Parental controls have become a handy tool for parents that are looking to balance their kids, tween, and teen screen time by blocking online sites and setting time limits.
     Whenever you limit kids' screen time with their devices, it’s going upset your younger family members. It is  important to limit the time your children spend in front of the screen. Most sites and games they play are designed to keep them engaged. Kids always think they know more than their parents and bypassing parental controls.is one of the ways they try to get the upper hand. 
     Want to make sure your kids aren't pulling the wool over your eyes? Here are some ways you can prevent your kids from getting around parental controls.
     Keep in mind there are many devices you can use for parental controls. You can configure routers to keep your kids in check and there are many apps that you can download on their devices for parental controls. In this digital age we live in, there are many methods kids can use to circumvent parental controls.
     If you use the following steps, you should be able to have a good handle of making sure you parental controls stay secure.
 
1. Your kid tries to perform factory reset to their devices.
     On many devices resetting a smartphone, tablet, computer, or, gaming system back to factory defaults will remove the parental control settings. For any device you are using for parental controls, you should always have an admin account and a user account. This way, the device your kids are using doesn't have the ability to have changes made to it.
 
2. Your kid tries to access the admin account to change or remove privileges.
     Kids are crafty and will do anything to get full access to their devices. Whatever you are using for parental controls, make sure you keep the master password safe. To make things even more secure, set up two-factor authentication on your parental control app or device so you are alerted to any unauthorized changes to parental controls.
 
3. Your kid tries to connect to another Wi-Fi network.
     If you have an in-home unit like Disney Circle (www.meetcircle.com), Gryphon (www.gryphonconnect.com), ASUS (www.asus.com), or Netgear (www.netgear.com), as long as their devices are connected to your network, you are safe.
     If you find your kid wants to take their devices over to friends’ homes, they might be using the opportunity to connect to another network to access the stuff they aren't supposed to be accessing.
 
4. Your kid tries to use a VPN.
     A VPN or virtual private network is normally used when you are trying to keep your location and places you visit on the web secret. Your kids and set up a VPN (usually on a computer) to get around your home Wi-Fi and device parental control settings.
     Using app-based parental controls work best because it protects the device regardless of what network they are connected to.
 
5. Your Kid tries to delete the parental control app.
     Most kids are smart enough to install and uninstall apps on their devices. Some parental controls software will alert you if the app is removed from a device. For total protection, set up your devices under a family account. Android, Apple, and Windows devices allow you to configure their devices so you can view the activity on all of the devices under that account. Doing so allows you to see if new apps are installed and if apps are being removed from them.
     Sometimes, no matter what you do, some kids are just extremely motivated to get around those parental control settings. For the ultimate protection, it's sometimes best to go 'old school' and take their devices away at bedtime. It always helps as a backup to parental controls that you look at their devices once a week to view the activity. 
     Unfortunately, there isn't a one solution fits all for parental controls so it's best you get a little familiar with the devices you purchase for your kids so you can keep them safe from all of the threats out on the Internet and make sure they have a good balance with their screen time.
 
     Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. If you prefer to connect with me on social media, you can find me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter and watch great tech tip videos on my YouTube channel. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I want to make technology fun and easy to use for everyone!
 
     If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral.
     My team of friendly tech experts are always standing by to answer your questions and help make your technology useful and fun. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829. 
 

