My job requires me to solve problems. In the programming realm, we have to approach solving those problems objectively. While I have no official education in politics, I feel my education and experience allows me to provide a unique, yet fresh, perspective in help guiding our city towards continued growth.
 
What do you believe is the role of Alderman/Mayor (as applicable for the position for which you are running) and why do you wish to serve your constituents in that role?
To represent the best interests of our city. As I type this, there's also the responsibility to try and guide the current Mayor to meet those objectives. I've owned property here for over a decade; I'm tired of being complacent in how our city is being managed.
 
What is your personal vision for the community of Grain Valley in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? Where do you see Grain Valley growing in the future?
I find this an interesting question. Asking this of any incumbent or candidate, none of us are prophets. No one can predict the future. All we can do is take current matters at hand and try some forward thinking with the future in mind.
 
What are your top 3 priorities in the next two years if you are elected/re-elected?
#1 Education #2 Commerce #3 Community
 
Do you support the proposed Community Campus project? If so, why? If not, why not, and what do you see as a viable alternative?
I don't believe we are there yet. The current population doesn't merit this large an investment. We would be using all our bonds on this one item. What happens when we have a legit issue. How would we cover this if our bonds are spent.
 
In the current social media climate, it is easy to detect the things that divide us as a community. What, in your opinion, are the things that unite the citizens and leaders of Grain Valley? Among the things that divide the community, how can you as a leader address these divisions?
Social media allows everyone an opportunity to speak their minds, anonymously. While sad that people need to hide their perceptions on how our city is run, it does provide them a medium to express themselves. I can't write them off.
 

I have lived in Grain Valley since July 1980. I retired May 1st after 49 years with Central Jackson County Fire. 35 years of my career were as an Assistant Chief. I'm widowed from my wife of 44 years and now share my life with Tank, my English Mastiff, and Pugs, my Persian cat.
 
What do you believe is the role of Alderman/Mayor (as applicable for the position for which you are running) and why do you wish to serve your constituents in that role?
I believe first and foremost, the job of any elected official is to be good stewards of the tax payers money. This is done by working with the other council members to layout a plan and give guidance to the City Manager. It is the role of the City Council to give guidance as to the path they wish it to take the City. It's then the City Managers job to take the city there, not, the other way around.
 
What is your personal vision for the community of Grain Valley in 5 years? 10 years? 20 years? Where do you see Grain Valley growing in the future?
First, I would like to see a controlled growth. One that brings in a tax base as well as housing. We as a City must grow our commercial base to survive. This is needed so as not to place the burden solely, or mainly on the property owners. But, we need the correct growth at the correct time.
 
What are your top 3 priorities in the next two years if you are elected/re-elected?
First, making sure our Police department has the staffing and proper equipment to allow our Officers to preform their jobs at the highest standards. This would include, but not be limited to a new police station, or remodeling one of the current buildings now owned by the city. Second, getting the City out of the real estate buying business. This will allow the City reserves to remain in a higher state for unexpected expenditures. It would also stop taking real estate off the tax rolls. Third, bring the City streets up to standards.
 
Do you support the proposed Community Campus project? If so, why? If not, why not, and what do you see as a viable alternative?
No, I do not. First, there is no such thing as a no tax increase bond. While you may not see your taxes rise on the yearly statement, is does in fact increase the tax one pays by lengthening out the payments. So more taxes are paid. Even before the pandemic, I stated I was against it. I do not believe that the City should max out it's bonding capacity. Now in these uncertain times, I believe it would be a big mistake. I believe the City should have a list of needed items, and a list of wanted items to spend tax monies on. There is a large difference. I also feel, if, the YMCA wishes to come to our city, that they, the YMCA buy the property, build and run the pool and leave the City and it's tax payers out of it. While I believe the city needs either a new Police station, or a City hall. I do not believe that both are needed at this time. I feel we should look at building one, and remodeling the current City Hall/Police station for use as the other. It's also my feeling we have plenty of room at the current location to build. The City also has the building on Gregg, that with little work, could be utilized for the codes department or water department, lessening the overcrowding that is currently being felt at City Hall.
 
