by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
 
​
Even before the original town was established, residents of the area had begun to emerge as leaders. Their voices were heard as they voted to annex the Graves and Ashcroft Addition into the town in 1887. The earliest date found at the Recorder of Deeds office was when lot 4 was sold to James T. Weatherford on December 10, 1887. The lots in this addition had previous owners, however, the lots were not an “official” part of the town.

​GRAVES & ASHCRAFT’S ADDITION 1 & 2
 
Because I have previously written about these additions, I will share with you a portion of the manuscript of Patricia Davis Parr from a presentation she made to the Historical Society 25 years ago. The portion in italics are my words, usually correcting a name or date.
 
“Grain Valley as I remember in the 1930s and 40s …starting at Walnut Street
 
Grain Valley Christian Church was a beautiful brick building with leaded stained-glass windows. Built in 1910, it burned in the early 1970s. Next was the house lived in by the Savage Family. Another small house…I really do not remember it but my collaborator does. (I wish I knew who her collaborator was.)

Lot 5 The Sni-A-Bar Bank building was operated by J. M. Hall. It was a concrete building with two floors and giant pillars in front This bank closed in the early 30s due to the depression. (It actually closed in 1926 due to very poor management and unsecured loans.) In the thirties it was used as a feed store and a pool hall. (In the 1950s and early 60s it housed a barber shop, sometimes a beauty shop and an apartment on the upper level.) Lot 6 was a café with many renters, one was Ollie Elliott, then a millinery shop run by Mrs. Owsley. 

RYAN’S LOCKER PLANT, LOT 7
 
Charles and Ida Ryan ran the locker plant and also a grocery store on Lot 8. Inside on the north side was dry goods and on the south side was groceries and a large display case with penny candy and a rolling ladder to get to high shelves. This building was two stories, and housed upstairs was a theater.

The Royal Neighbors held meeting upstairs, as did the Modern Woodman of the World. The W.P.A. sewing room was at this location for a time. John P. O’Connell was the town barber when the first building at this location burned in 1920. He rebuilt the two-story and rented it to Charles Ryan who soon purchased the building. The alley was located on the south side of the building.

Lot 9 housed a grocery operated by W. M. Frost and his wife Sophia. (Interesting; two grocery stores across the alley from one another!) Later it was operated by J. W. Minter. The next building was used for many purposes. It housed the W. P. A. sewing room in the late 1930s and after that the Grain Valley Post Office was located along with C. E. Kirby’s repair shop for his gasoline trucks.  Before this was his location Joseph Bartlett had his first café there. Lot 11 was the Drug Store operated by Ed Storms and later by his son Ellis Storms.

The building next to Storm’s Drug Store was the two-story Bank of Grain Valley. It was the only bank in eastern Jackson County not forced to close during the depression. It was operated by W. D. Warren until 1960. The upstairs was rented to The Masons and The Eastern Star. Also, the first floor rear had an office for Dr. Johnson and Dr. Dwyer. There was also a grocery store operated first (1934) by Clyde Fristoe and later by William (Bill) Tucker.
 
And that, my friends, is the west Side of Main Street. The remaining lots in the Graves and Ashcraft Addition were the homes along the north side of front street to Capelle, the east side of Capelle, and the south side of Walnut going east back to Main; or two square blocks -- homes, businesses and two churches, the Christian and First Baptist. Of the two, only First Baptist of Grain Valley remains. In recent years, Valley Community Church has moved into the old Mid-Continent Public Library building and parking lot. (Lots 13-17).
 
If Ryan’s Locker Plant looks familiar, it should.  That is now Crosetti’s Pharmacy.

by Phil Hanson, Truman Heartland Community Foundation 

 
It may feel like winter, but at Truman Heartland Community Foundation, we are in the peak scholarship season. Applications are open until February 14, 2025 for the scholarships managed by the foundation. In 2024, our scholarship funds distributed $828,000 in awards to 334 students.
 
If you know of a student who will be graduating in May, please help us spread the word about this opportunity. We also have scholarships that are for those already in college. Once a student completes the general application on our website (www.thcf.org), they receive a list of the scholarships that they are eligible to apply for and information on additional information required - like an essay, for example.
 
It's our privilege to work with many generous individuals who have a passion for education and have established a scholarship fund at the Community Foundation. We are very fortunate to have a team of 37 board members and advisory board members who will be reviewing the more than 2,200 applications that we expect to receive this year. Our thanks to all these volunteers who will be led this year by our board member Dr. Beth Savidge.
 