     Each year, your Community Foundation has the privilege of recognizing individuals and organizations who have made a significant philanthropic impact in Eastern Jackson County at our Toast to Our Towns Gala.
     This year marks the 25th anniversary of the event and on September 26, 2020 we will host a Gala like no other in our organization’s history. Presented by CommunityAmerica Credit Union, this year’s Toast to Our Towns Gala will be delivered live through a dynamic online celebration.  
     The one-hour celebration of philanthropy will start at 7:00 p.m. and broadcast to more than 40 different watch parties throughout the region. During the event, we will recognize Brent Schondelmeyer and Lee Williams as our Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Speaks Chapels as our Heartland Corporate Citizen of the Year, Junior Service League of Independence will receive our Heartland Service Award and Adam Kliethermes will receive the Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year Award.
     Our 2020 Heartland Humanitarians of the Year, Brent Schondelmeyer and Lee Williams have worked across sectors to drive community initiatives in Independence and across the region for more than 30 years. Brent, a journalist and well-known local historian, is the Deputy Director of Local Investment Commission (LINC) and oversees programs that help strengthen older and low-income neighborhoods throughout Eastern Jackson County. Lee retired as Library Director at Graceland University and is an advocate for public health initiatives.
     Together, Brent and Lee advocate for historic preservation and civic improvements and contribute to the community by working behind the scenes with several nonprofits and on local initiatives. Lee is a past President of Health Sciences Library Network of Kansas City and led local efforts for the 2006 Clean Indoor Air Act. Brent is a leader at First Christian Church of Independence and a current trustee and past President of the Board of Mid-Continent Public Library.
     Speaks Chapels is our 2020 Heartland Corporate Citizen of the Year. A third-generation family-owned funeral provider, Speaks Chapels has been serving the Eastern Jackson County community for more than 80 years. Under the leadership of President and CEO Brad Speaks, Speaks Chapels supports the community during times of grief and through their commitment to philanthropy. Speaks Chapels’ employees are active volunteers, many serving on the Boards of area nonprofits. Additionally, the company lends financial support to nonprofits throughout the region and to community projects, like the Independence Uptown Market and Harry S. Truman Library and Museum renovations.
     Celebrating 75 years of continuous service to the community in 2020, Junior Service League of Independence is receiving our Heartland Service Award. An organization of dedicated women who have a passion for community leadership, service to others and personal growth, JSL has been connecting and empowering women to positively impact the community through service since 1945. From advocating for arts education and women’s healthcare to leading volunteer programs and historic preservation projects, the women of JSL have provided countless volunteer hours and significant financial contributions that have shaped the fabric of Independence and the greater Eastern Jackson County community.
     Adam Kliethermes is our Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year. A second-generation Investment Advisor for Edward Jones, Adam brings a unique perspective for financial planning. Adam earned a Master’s of Accountancy and JD from the University of Missouri and joined Edward Jones in 2011. Having grown up in the business and community he serves, Adam has a distinct ability to develop strategies that serve his clients and the community. The past chair of Truman Heartland’s Independence/Sugar Creek Advisory Board, Adam played an important role in expanding the Community Foundation’s Professional Advisor network.
     These four honorees embody the spirit of giving in Eastern Jackson County and are a special example of what a community can achieve when people work together for a greater cause.
     Stay tuned for our official announcement of the 2020 Citizens of the Year, chosen by our area mayors. You can find more information about this year’s honorees, plans for the online event and how you can sponsor a watch party and join in the celebration on Saturday, September 26, 2020, at www.thcf.org/Gala.
 
Phil Hanson is the President and CEO of Truman Heartland Community Foundation. Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to improving the communities in and around Eastern Jackson County through cooperation with community members and donors. THCF serves the region with assets of more than $50 million and annual grants surpassing $4.8 million. For more information on charitable giving, visit www.thcf.org or call Truman Heartland at 816.836.8189.

     The Missouri labor market’s recovery continued in June 2020, according to the Missouri Department of Economic Development’s June Jobs Report, following the major job losses earlier in the year from COVID-19 shutdowns.  
     Employment, seasonally adjusted, increased by 71,600 jobs over the month, and over-the year job losses, though still substantial, were less than in April and May. The state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate decreased more than two full percentage points from May 2020 to June 2020, while May’s rate was unchanged from preliminary estimates.
     Missouri’s smoothed seasonally adjusted unemployment rate went down by 2.2 percentage points in June 2020, decreasing to 7.9 percent from a revised May 2020 rate of 10.1 percent. The national unemployment rate was 11.1 percent in June 2020. Missouri’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has now been either below or equal to the national rate for 64 consecutive months.
 