In the current social media climate, it is easy to detect the things that divide us as a community. What, in your opinion, are the things that unite the citizens and leaders of Grain Valley? Among the things that divide the community, how can you as a leader address these divisions?
I believe that social media is a good tool to understand the climate of the City. I feel that the one major divide between the City and its taxpayers is spending. It's my belief that City officials must be upfront and open. Full transparency. I also believe that City officials need to listen to what the tax paper is saying. I would work at opening the lines of communications between City officials and the taxpayers.
 

     The familiar sounds of summer in the Valley returned last weekend as Valley Speedway hosted the annual Mid-State Open Wheel Nationals presented by POWRi. #4a Justin Grant claimed the win, with Thomas Meseraull placing a close second.
     Valley Speedway owner Dennis Shrout was thrilled to see the return of racing and pleased with the cooperation of those in attendance.
     “We cancelled our first 8 events to help with the spread of the virus. This has led to no racing income which makes it tough for any small business. Racing is a seasonal sport and we have already lost 30% of our scheduled races,” Shrout said.
     “It was nice to see the race fans and race teams be able to get out and enjoy a nice weekend outdoors. The fans and teams did a great job of respecting one another and doing a good job of keeping distant as much as possible.”
 
POWRi Lucas Oil National and West Midget League Results:
1. 4A-Justin Grant[1]; 2. 7X-Thomas Meseraull[2]; 3. 35-Tanner Carrick[3]; 4. 19AZ-Logan Seavey[7]; 5. 5-Kevin Thomas Jr[9]; 6. 08-Cannon McIntosh[12]; 7. 44S-Andrew Felker[4]; 8. 32-Trey Marcham[10]; 9. 3N-Jake Neuman[5]; 10. 15-Emerson Axsom[17]; 11. 98-Clinton Boyles[14]; 12. 28-Ace McCarthy[19]; 13. 55K-Karter Sarff[6]; 14. 4-Robert Dalby[20]; 15. 44X-Wesley Smith[16]; 16. 5D-Zach Daum[11]; 17. 42-Hank Davis[13]; 18. 00-Trey Gropp[22]; 19. 19P-Don Droud Jr[15]; 20. 91-Andy Bishop[8]; 21. 21K-Emilio Hoover[23]; 22. 7M-Chance Morton[18]; 23. 19M-Ethan Mitchell[21]
Auto Meter Heat Race 1: Thomas Meseraull #7x
KSE Racing Products Heat 2: Andrew Felker #44s
Advanced Racing Suspensions Heat 3: Jake Neuman #3n
Schoenfeld Headers Heat 4: Tanner Carrick #35
Hoosier Racing Tire B-Feature: Emerson Axsom #15
Super Clean Hard Charger: Emerson Axsom #15 (+7)
B Feature 1 (12 Laps): 1. 15-Emerson Axsom[1]; 2. 7M-Chance Morton[5]; 3. 28-Ace McCarthy[2]; 4. 4-Robert Dalby[12]; 5. 19M-Ethan Mitchell[14]; 6. 00-Trey Gropp[3]; 7. 71-Zac Taylor[4]; 8. 4F-Chad Frewaldt[7]; 9. 26-Tristin Thomas[10]; 10. 8M-Kade Morton[18]; 11. 21K-Emilio Hoover[16]; 12. 19A-Hayden Reinbold[6]; 13. 22-Tanner Allen[11]; 14. 321-Chad Winfrey[9]; 15. 2H-Luke Howard[13]; 16. 5H-Casey Hicks[8]; 17. 11-Shawn Mahaffey[15]; 18. 72-Sam Johnson[17]
Heat 1 (8 Laps): 1. 7X-Thomas Meseraull[5]; 2. 08-Cannon McIntosh[1]; 3. 19AZ-Logan Seavey[6]; 4. 15-Emerson Axsom[3]; 5. 44X-Wesley Smith[7]; 6. 4F-Chad Frewaldt[4]; 7. 19M-Ethan Mitchell[2]; 8. 4-Robert Dalby[8]; 9. 21K-Emilio Hoover[9]
Heat 2 (8 Laps): 1. 44S-Andrew Felker[3]; 2. 5D-Zach Daum[2]; 3. 5-Kevin Thomas Jr[5]; 4. 98-Clinton Boyles[6]; 5. 00-Trey Gropp[4]; 6. 71-Zac Taylor[7]; 7. 7M-Chance Morton[9]; 8. 2H-Luke Howard[8]; 9. 8M-Kade Morton[1]
Heat 3 (8 Laps): 1. 3N-Jake Neuman[3]; 2. 42-Hank Davis[1]; 3. 55K-Karter Sarff[7]; 4. 91-Andy Bishop[8]; 5. 19A-Hayden Reinbold[2]; 6. 5H-Casey Hicks[4]; 7. 26-Tristin Thomas[6]; 8. 11-Shawn Mahaffey[5]
Heat 4 (8 Laps): 1. 35-Tanner Carrick[4]; 2. 4A-Justin Grant[8]; 3. 19P-Don Droud Jr[3]; 4. 32-Trey Marcham[7]; 5. 28-Ace McCarthy[6]; 6. 321-Chad Winfrey[1]; 7. 22-Tanner Allen[5]; 8. 72-Sam Johnson[2]
For further information, visit http://www.powri.com, “Like” POWRi on Facebook, and follow @POWRi_Racing on Twitter. Catch each night’s LIVE action via pay-per-view broadcast from POWRi.TV at http://www.powri.tv.
 

