The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the launch of the 2025 National Civics Bee®, an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Hosted in partnership with The Civic Trust® of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition in Grain Valley will inspire middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. 

Middle school students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade from public, private, charter, and home schools are invited to take part in the first-round civics essay competition. After a distinguished panel of judges review the essays, the top 20 students will be selected to advance to their local competition: an in-person live event featuring two rounds of civics questions followed by a Q&A round to test their civics knowledge. The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce will host its local competition in the spring of 2025. The local finalists and top winners will receive various prizes, including prizes worth at least $500 for the first-place student.

Participants in the National Civics Bee® will have the chance to gain recognition for their civics knowledge and skills and compete for prestigious prizes throughout the competition. The competition enables students to explore issues that matter to their communities, furthering their understanding of civic engagement and fostering responsible citizenship. Winners from each of the local competitions across Missouri will be invited to take part in the state finals. The first-place winner of the state finals will receive a trip to Washington, D.C. to compete for prizes worth at least $50,000 during the national championship in the Fall of 2025.

 “Informed and active citizens are the cornerstone of a strong community, economy, and workforce. The Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to host the National Civics Bee® to promote greater civic knowledge in Missouri,” Cory Unrein, Director of Business Development for the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce said.
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“Fostering a deep understanding of civics and government among our young students is critical to the vibrancy of democracy and civic life in America. The National Civics Bee® provides a unique platform for them to not only showcase their knowledge but also become active and engaged citizens of the future,” Hilary Crow, vice president of civics at the U.S. Chamber Foundation said.

For more information, visit Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce - National Civics Bee (growgrainvalley.org). 

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 resulted in significant changes to the U.S. tax code. Many of these changes will expire after 2025 unless renewed by Congress. I find it interesting that one provision that will not expire is the lowering of the Corporate Tax Rate from 35% to 21%. It was made a permanent change, at least until Congress votes to change it again.
 
A major change that impacted charitable contributions was the doubling of the standard deduction and indexing of this amount for inflation. In 2024, the standard deduction for a married couple filing jointly is $29,200 and $14,600 for an individual. Before this change, 30% of households were itemizing their taxes, but only 10% after the change. A recent study by the National Bureau of Economic Research estimates a decrease of $20 billion in charitable giving in 2018. And the study estimates that $16 billion of that charitable giving loss was permanent and did not return in subsequent years, due to having fewer incentives for charitable gifts for tax purposes.  
 
Now, I don’t believe anyone makes a charitable gift solely for tax purposes, but I do believe it can impact the size of that gift. Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) can help you make an even greater impact through a strategic giving technique called “charitable bunching.” By leveraging this strategy, you can maximize your charitable giving and achieve significant tax benefits. Here’s how.
 
Charitable bunching involves consolidating several years' worth of donations into a single tax year to surpass the standard tax deduction and receive a more substantial tax benefit. While this approach requires some careful financial planning, the rewards are well worth it. For instance, if you typically donate around $5,000 annually to your favorite charities, even with other deductions, you may not meet the current standard deduction of $29,200 for married couples.  However, by bunching at three years of donations together in a donor advised fund (DAF), you can itemize your $15,000 in donations in the current tax year, leading to a larger tax benefit than if you were to make smaller annual donations. Then, you simply support your favorite charities over the next three years through grants from your DAF. When you make this gift to your DAF by utilizing appreciated securities, you avoid paying the capital gains tax and have 15-20% more to give away, depending on your tax bracket.
 
THCF has served as a central hub for philanthropy in suburban Eastern Jackson County for more than 40 years. We enable donors of all kinds to contribute to their favorite causes and organizations. Now is a good time to think about year-end tax planning, so ask your tax professional or financial advisor if charitable bunching could help you maximize your giving. Or call (816-836-8189), click (www.THCF.org), or come by our Independence office, and we’ll help you make a lasting difference in your community. 

Sponsored content. 

by Addie Rainbolt, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce Marketing Intern


Royer Funeral Home has three locations: Grain Valley, Oak Grove and Royer’s New Salem in Independence.