​     The list of places to grab a bite to eat and enjoy your favorite libation is set grow in Grain Valley by the end of 2020. Captain’s Sports Bar and Lounge will be opening at 301 SW Eagles Parkway under the ownership of Jake Dickey and Josh Walruff. Both Dickey and Walruff grew up in Eastern Jackson County and are excited to expand their business past its original location in Lake Lotawana.
     “There’s a need in Grain Valley for more restaurants and we want to help fill that void. Josh and I grew up in Oak Grove and we have heard from numerous family and friends over recent years that they would like what we offer in Grain Valley,” Dickey said.
     “I have been in the restaurant business for what feels like all of my life. One of the first jobs I ever had was cooking at Stables in Grain Valley. Josh cooked there as well. I worked my way through college serving and bartending. I am 37 now and have been in restaurant ownership since I was 24 years of age.”
     Captain’s menu claims to have their competitors walking the plank. A variety of comfort foods and Americana style dishes round out the offerings. Appetizers from Bacon Torpedoes to Pretzel Sticks can be had, along with greens such as the Buffalo Salad, and burgers featuring fresh ingredients such as the Cowboy Burger.
     You also have the option at Captain’s to build your own 7 or 14 inch pizza with toppings of your choice. Pork Tenderloin is among the sandwich options as well as the Fish & Chips Entrée for those with a healthy appetite. Not to mention, Captain’s famous Chicken Wings that range from mild to hot with several dry rub and sauce options to ignite your craving. The wings come highly recommended from Dickey and Walruff as they are proclaimed to be the best in Kansas City on Captain’s menu.
     “Definitely our wings would be our signature item. We also prepare 8 ounce burgers. They are big and juicy. We were using Valley Oaks beef and plan to do that again as they prepare to open in Blue Springs. Freshness matters. We hand patty our own burger,” Walruff said.
     “Our wings are never frozen and we offer unique sauce options. A lot of places have them already cooked, drop them in a fryer, sauce them up, and that’s your wings.”
     Courtney Cline is the office manager for Captain’s Sports Lounge. Her goal is to make you feel like a local, even if you are not one when you visit the restaurant. Cline believes that promotion of a family atmosphere, a relaxed social setting, and good food help to make you feel like you are at home.
     Cline highlighted that one of Captain’s biggest gatherings are baby showers and gender reveal parties. The non-smoking environment is intended to be inviting for guests of all ages.
     Live music, dart tournaments, wine and whiskey tasting nights are also special events offered at the current Captain’s location in Lake Lotawana (27909 E Colbern Rd, Lee’s Summit, MO. 64086).
     Hospitality can be defined in many ways for those in the restaurant business. It’s also a sign of how those in the industry value their customers. Dickey and Walruff offered their thoughts on why hospitality is important.
     “To me hospitality is about showing people a good time so that they want to come back. Creating a connection with them through communication and a positive relationship,” Dickey said.
     Walruff added, “We want to offer influences that we enjoy. We don’t offer things that we don’t enjoy. It’s showing a bit of yourself. The enjoyment you have comes through in the service you provide.”
     “We encourage our staff to take the time to have conversations and get to know people when they come visit. Many of our loyal customers are on a first name basis. Captain’s Sports Lounge embraces people from all walks of life.”
     A full menu and customer reviews of Captain’s Sport Lounge may be found at www.captainssportspub.com.
 