​     Randi Prichard, 5th grade student at Stony Point Elementary, was recently awarded the Grain Valley Schools Safe Rider of the Year award for the 2019-20 school year. The award came with a $100 prize. The award is usually presented at a year-end school assembly, but this year Prichard’s bus driver, Connie Azcona, delivered the award to Prichard’s home by school bus.
     Shawn Brady, Director of Transportation for Grain Valley Schools, explains Prichard represents the “best of the best”.  
     “Each month during the school year, the elementary bus drivers select a student on their bus to be recognized for excellence in Safety and Citizenship on the bus. At the end of the year, each driver reviews their winners and nominate who they felt was their 'best of the best',” Brady said.
 

​     As the school year draws to a close, one cannot help but reflect on their own time in high school and realize what the Class of 2020 has missed.  Of course, prom is only one of the many events graduates have missed out on and for this, I am truly sorry.
     Back in the 1950s and 60s prom was very different than today’s extravaganza.  It was known as the Junior & Senior Prom because the juniors sponsored the event to honor the seniors.  This is how it worked.  When a class entered the 8th grade they began massive fundraising.  All of the monies raised went to 5 major events; 8th grade graduation, homecoming floats, prom, senior trip and high school graduation. While the senior trip may have been the most expensive, prom expenses exceeded the other three by far.
     For most classes planning began during the first week of junior year.  The prom committees were formed and a theme was chosen. Of course, it was the goal of every class to out do the previous year.  One of the responsibilities was planning a menu for dinner, served in school library before Grain Valley got a cafeteria in 1954.
     The meal was served by a group of sophomores and it was considered an honor to be chosen to serve. After the meal, each junior was presented with their class ring, another BIG deal.
    Decorations to carry out the theme required months of planning. I remember staying after school for days to make all of the apple blossoms required for the fake trees in the apple orchard at the entrance to the gymnasium.
     The gym was closed for classes during the week of prom so decorations could be put in place.  The doors were covered with heavy brown paper so no one could get a sneak preview! By midnight on Friday the miraculous transformation had to be completed. While there was no hiding the basketball court lines and circles on the floor or the goals at each end, the fake ceiling hid the balcony, and the walls were covered with crepe paper.
     There were no limos, no champagne glass souvenirs, no $100 dinners, and certainly no $500 outfits or $150 to $200 tuxedo rentals. There was a printed invitation that came in the mail, a dance program, favors, a live orchestra and refreshments.
     We didn’t have a project graduation but we did have some post-parties.  My class met for breakfast the next morning before leaving for our senior trip to Scott Valley Dude Ranch in Mountain Home, Arkansas.
     While I don’t know where every class went I do remember my cousins class went to Rock-a-Way Beach and my brother’s class spent a week in Branson. Oh yes, those were the “good old days.”
 