Ashley Fulford, Royer Funeral Home’s after care specialist, community engagement liaison and funeral director apprentice, said Royer Funeral Home has been offering a tradition of caring for 65 years.

Royer Funeral Home is family owned, Fulford said, which helps assure clients their loved ones are being cared for like family.

The funeral director staff travel between the three locations, Fulford said, depending on the family’s needs.

Royer Funeral Home also offers cremation services, Fulford said, which is “really nice because we can provide all that care in-house with our own crematory that we run and operate.”

All care Royer Funeral Home provides is done with sincerity. Fulford explains, “there’s just so much purpose around being able to care for someone’s loved ones in those last moments so they can say goodbye the way they need to.”

Although everyone is going to need funeral services at some point, Fulford said, Royer Funeral Home wants to begin and continue their relationship with the community outside of these services.

Royer Funeral Home initiates these relationships with the aftercare program and intentional community involvement.

Some of Royer's recent community outreach events include The Memorial Rock Garden Picnic, a “Don’t Dread, Plan Ahead” Q and A panel, the Remembrance Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a graveside wreath making workshop.

This year, Royer Funeral Home will host two Remembrance Tree Lighting Ceremonies, one in Grain Valley and one in Oak Grove. Royer Funeral Home will also host another “Don’t Dread, Plan Ahead” Q and A panel and Memorial Rock Garden Picnic next year.

Royer Funeral Home also wants to carry on the legacies of loved ones, Fulford said. “When someone passes away, you don’t want that to be the end. You want their legacy to continue.”

Intentionally creating and maintaining a relationship with the community helps accomplish this, too, Fulford said, because “your loved one lives on through you.” 


For more information, visit: http://royerfuneralhome.com/

by Phil Hanson, President & CEO, Truman Heartland Community Foundation
 
Philanthropy comes in many forms. Some people give back by donating their time and talents, others donate financially to causes close to their hearts, and some choose to do a little of both. Then, there are those extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond to make an even greater impact on the communities where they live, work, and serve. Among them are the Truman Heartland Community Foundation’s 2024 Citizens of the Year.

From a visionary restaurant manager to a retired professional pilot, a diligent building inspector to a passionate community activist, the 2024 Citizens of the Year embody the true spirit of local philanthropy.

Each year, local Mayors are asked to select someone from their city who exemplifies philanthropic excellence to be recognized at the foundation’s annual Toast to Our Towns Gala in September. This is the list of this year’s honorees:
 
Blue Springs – Bobby Hines
Selected by Mayor Chris Lievsay
Bobby Hines has been the General Manager of Sandy's Restaurant in Blue Springs for more than a decade, but his contributions to the community go well beyond delicious home-style meals. Although the biscuits at Sandy’s are amazing, Bobby is best known for his thoughtful philanthropy. Bobby is the Founder of the You Matter Movement, providing a wide range of resources for those struggling with mental health, addiction, and homelessness. The Movement also promotes empathy among the public, working to erase the stigma associated with these issues. Bobby is deeply involved in various community-focused activities, such as serving on the National Night Out Committee and the Blue Springs Fall Fun Fest Committee. He volunteers for Life Sports and Girls on Fire, provides thousands of summer lunches for local youth, and educates high school students on issues around mental health.
 
Grain Valley – Eddie Saffell
Selected by Mayor Mike Todd
Eddie Saffell's passion for serving his community has been unwavering for more than 40 years. His journey of service began in 1980 as a volunteer firefighter, braving the front lines to ensure the safety of his community. His commitment to public service only grew from there as he transitioned into the role of Deputy Chief at Central Jackson County Fire Protection District for more than 15 years. Eddie's impact expanded beyond his professional roles as he fervently devoted himself to improving his community. Eddie has served on the Grain Valley Board of Education for 12 years, six of which he spent as President. He’s been an active member of the Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce for six years, has served as a volunteer on the fair committee for seven years, and served as a valued member of THCF's Advisory Board for four years. Eddie’s selfless contributions have left an indelible mark, shaping the community for the better and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
 