    This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Toast to Our Towns Gala, benefiting the Truman Heartland Community Foundation. This year’s event will be delivered live through an online celebration on September 26, 2020 and recognize individuals, businesses and organizations who have made a significant philanthropic impact in Eastern Jackson County and surrounding communities.
     Presented by CommunityAmerica Credit Union, the one-hour celebration of philanthropy will start at 7:00 p.m. and broadcast to more than 40 different watch parties throughout the region. During the event, Truman Heartland will award the Humanitarians of the Year, Corporate Citizen of the Year, Heartland Service Award and Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year.
     Independence couple Brent Schondelmeyer and Lee Williams will be honored as Humanitarians of the Year. 
     The Junior Service League of Independence, celebrating its 75th year, will receive the Heartland Service Award. Speaks Chapels will be honored as Corporate Citizen of the Year. Adam Kliethermes, Investment Advisor with Edward Jones will receive the Dr. Paul M. Thomson Professional Advisor of the Year honor.
     The 2020 Citizens of the Year, chosen by area mayors, will be honored during the Toast to Our Towns Gala broadcast and during a pre-Gala event sponsored by Centerpoint Medical Center. 
     The Toast to Our Towns Gala will be held online on September 26, 2020. This one-hour celebration of philanthropy will start at 7:00 p.m. and broadcast to more than 40 different watch parties throughout Eastern Jackson County. 
 

1. Understand what backup is. 
     For those of you who don't know, backing up is the practice of making sure your files are copied to multiple places. In the event of a technology disaster, you can recover your files and continue where you left off.
     You can always buy new devices, but you can never replace photos, videos, and documents that are stored on your devices in a ransomware attack.
     The act of backing up isn't too hard of a process, but knowing the right way to backup your information can be a challenge because there are so many backup technologies out there. Here are the different forms of backup:

External hard drive.
An external hard drive is a device that usually plugs into your desktop or laptop computer. With the aid of Windows File History or Apple's Time Machine, your files are automatically copied to your external hard drive. Seagate: (www.seagate.com) and Western Digital (www.wd.com) are the top manufacturers of external hard drives.

Network Access Storage.
This device is like an external hard drive on steroids. You can use this device to store large amounts of files (provided you are backing up the Network Access Storage) or you can backup massive amounts of data directly to it, acting as a file server for your home or office network. NAS devices can also be accessed from remote destinations offering you or your business a personal cloud storage service. Western Digital (www.wd.com) QNAP (www.qnap.com) and Buffalo (www.buffalotech.com) are the top manufacturers of NAS drives.

Cloud Services.
Basically the cloud is someone else's computer. The whole purpose is for you to be able to access your files from anywhere in the world. You can choose to just store files in the cloud or you can send your backup to the cloud as well. There are two ways the cloud works. Cloud Storage: services like OneDrive (www.onedrive), DropBox (www.dropbox.com) , Box (www.box.com, and Google Drive (www.google.com) allows you to store your files in the cloud for the sole purpose of you being able to access your files anywhere in the world. Cloud Backup: Cloud Backup services like Carbonite (www.carbonite.com) or BackBlaze (www.backblaze.com) will automatically backup your files to the cloud and keep multiple copies in the case something catastrophic happens to your files.

2. Understand How Ransomeware works.
     Ransomware is probably one of the most destructive forms of viruses out there. Like other forms of cybercrime, ransomware requires user interaction which means you should always be cautious of what you click on in emails, websites, and text messages.
     What makes ransomware so deadly is it will work to spread to other computers on your personal or company network, mapped drives, and cloud storage devices and cloud backup services. This is why more companies and individuals need to have multiple forms of backup to ensure files are kept safe. 
 
3. Understand how backup software works.
     For external hard drives and NAS devices, Windows users can take advantage of File History to backup files to an external hard drive. Macintosh users can use Time Machine. Both File History and Time Machine automatically save the files on your computer and store them to your backup device. Time Machine is the superior software as it performs a backup of your entire mac and makes multiple copies. If your computer is hit with ransomware, you can restore it from a previous copy. 
     Although Windows File History works well, it is advised that you use the backup software that Western Digital and Seagate Provide with their devices because it allows you to create multiple backups. With cloud backup services, the process is simple.
     Once you install the backup software from the service, your computers are backed up as soon as you connect to the internet. Every time you save a file or files to your computer, it's sent to the cloud instantly. Keep in mind this does not happen when you use services like DropBox or Box.
 