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     The COVID-19 pandemic caused a severe downturn in the nation’s labor market in April 2020. In Missouri, seasonally adjusted employment decreased by 305,100 jobs over the month, and by 327,800 jobs over the year, the largest one-month and one-year decreases since the current data series began in 1990. The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased to 9.7 percent over the month, more than doubling the previous month, and tripling over the year.
     Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate had its largest monthly and yearly increases ever in April 2020. The April 2020 rate of 9.7 percent was up by nearly six percentage points from the March 2020 rate of 3.9 percent and 6.5 percentage points from the April 2019 rate of 3.2 percent.
Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was below the national rate, which was 14.7 percent in April 2020.
     The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 292,690 in April 2020, up by 171,103 from March’s 109,616.
     Under normal circumstances, an increase in the unadjusted rate from March to April would be highly unusual, but COVID-19 resulted in unprecedented economic fluctuations. The rapidly changing economic situation will likely continue to evolve and be reflected in next month’s jobs report.
     Missouri’s seasonally adjusted nonfarm payroll employment was 2,574,000 in April 2020, down by 305,100 from the revised March figure. Federal government (+200) and mining & logging (unchanged) saw less change than most sectors. Goods-producing industries lost 46,000 jobs over the month, and service-providing industries lost 259,100 jobs. Among goods-producing industries, durable goods manufacturing was hit the hardest, losing 26,700 jobs. Employment in construction decreased by 11,000, while non-durable manufacturing had a loss of 8,300 jobs.
     Among service-providing industries, accommodation & food services had the largest decrease, losing 110,700 jobs. Trade, transportation & utilities lost 42,600 jobs over the month. Professional & business services lost 29,500 jobs, and educational & health services lost 18,400 jobs. In the public sector, local government employment was down by 11,100, and state government lost 2,600 jobs. 
     Payroll employment decreased by 327,800 jobs from April 2019 to April 2020. Only federal government (+1,100) saw an increase, helped in part by hiring for the federal census. Goods-producing industries lost 47,100 jobs over the year, and service-providing industries lost 280,700 jobs. Manufacturing employment was down by 38,000 (-13.7 percent), while construction, less severely affected because most work was outside, lost 9,000 jobs (-7.1 percent).
     Among service-providing industries, leisure & hospitality lost 152,100 jobs (-49.4 percent) over the year, shedding nearly half its employment. Trade, transportation & utilities lost 45,000 jobs (-8.3 percent), while employment in professional & business services was down by 27,800 (-7.3 percent). Educational & health services lost 21,500 jobs (-4.5 percent). Government employment decreased by 12,900 jobs, (-3.0 percent), with losses of 12,400 jobs in local government and 1,600 jobs in state government. 
 

     I have been a student for most of my life and learned many facts in some great institutions from some tremendous professors. But by far, my greatest teachable moments have been learned through life itself.
     An anonymous author said, “necessity is the mother of invention.” In other words, when life changes, we do what it takes to get the job done. Some of the best lessons are learned in times of our greatest struggles. 
     During these recent, difficult times, we’ve faced great challenges, but we’ve overcome. We readjusted and made it happen. As individuals and as a society, we are innovative and will do what it takes to make it through. During the last several months, we have all learned some important lessons. Here are a few things that I have learned.
 
Life can change in an instant
     When we first learned about the coronavirus we were intrigued. We all followed the story and found it interesting and a little unsettling. This new information was way out of our comfort zone. We didn’t know what to do with it or where to file it. We didn’t have a file marked, “pandemic.” One thing we did know is that we needed more toilet paper.
     In an instant, our lives were changed. Everything was different. We enlarged our vocabulary to include words and phrases like COVID, pandemic, social distancing, Zoom, and essential services.
     Life changed very fast and we had to adjust. People were told to stay home as much as possible.
     Because of that, many people worked from home. Schools had to teach using an online venue. Parents needed to adjust schedules. Everything changed in an instant. We are still adjusting to a “new normal” and wondering when things will get back to the “old normal.”
 