Independence – Alversia Pettigrew
Selected by Mayor Rory Rowland
The Neck Neighborhood in Independence has a rich history. Established in 1877, the vibrant community was demolished in the 1960s as part of Urban Renewal programs. However, the memory of its residents lives on in McCoy Park, thanks to the efforts of former residents like Alversia Pettigrew. Alversia has received many awards and accolades for her civic contributions over the years, including the prestigious DeVerne Lee Calloway Woman of the Year award for her contributions to equity and social justice, presented by the Women Legislators of Missouri. She's been an active member of the city's Rehabilitation and Housing Board, a supporter of organizations like Boys and Girls Club of Independence and Truman Heritage Habitat for Humanity, and has also volunteered as a historical reenactor at the National Frontier Trails Museum, showcasing her deep commitment to preserving her community's vibrant heritage.
 
Lake Tapawingo – Robert Seago
Selected by Mayor Tom Rodenberg
Bob Seago served on active duty as a Navy Pilot and then spent 16 years in the naval reserves while also working as a pilot for Continental Airlines. In 2008, when he moved into the Lake Tapawingo community, he was promptly elected to the Board of Alderman, a position he still holds today. Regardless of the weather or time of year, including weekends and holidays, Bob is always on hand to help with any problem, working alongside employees in the field. Bob walks the talk. On a recent holiday weekend, Bob gave the water and sewer employees some much-needed time off. When an issue arose, he was the one out in the heat, working to fix it. Bob is a selfless, hardworking servant of the citizens of Lake Tapawingo, often working quietly behind the scenes to ensure Lake life is as good as it can be for everyone.
 
Lee’s Summit – Dave Eames
Selected by Mayor Bill Baird
Dave Eames has been a resident of the Lee’s Summit community for more than 30 years. He is always eager to volunteer; whether it's serving on a task force or board, he is an enthusiastic ambassador for his city. Dave, a professional artist and owner of Fossil Forge, has been an essential part of Lee’s Summit’s downtown revitalization efforts, bringing art, color, and light to the city. His passion for creating and refurbishing historical signs and sculptures has transformed the downtown district in a really meaningful way. Dan has served as a former board president of Downtown Lee's Summit Main Street, is on the board of Lee’s Summit Creates, is a member of the Civic Roundtable, and is chairperson of the City’s new Cultural Commission. Dave has also previously served as an advisory board member for Lee’s Summit Education Foundation.
 
Oak Grove – Ruth Ann Hafner
Selected by Mayor Dana Webb
Since March 2017, Ruth Ann Hafner has been an integral part of the community as a contributing writer for the city’s newspaper, Focus on Oak Grove. Her tenure began the day after the EF3 tornado wreaked havoc on the community. Ruth Ann's outstanding work on that story and many others has been recognized with numerous awards, including the prestigious General Excellence Award in 2018. Not only does she share her culinary expertise through the weekly Skillet Lickin’ Good recipe column, but Ruth Ann also crafts feature stories that shine a spotlight on community, family, civic, school, and governmental news, depicting the events and people that truly shape her community. Her dedication to our community extends beyond her role as a writer, as she has served as Secretary of the Oak Grove Chamber of Commerce Board for seven years and is a current member of the Truman Heartland Community Foundation Advisory Board. Ruth Ann Hafner's commitment, passion, and talent will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the whole community.
 
 
Raytown – Pat Ertz
Selected by Mike McDonough
Pat Ertz, a dedicated resident of Raytown since 1989, has been an influential figure in his community. Following a successful career with Hy-Vee, he transitioned to managing the Jackson County Public Water Supply District #2. Pat has selflessly contributed numerous hours to public service, serving on the Board of Aldermen for eight years and even fulfilling the role of Mayor Pro-Tem. Holding volunteer appointments on various committees, such as the Raytown Finance Committee, Recycling Committee, Legislative Committee, and Park Board Governance Committee, among several others, further demonstrates his commitment to public welfare. In addition to his public service, Pat is passionate
He is passionate about giving back as a volunteer, sharing his time and talents with the Raytown Emergency Assistance Program (REAP), Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, Raytown Rotary, and the Raytown Education Foundation.
 