We are also pleased this year that the Department of Education’s FAFSA process is running smoothly after a very rocky year last year. We know that many applicants got frustrated with this process last year and we hear it’s a much better experience this time around.
 
While it may be cold outside it warms the hearts of everyone involved in this process to help students achieve their educational dreams. 

 
When it comes to heart health, many foods get an undeserved bad reputation. Many people hesitate to enjoy certain ingredients, fearing they might raise cholesterol or harm their cardiovascular health. However, many of these "feared" foods are safe and packed with the prime nutrients needed to keep your ticker working in tip-top shape. From eggs to nuts, and even the suspected soy, let’s break down the fear and bring back the benefits.

1. Eggs: No surprise eggs top the ‘foods-that-fear-list.’ There have been many misconceptions about their high cholesterol content, leading people to believe they are detrimental to heart health. Rest assured, recent studies have largely debunked this idea and explained that the cholesterol in eggs has minimal impact on blood cholesterol. The American Heart Association indicates that individuals can include up to a whole egg daily in a heart-healthy diet.
2. Nuts: Nuts often intimidate people because of their high fat and calorie content, leading to concerns about weight gain. However, the fats in nuts are predominantly unsaturated fats, which can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and fight inflammation. Nuts are also packed with nutrients like fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, promoting cardiovascular health. To incorporate nuts into a heart-healthy diet, enjoy a handful as a snack, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over salads. Another choice would be to use PB2 Performance Protein and add it to smoothies or oatmeal. This complete plant protein line is packed with almonds or peanuts as the first ingredient and contains no added sugar for a nutty protein boost we all need.
3. Dark Chocolate: This treat is often feared because it’s associated with indulgence and sugar, leading many to believe it’s unhealthy or detrimental to heart health. However, dark chocolate, specifically varieties with 70% cocoa or higher, can be a great option when chosen wisely. It’s rich in flavonoids, or antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, all supporting cardiovascular health. Consider trying Mid-Day Squares - a chocolatey snack with minimal sugar, to satisfy cravings. One square keeps you full and energized between meals, making it an ideal snack for busy schedules.
4. Soy Products: Many people worry that the compounds in soy, called isoflavones, mimic estrogen and could disrupt hormonal balance or harm health. However, extensive research shows that soy consumption is safe and offers numerous benefits, particularly for heart health. Soy is a rich plant-based protein and fiber source that can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and improve overall cardiovascular function. To include soy in a heart-healthy diet, consider adding tofu to stir-fry, snacking on steamed edamame, or blending Silk Unsweetened soy milk into smoothies for a dairy-free milk alternative with eight grams of plant protein.
5. Fruit: Despite their superfood status, fruits are oftentimes avoided due to misconceptions about spikes in blood sugar levels or overall sugar content. However, fruits are packed with winning nutrients needed for heart health. Blueberries, for example, are filled with fiber, vitamin C, and powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins, which help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel function. To include blueberries in a heart-healthy diet, enjoy them fresh or frozen as a snack, add them to yogurt, or frankly, they’re primed for a starring role in salads for a burst of natural sweetness.

 
Banana Split Overnight Oats
Serves 2
 
All you need:
2/3 cup Hy-Vee quick oats
1 tbsp. chia seeds
1 cup Silk Soy Milk
1 tbsp. Hy-Vee pure maple syrup
1 medium banana
Blueberries and strawberries
1 Mid-Day Square, chopped
 
All you do:

1. Combine 1/3 cup oats, 1/2 tablespoon chia seeds, 1/2 cup soy milk, 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup, and half a banana sliced into each mason jar. Stir well.
2. Cover with lid and place in refrigerator overnight.
3. Remove jar from fridge and top with blueberries and sliced strawberries. Sprinkle a chopped Mid-Day Square on top.

 
Adapted from: https://www.hy-vee.com/discover/recipes/banana-split-overnight-oats
 
The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice. This content was made possible with the support of our sponsors: PB2 Performance Protein, Mid-Day Squares, Silk and U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.
​

1904 Map, Original Town. 4 acres, more or less.
Photo credit: Grain Valley Historical Society
 

by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society

The City of Grain Valley is currently 6.17 Square miles. My quick calculation revealed that it is approximately 3,948.8 acres or 987 times larger than the original town in 1878. According to city records the population of Grain Valley in 1880 was 80 people. In 2020, the official population was 15,627 or about 196 times larger than 140 years earlier. That kind of puts things in prospective!