People can be kind
      Like you, I got so tired of being bombarded by all the negative and frightening news on television and social media. It was all anybody was talking about—and rightly so. It was a frightening time. I remember early on, going to the store and seeing empty shelves and wondering, “what is happening?”
     “Sir, you’re only allowed two packs per family,” the grocery worker said kindly, but firmly to the man pushing the cart by me.” His cart was full of toilet paper. “It’s not all for me,” he frowned,   “Some of it’s for my mother and she does not live with us.” “You’re allowed just two packs per family,” the worker said again. I moved on. Rationale went out the window. People were panicked and fuses were short.
     But, in the midst of all this, we saw a glimmer of hope. There was beauty from the ashes. From time to time, we got a glimpse of love and respect. We saw hope for humanity.
     I loved seeing and hearing the stories of people who helped the elderly in the grocery stores, those who donated goods or services to the less fortunate, and many other random acts of kindness.
    I loved seeing the Facebook posts pop up where someone would say, “I have a need” and others, often random strangers, would rise to the occasion. I loved seeing the parades through the neighborhood by teachers who wanted to let their students know that they cared deeply about them and that everything would be okay.
     It was moments like those that reminded me that, deep down, people do care.
 
Not all heroes wear a cape
     During the epidemic, we began using phrases like “essential” and “non-essential.” Both terms came complete with obligations and possible ramifications.
     There were many who served quietly among us. Some of these were our first responders, medical personnel, and those who worked in essential services.
     Probably like you, I can think of several people in the medical community who continued to care and to serve putting themselves and their families potentially in harms way. I’m sure, at times, they didn’t want to and second guessed their profession, but they did what needed to be done in a very difficult time. They served professionally and sacrificially. We are grateful for your service.
 
We’ve gotten used to noise
     Remember when things were “normal?” We had sports on TV, drove our kids to practices, games, and recitals, and said “see you later” several times a day? Life was busy and it was noisy.
     When the pandemic first hit, everyone was somewhat paralyzed and wondered, “what are we going to ‘do?’” People and families had to readjust. Families were forced to stay indoors and be together. With the TV off, family members were talking, playing games, and enjoying each other’s company. It reminded me that the best gifts in life are free.
     “I like to build things,” my six-year-old grandson said who was now learning online. “What would you like to build?” I asked, putting down my book. “I want to build a treehouse or a big hill,” he said.
     Trying to steer the conversation into something that was a little more cost-effective, easier, and matched my skill set, I thought about the large cardboard box papa and mama were saving for him. “How about building a robot?,” I said. Using a razor knife, some duct tape, and odds and ends, we went into creative mode and just had fun for a little while.
     Before the pandemic, our lives were very busy and very noisy. During this time, many of us have simplified our existence and even learned some new hobbies. In some odd way, I think many people would say, it’s been good to slow down a little.
 
We were built to connect
     As an introvert, by nature, I’ve often joked that I wouldn’t mind working in a room by myself and just having someone slide some coffee and pizza in every once in a while. But, during this time of social distancing, there have been some grey days. I’ve found that I need people.
     As a pastor, I’ve missed the opportunity to see many in our congregation face-to-face. I’ve missed seeing them and hearing their stories. I’ve missed the handshakes and hugs and I’m looking forward to seeing one another again.
 
The future is uncertain
     As I write this, meat prices have risen and experts say, we could see higher prices for some time. We all ask questions like, “why is this so?” and “what does this mean?” For me, it’s another reminder that the future, in general, is uncertain. But then again, it has always been this way.
     Jesus said, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? (Matt 6:25-26).
     Jesus’s point is simple. We have no control over our lives. We can try to manipulate our environment, but in the end, the future is uncertain, and God is ultimately in control. That’s really good news.
     One of the things that I had to learn years ago was to hold on to life loosely and trust God in the process. I don’t know what tomorrow holds, but I do know who holds tomorrow.
 
Dr. Wayne Geiger is the Pastor of First Baptist Grain Valley, an Adjunct Associate Professor of Speech, and freelance writer.