4. What about my mobile devices such as phones and tablets.
     At the current time, ransomware is very rare for smartphones or tablets. To keep this and other threats off your devices, watch where you visit and what apps you download. Also, Apple users need to always use iCloud (www.icloud.com) to automatically backup information on iOS devices and Android users need to enable Google Drive and Google Photos to backup information.

5. How can I keep my Backups Safe From Ransomware?
     Well, the truth is with Ransomware, there is no way to keep them away from your backups once they are on your computers and network. This is why it's important to train yourself and your staff on how to keep safe from the threats out there. Remember, 99% of all cybercrime requires user interaction which means to activate ransomware, you have to click on a link in an email or web site, or download an attachment to your computer for most of these viruses to do damage.
​
     One of the best practices for keeping your files safe from ransomware attacks is to have an onsite backup using an external hard drive that is keeping at least three backup copies of your files and offsite backup with a cloud service provider that is always keeping multiple copies of your files. Onsite backups are important because if disaster strikes, you can quickly get access to your files. With a cloud backup service, it could take days to get your information back. For most of us, we can't wait days to get access to precious photos and videos or important business documents.
 
     When it comes to Ransomware or any other cyber threats to your computers or devices, prevention is the first step that you need to take. You will be better prepared if you know what you are up against. Always check your backups to make sure they are doing their job and working around the clock to keep your files safe and secure.
     Want to ask me a tech question? Send it to burton@callintegralnow.com. If you prefer to connect with me on social media, you can find me on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter and watch great tech tip videos on my YouTube channel. I love technology. I've read all of the manuals and I want to make technology fun and easy to use for everyone!
     If you need on-site or remote tech support for your Windows\Macintosh, computers, laptops, Android/Apple smartphone, tablets, printers, routers, smart home devices, and anything that connects to the Internet, please feel free to contact my team at Integral. My team of friendly tech experts are always standing by to answer your questions and help make your technology useful and fun. Reach out to us a www.callintegralnow.com or phone at 888.256.0829. 
 

     A trio of Grain Valley High School graduates have teamed up to bring their love of craft brews to downtown Grain Valley.
     Brothers Brian and Jason Fenstermaker and friend Ben Call have purchased and are rehabbing the historic building at 508 N. Main to transform into Iron Kettle Brewing.
     The group had discussed opening a brewery together for 6-7 years, getting close to taking the plunge a few years ago. Plans were derailed after Jason Fenstermaker’s home was damaged in the tornado that tore through the area in 2017.
     The Fenstermaker brothers lost their mother Jo in December, and decided to use the life insurance legacy she left them to fulfill their dream.
     “She loved anything we did together. She didn’t have much, but she left us a life insurance policy. I called my brother and asked if he had plans for his share of the money, and he said ‘No”, so we said, ‘Let’s do it. Let’s open our dream up,” Jason said.
     Jason spotted the “For Sale” sign on the building on Main, and the rest, as they say, is history.
     The love of history and the brothers’ Scottish heritage plays an important role in the planned brewery’s name and theme.
     “My grandmother was born and raised in Scotland, and came here as a war bride after World War II. We’ve always had our Scottish heritage that we’ve loved, and we’ve always been into medieval history,” Fenstermaker said.
     “Our intention is to have people feel as if they have stepped into the a old world pub, a comfortable public house where the entire family is welcome.”
     With two educators as a part of the group, elements to educate and entertain younger visitors are in the works.
     “We all have families. We want this to be a part of our family, and we want other families to come here and enjoy.”
      After weeks of tearing out plaster walls and drop ceilings, the work of transforming the space and completing permits and licensing begins.
      We’re hoping for a mid-September opening,” Fenstermaker said.
     In addition to craft brews, a full bar with an extensive whiskey selection is planned. Food offerings will focus on small-plate gourmet dishes, designed to pair well with brews. A small stage area on the main level, upstairs banquet space, and open rooftop patio space will add entertainment and event options.
     A shared alley with the Grain Valley Historical Society is set to be transformed into an outdoor patio, providing another space for guests to enjoy food and drink with friends and family.
     Iron Kettle Brewing will share updates on their opening plans on their Facebook page (@IronKettleBrewing).   
 