The Original town was platted to include 38 lots of varying sizes and stretched North to South from Walnut Street to Harris Street and East to West from Cypress Street to Broadway (now Main Street).
​
According to early records from the County Recorder of Deeds at the Jackson County Courthouse in Independence, the early lots were sold to W. B. Bishop, G. C. Browne, R. D. Wood, L M. Harris, J. A, Spindle, J. O. George, Dr. Keener, J. Keshlear, Mell Hulse, M. Bokin, Elisha Moore, Jacob F. Gregg, E. F. Williams, D. M. Majors, H. H. Dean, and the Chicago & Alton Railroad.

The railroad property included Lot 35 plus the “right of way” and the land where the original depot was built. That depot burned in 1920, and the new depot was built further west in the Graves ad Ashcraft Addition. This group included shop owners, a doctor and a few homeowners. (Visit the Historical Society to learn more about Grain Valley’s first citizens.)

Over the years these lots housed a livery stable, a couple of gasoline stations, a small hotel, a lumber yard, a farm supply and feed store, a hardware store, a millinery shop, a tonsorial (barber and bath), a plastics manufacturing company, grocery stores, a marina, restaurants, an ice house, a slaughter house, the depot, and two homes of very prominent residents: the Williams Family and Mr. & Mrs. Loring.   

These lots are currently occupied by two beauty shops, the muffler shop, the car wash, the tattoo parlor, a pet shop, J & M Auto Repair shop, EMIG Racing, and soon to open, a restaurant on Lot 26. I’ve read that the U. S. Post Office was housed in one of the businesses and by 1915, another business housed the telephone office. Of course, the telegraph office was at the depot.

From the beginning, the town had a mayor and council members who came together to vote and voice their opinions. In 1881, they voted to annex the Graves and Ashcroft Addition and the first City Directory was printed. (Grain Valley News, May 23, 2022). Next week I will write about the “west side” of Main Street.
​

From the Illustrated Atlas of
Jackson County Missouri, 1877
 
by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society

When doing research for my weekly article in Grain Valley News, it is always good to feel the information is accurate. Fortunately, this map is as accurate as we can get. It was printed just one year before Grain Valley became a town, so we know precisely who owned the land in and around our town when it was established on September 5, 1878.

Downtown Grain Valley is about as close as we can be to the center of Section 35.* In the May 19, 2022 issue of this paper, I wrote about James Lucas, the individual that gave 4 acres (more or less) of land to the city of Grain Valley. The information below was copied from the document found at the Recorder of Deeds office at the Jackson County Courthouse in Independence.
 
Know all men by those present that I James F. Lucas of the County of Logan in the State of Illinois do by those present set apart four acres of land located in the County of Jackson and the State of Missouri described as follows, that is to say, commencing fifty-eight feet south of northwest corner of the east quarter of the southwest quarter of Section (35) thirty-five, Township (49) forty-nine, Range 30, hence seven hundred and fifteen feet, hence east four hundred and forty feet, hence south to the railroad hence following the railroad due West one hundred and twenty feet hence south to the southern limits of the town hence West to the place of beginning making in all four acres more or less all of said tract of land situated on the Kansas City-St. Louis and (  ? )  railroad. For the ( ?  ) and purpose and profit of the town of Grain Valley.  The aforesaid town being laid off by Joseph Peters given under my hand and seal this fifty day of September A.D. 1878.  James H Cannon.
 
As I stated at the time, my research revealed that Lucas was a land speculator from Illinois and he never actually lived in Grain Valley. Once the town was established, his surrounding land would have been more valuable. James H. Cannon was the Notary Public who signed the deal. Remember, he had already built a mercantile next to the railroad! It would appear that nearly 150 years ago men were already looking for a great “financial” deal.

A few prominent patrons were listed in the atlas with addresses in Pink Hill or Stony Point. Remember it was 1877; there was no Grain Valley, yet! Those names were T. C. & D R. Broaddus, Jacob Gregg, and A. B. Hiell; all of Stony Point. And from Pink Hill the atlas listed M.L. Hall, B. F. Mitchell and Merrick Herrington (my great-great grandfather).
 