Sugar Creek - John C. “Chuck” Mikulich (posthumous)
Selected by Mayor Mike Larson
Chuck Mikulich's unwavering dedication to the community of Sugar Creek is truly inspiring. From his early days as a lifeguard at the Sugar Creek Pool to his 39-year career at TWA, Chuck was always deeply committed to his community. As a long-standing Sugar Creek Alderman, he tirelessly sought feedback from residents, demonstrating his genuine desire to serve. He was actively involved in various community affairs and activities, including his role in organizing the Slavic Festival and co-founding the public service organization "Go, Sugar Creek." Chuck was also committed to uplifting the lives of others, as evidenced by his efforts in building wheelchair ramps, conducting home repairs, and assisting in property sales for low-income individuals and families. His selfless contributions extend to his involvement in various boards and committees, including service on a THCF Advisory Board, exemplifying his unwavering dedication to making his community a better place for all. Chuck's strength of character, work ethic, problem-solving skills, and tremendous sense of humor have left an indelible mark on the whole community, ensuring that he will be remembered for generations to come.
 
In a world where kindness and giving back often go unrecognized, it is heartwarming to see individuals celebrated for their philanthropic accomplishments. Truman Heartland Community Foundation's annual Toast to Our Towns Gala serves as a reminder of the impact that these extraordinary individuals have on their communities. Their dedication and generosity set an example for others to follow, inspiring hope and positive change for a brighter future. Through their selfless actions, they have shown that everyone can make a difference, no matter how big or small, and their contributions will continue to leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of those they have touched.
 
These Citizens will be honored at an exclusive reception held at the home of Dr. Nancy Newhouse and Dr. Paul McGraw, which is sponsored by University Health Lakewood Medical Center. For those wanting to join in celebrating these extraordinary individuals table sponsorships and tickets are still available at THCF.org/gala or by calling 816-836-8189.

​You can also join us to celebrate Doug and Helen Hatridge, who will be celebrated as the Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year: CommunityAmerica Credit Union, the Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year Award will be Craig Bolger, and the Heartland Service Award will go to Child Abuse Prevention Association (CAPA). The Truman Heartland Community Foundation 2024 Toast to Our Towns Gala is proudly sponsored by Blue Ridge Bank & Trust Co. 

Missouri nonfarm payroll employment increased by 14,700 jobs in June 2024, and the seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point. Private industry employment increased by 14,600 jobs and government employment increased by 100 jobs. Over the year, there was an increase of 95,700 jobs from June 2023 to June 2024, and the unemployment rate increased by seven-tenths of a percentage point, from 3 percent in June 2023 to 3.7 percent in June 2024.

EMPLOYMENT     
Missouri's nonfarm payroll employment was 3,072,300 in June 2024, up by 14,700 from the revised May 2024 figure. The May 2024 total was revised upward by 6,800 jobs from the preliminary estimate.

Goods-producing industries decreased by 1,100 jobs over the month, with manufacturing decreasing by 1,000 jobs and mining, logging, and construction decreasing by 100 jobs. Private service-providing industries increased by 15,700 jobs between May 2024 and June 2024. Employment in private service-providing industries increased in private education and health services (7,400 jobs); leisure and hospitality (4,200 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (3,200 jobs); financial activities (800 jobs); and professional and business services (400 jobs). Employment decreased in other services (-200 jobs) and information (-100 jobs). Total government employment increased by 100 jobs over the month, with an increase in state government (700 jobs) and decreases in local (-500 jobs) and federal government (-100 jobs).

Over the year, total payroll employment increased by 95,700 jobs from June 2023 to June 2024. The largest gain was in private education and health services (28,500 jobs); leisure and hospitality (21,400 jobs); trade, transportation, and utilities (11,300 jobs); mining, logging, and construction (10,300 jobs); financial activities (6,400 jobs); other services (4,200 jobs); manufacturing (2,300 jobs); and information (200 jobs). Employment decreased in professional and business services (-1,100 jobs). Government employment increased by 12,200 jobs over the year, with increases in local (5,500 jobs), state (5,400 jobs), and federal government (1,300 jobs).