     Following a successful first week, the Food Truck Fridays event hosted by the Grain Valley Fair and Grain Valley Partnership at the corner of Main and Walnut looks to expand its food truck offerings in future weeks.
     Grain Valley Partnership Executive Director Tasha Lindsey said they have learned from the first week, noting that long lines at each food truck quickly illustrated the need for additional trucks to meet demand.
     During the public comment session of the June 22nd Board of Aldermen meeting, Lindsey said the purpose behind the event has proven successful. 
     “It’s bringing people into Grain Valley, it’s bringing people downtown.”
     Lindsey requested police barricades to block off Walnut from Main Street until the parking lot at the Grain Valley Post Office to accommodate additional trucks and seating for attendees.
     Food Truck Fridays continues June 26th from 4:30pm—8:00pm. Information regarding scheduled food trucks can be found on the Grain Valley Fair and Grain Valley Partnership’s Facebook pages.
 

     Like many events, the Community Foundation’s annual scholarships program was cancelled due to the coronavirus safety concerns.  While we may not be able to celebrate in person this year at our traditional ice cream social, support for our students reached an all-time high. For 2020, Truman Heartland Community Foundation is awarding $470,435 in scholarships to students in the community.
     Our scholarship program is a community undertaking. With the help of 374 dedicated scholarship reviewers, the scholarships committee reviewed 926 applications for the 124 scholarship funds held at the Foundation. We are grateful for the hours they spent reviewing applications and thrilled to award 326 scholarships this year to 235 deserving students.
     Throughout the last 38 years, Truman Heartland has partnered with many generous individuals and organization to create scholarship funds with the Community Foundation. Individuals like Mary Katherine (Bush) Axtell. Mary was the daughter of a Saline County cattleman and farmer. In 2019, Blue Ridge Bank and Trust Co., which administered Mary’s charitable will and trust, organized a scholarship fund through the Community Foundation to provide perpetual support for students of Ray and Carroll County. This year, the Mary K. Axtell Scholarship is awarding $65,000 in scholarships to 13 students.
     In addition to support this year, the Axtell Scholarship and many others at the Community Foundation are renewable. Many schools and universities offer single-year scholarships and financial aid packages that cover expenses during a student’s freshman year, but higher-education is a multi-year investment. Renewable scholarships provide the support students need to help with the financial aid gap and continue to pursue their educational dreams.
     The Community Foundation’s annual Scholarship Ice Cream Social has been one of my favorite events of the year, and we really regret that we had to cancel it this year.  It is not only an opportunity to celebrate new scholarship students, but also a chance to reconnect with students whose scholarships are being renewed. It is really inspiring to witness the gratitude from students and their families and the relationship between donors and students, some that are just starting and others that have grown stronger over the years.
     Since they won’t be meeting at the event, we adjusted our communication with scholarship recipients and donors to help make sure these connections still happen. Like the parents, teachers and coaches who have guided their high school years, these caring scholarship fundholders will be there to support and celebrate their accomplishments during college and as they make plans for the future. Thanks to program sponsor Stewardship Capital, each donor will receive a special packet with an ice cream voucher and information their scholarship recipient has provided to help them connect and possibly host their own ice cream social over Zoom.
     Scholarships are an important asset to our students and our community. If you are interested in supporting the education of students in our region, we would be pleased to work with you to create a scholarship fund that fits your values and has the potential to make an impact for generations to come.
 