If you look closely, there are many names on the map in Sections 25 through 27 and 34 through 36 that I have written about in previous issues of Grain Valley News. They helped to establish our town which was incorporated on July 11, 1884. Hopefully, you will recognize some of them: Levi Potts, Britton Capelle, Elisha Moore, John Christison, and W. T. Gilliland to name a few. The men I have mentioned still have descendants in the area.  
 
 * A section if land is 640 acres or 1 square mile.
 
You can visit the Grain Valley Historical any Wednesday from 10:00am - 3:00pm and learn more about the families that participated in the democratic process that shaped our town.                                                                                       

by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
 
Twenty-one years after the United States Congress made Missouri the 24th state (August 10, 1821), Jacob Franklin Gregg was born on March 22, 1844. Some accounts tell us he was the first baby born in the tiny village of Stony Point. Known as Frank, he was one of ten children born to Jacob and Nancy Gregg, who came to Jackson County in 1825.

They purchased land at Stony Point in 1843. Jacob Gregg held several positions in Jackson County, including sheriff, postmaster, and in 1850 he was elected to the Missouri State House of Representatives. Gregg and his neighbors and fellow landowners, Alexander Mc Alexander, Henry Haines, William Baugh, Jesse Barnard, and Robert Parker, to name a few, saw fit to build a school, a church, and establish a general store and post office, all before the Civil War. Democracy in action!

Pink Hill was placed on the map by the United States Post Office in 1854 and Charles St Clair carried the first mail overland from Matthews Landing (near Levasy).  In the same year the first school was built. George Love and Asbury Neer platted a town of 40 lots on 10 acres where present day Pink Hill and Kirby roads intersect northeast of Grain Valley. The first homesteaders in the area were Samuel Young in 1843 and Jacob Keshlear and William Holland in 1845 and Robert Graham (my maternal great, great, great grandfather) in 1849.

Many of the families in both communities came from Kentucky or Tennessee, so on August 25, 1863, when General Thomas Ewing issued Order No. 11, both villages were abandoned by the residents with loyalties to the Confederate States of America. After the War Between the States some returned and others moved to the area.  Both villages continued to thrive for a few years.  School boards were established, mayors were elected, laws were written, the villages each had a sheriff. In 1871, the Pink Hill Methodist Church was established. In 1873, James H. Cannon arrived in Jackson County.  He was a farmer and teacher at Stony Point. Later he established a mercantile there, and in 1876 he became the postmaster.
​
Both villages hoped for the railroad to come through their community, but when the Chicago and Alton Railroad was completed in 1878, the tracks were laid in a more or less straight line from Oak Grove to Blue Springs. Both towns were bypassed. Mr. Cannon moved his mercantile to the railroad and Grain Valley was established!

by Tara Sallee MS, RD, LD

 
Shedding weight is tough, even with all the stars aligned—but add in a friend’s tip or internet advice, and it’s a whole new challenge. Obesity is a growing concern in today’s world, linked to serious health risks like high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes. For many, the desire to lower these risks is a strong incentive to work toward a healthier weight. Still, unfortunately, this pursuit is often overshadowed by widespread weight loss myths that can mislead and hinder progress.
 
Below, we debunk some of the most common weight loss myths and share tips to help you improve your well-being while fostering a healthy relationship with food.