UNEMPLOYMENT           
Missouri's smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point in June 2024, increasing to 3.7 percent from the revised May 2024 rate of 3.5 percent. The June 2024 rate was seven-tenths of a percentage point higher than the June 2023 rate. The estimated number of unemployed Missourians was 114,479 in June 2024, up by 5,099 from the revised May total of 109,380. The number of employed Missourians also increased in the month, growing by 4,351.

The state's not-seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate increased in June 2024 by three-tenths of a percentage point to 4.2 percent from the May 2024 not-seasonally-adjusted rate of 3.9 percent. A year ago, the not-seasonally-adjusted rate was 3.2 percent. The corresponding not-seasonally-adjusted national rate for June 2024 was 4.3 percent.

​Missouri's labor force participation rate was 63.6 percent in June 2024, one point higher than the national rate of 62.6 percent. Missouri's employment-population ratio was 61.2 percent in June 2024, 1.1 percentage points higher than the national rate of 60.1 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate was 3.7 percent in June 2024, four-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.1 percent. Missouri's unemployment rate has been at or below the national rate for more than nine years.

Sponsored content by Addie Rainbolt, Grain Valley Chamber of Commerce intern


Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is prepared to serve and become part of the local agricultural community.
Fairbank Equipment started in Wichita, Kansas, “as a supplier of propane equipment to the oilfield and agricultural industries,” according to the official Fairbank Equipment website. 
“Like a generational farmer who learns the lay of the land, [Fairbank Equipment has] grown and adapted over the years into the fertilizer application parts and equipment business we are today,” the official Fairbank Equipment website states.
Justin Moore, branch manager of Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley, said this Fairbank Equipment location has only been open for less than three months. “We’re trying to get our name out there and let people know we’re here.”
Moore said Fairbank Equipment services and sells applications and equipment for the agricultural world.
From sprayers, inductors and fertilizer spreaders to nurse trailers, hydrous gas equipment and custom-made tanks, Moore said, no matter what you are looking for, “you should be able to walk in and get an answer.”
Moore acknowledged that “the [agricultural] world is not a Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. world.” So, Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is not held to this structure either. If a customer needs assistance outside of regular business hours, Moore stated, staff members will do whatever they can to help.
Additionally, even if customers have an “off the wall” request or a service or product only they need to buy, Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley staff will still do whatever is necessary to get these customers what they need.
Moore described Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley’s dedication to its customers; staff members will “do whatever is necessary to take care of the customer” and “listen to customer needs.”
According to Moore, at least two staff members are always in the store to help find products and answer questions.
This staff is experienced and knowledgeable, Moore said. “Our average tenure in the company is 17 years, so most of the [employees] here have been doing it for a long time.”
Additionally, the official Fairbank Equipment website states the company has “over 75 years of industry expertise.”
While the Grain Valley location mainly serves local farmers, they also ship products nationwide, Moore said.
Fairbank Equipment has 14 stores in the United States, Moore said, so if customers need a product the Grain Valley location does not have, staff members can most likely order it from another location.
The official Fairbank Equipment website states, “This network allows us to serve our customers across the entire country from any of our branches.”
The Grain Valley location allows easy access for local farmers and easy access for quick shipping from the city, Moore said.
Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is set apart from competitors, Moore said, because it is “not tied up with corporate regulations and rules.”
“We have a lot more autonomy to do what we need to do in the store to take care of [customers],” Moore said.
Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley wants to be part of the community, not just a business in it, Moore said. So, they are purposefully and actively working to serve the community and become a staple in it.
“Our business is one that relies a lot on relationships,” Moore said, and Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley looks forward to forming relationships with the local community as their business grows.
Fairbank Equipment of Grain Valley is located at 615 NW Valley Ridge Ct. Its normal operating hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Website: https://www.fairbankequipment.com/our-locations/grain-valley-missouri/