 
Phil Hanson is the President and CEO of Truman Heartland Community Foundation. Truman Heartland Community Foundation (THCF) is a 501(c)(3) public charity committed to improving the communities in and around Eastern Jackson County through cooperation with community members and donors. THCF serves the region with assets of more than $50 million and annual grants surpassing $4.8 million. For more information on charitable giving, visit www.thcf.org or call Truman Heartland at 816.836.8189
 

​     Eastern Jackson County resident Sam Luttrell has been the owner of Absolute Automotive in Grain Valley since October of 2008. Luttrell’s first taste of success as a mechanic occurred at 14 years of age when he replaced his first head gasket on a motor. It was out of necessity for his father’s vehicle to assure he could still get back and forth to work. Luttrell was hooked and that has blossomed into a 30 year career.
     “My Mom would tell you that I took my Tonka truck apart and put it back together out of curiosity to find out how it works at the age of five. I’ve always had a natural mechanical aptitude,” Luttrell said.
      The decision of location on where to open Absolute Automotive was not an easy one for Luttrell.  There were already auto mechanic shops in Grain Valley with established reputations. The building at 104 East AA Highway in Grain Valley was the most economical fit.
     “Some of the buildings in the area that I was looking at to rent or buy wanted between $5,000 to $6,000 a month. I was able to secure our current location for significantly less. That was the difference, as the larger amounts would have left me wondering how we would have made the monthly payment,” Luttrell said.
     Grain Valley News recently received a nomination for Luttrell to be featured as a Community Profile. The recommendation highlighted Luttrell’s honesty and his ability to communicate well with his customers. It would go on to also mention Absolute Automotive’s up front pricing and their timeliness of service in completing auto service and repair jobs.
     A complete menu of maintenance, diagnostic, and repair service descriptions and costs are found on Absolute Automotive’s website (www.absoluteautomotive.net). Everything from used car pre-purchase inspections for $67.50 to a tire rotation for $25.00. Looking for the phone number to Luttrell’s shop (816-847-5252) via Yellow Pages online will also reveal an A+ Better Business Bureau rating.
     The coronavirus pandemic and recent flow of business has led Luttrell to put off getting a haircut. The result was being mentioned as a Jerry Garcia look alike of the Grateful Dead by a recent customer. Luttrell accepted the observation with his usual smile and deep chuckle.
     “The Saturday when they announced the shutdown was when I was supposed to have my last haircut. My wife is a fan of actor Sam Elliott and that’s the look she wanted me to go for. I said okay and I’ve let it grow. It’s pretty shaggy right now,” Luttrell said.
     Satisfaction after three decades in the industry still comes for Luttrell when he solves a problem that’s been a mystery. Especially, a complicated electronic problem. Computers have made the diagnosis of these types of issues easier. However, they still often involve the process of elimination and problem solving by a skilled human who pays attention to detail
     “Figuring out the right answer is rewarding. I’ll have something that I’ve been fighting all day long and then wake up at 3 or 4 in the morning and realize what I should check next,” Luttrell said.
     “Finding what works will lead you to what doesn’t. We get a common powertrain control module code P0171 or that the oxygen sensor is lean on bank one. That doesn’t necessarily mean the oxygen sensor is bad. It’s a possibility, but what usually causes the code is unmetered air entering the engine. All engines today measure how much air is going into them. This allows them to know how much fuel to add and how the oxygen sensor should like when it gets the correct amount.”
     Luttrell continued, “If you have a vacuum line off, a hose that deteriorates, the oxygen sensor will go lean and when it goes out of it’s operating window, the computer will send the code. It’s not an exact science. Provided diagnostic codes point you in a direction and you have to confirm the issue and cause.”
     Luttrell works by appointment at Absolute Automotive and is open from 7am to 5pm Monday through Friday.
     Have a suggestion for a community profile?  Email news@grainvalleynews.com