1. XYZ diet works: Fad diets work for many people, but not for long. These diets are rarely sustainable for the long haul, plus many have food rules that cost you the joy of eating. Consider asking yourself, “Can you do this diet long term?” – as in forever. If the answer is no, move on. The tried-and-true way of losing weight and keeping it off is not a diet. It’s a form of healthy habits: eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and adequate sleep.
2. Exercise outweighs eating habits: You cannot outrun a bad diet. Yes, movement is crucial. However, it's time to reconsider if you’re solely counting on the gym to shed the weight. Exercise helps create a calorie deficit, but many fall into the trap of 'rewarding' their efforts with extra calories, undoing their hard work. A helpful guideline to remember is the 80/20 rule: 80% nutrition and 20% movement.
3. Cut carbs to lose: Whoever vilified this food group needs to be held accountable. Carbohydrates are important. They’re the main energy source for both the brain and the body. The key isn’t cutting them out entirely but understanding portion sizes. Too much of a good thing for any food item can backfire. Therefore, it’s good to remember that while high-protein diets are often hailed as the best for weight loss due to their role in keeping you full and supporting muscle, they work best when paired with smart, portion-controlled carbs. The winning equation is to build your meal with ¼ of the plate carbs, 1/4 protein and half with fruits and veggies.
4. Greatly reducing calories will get you your results: First, your body requires a certain number of calories to maintain basic body functions. Eating well below our daily requirement can hinder weight loss by slowing metabolism, and making it harder to reach your long-term goals. Not to mention, restricting calories can lead to an inadequate intake of essential nutrients, impacting overall health and energy levels. A moderate calorie deficit is essential to lose weight, however, that’s where a registered dietitian can provide an appropriate calorie level for your individual needs and goals.
5. Eating at night can make you gain: If you’re hoping for praise and approval for the 'no eating after 7 p.m.' rule, you might be looking in the wrong place. It’s not the timing that causes weight gain; it’s the choices and the portions of these that can set you back. Take a moment to check in with yourself: is your nighttime snacking driven by genuine hunger or simply out of habit? If it’s the latter, you may need to shut down the kitchen and crawl into bed.

 
If you're looking for personalized advice on nutrition trends or wondering how to kick-start your health and wellness journey in 2025, our team of Hy-Vee registered dietitians is here to help. Contact our Discovery Call Center at [email protected] or call (515) 695-3121 to schedule your complimentary Discovery Session today.
 
Strawberry Banana Performance Inspired Smoothie Bowl
Serves 2
 
All you need:
1 banana, peeled and frozen
1 scoop Vanilla bean Performance Inspired Performance Whey Protein
1 (5.3 oz.) Too Good Zero Sugar Madagascar Vanilla yogurt
1/2 cup sliced strawberries
2 tbsp. Hy-Vee sliced almonds
1 tsp. chia or hemp seeds
Additional toppings, as desired
 
All you do:

1. Blend a banana, whey protein powder and yogurt until smooth. Pour into two bowls.
2. Top with sliced strawberries, almonds, and chia seeds. Add additional toppings as desired.

 
Source: https://www.hy-vee.com/discover/recipes/strawberry-banana-performance-inspired-smoothie-bowl
 
The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice. This content was made possible with the paid support of our sponsors: Too Good Zero Sugar Yogurt, Performance Inspired, and Fairlife Core Power.

by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
 
As the Historical Society prepares for the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street, this column will reflect how Democracy: Voices & Votes has affected Grain Valley. The column is not meant to be a history lesson; it would take someone far more intelligent than me to write that column.  Rather, over the next several months I hope to focus on how our town came to be and some stories about how the citizens of our town have helped shape our history.  So, let's start at the beginning, not the beginning of our country, but the beginning of our state.

A petition to Congress from Missouri requesting statehood was presented by the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Henry Clay on January 8, 1818. The first U.S. Land Sale in Missouri was recorded at the St. Louis District Land Office on July 13, 1818. While Missouri had a population large enough for statehood, the voices of both the US Senate and the House of Representatives debated for over two years before voting to admit Missouri on August 10, 1821.

It was all part of the Missouri Compromise admitting Missouri as a slave state and Maine as a non-slave state so as not to upset the balance between slave and free states in the nation. Many statesmen agreed that the compromise both delayed the Civil War and sowed its seeds.

On December 15, 1826, the Missouri State Legislature authorized the "County of Jackson," named after the seventh president of the United States of America, Andrew Jackson. Land west of Buckner Tarsney was part of Osage Indian land from Treaty of 1808 and land east of Buckner Tarsney was part of Lafayette County Jackson County was purchased from the Osage Indians and carved into 9 townships.

Here are some historical facts.
1834  Sni-A-Bar Township was organized
1842  Robert St. Clair brought his wife and 6 children to a 1000-acre farm in the area which became Pink Hill in the late 1840s.  Their 12 -room home was destroyed during the Civil War.  
1844 Jacob Franklin Gregg was born at Stony Point on March 3, 1844 
1845  Benjamin and Lucinda Warren homesteaded near Tarsney Lake.
1847  William Robert Kirby went west to pan for gold.  He returned and married Susan Capelle.
1850  The Post Office opened at Stony Point and Jacob Gregg (father of Jacob Franklin Gregg) was  appointed the first postmaster.
1854  The first school house was built at Pink Hill.
July 25, 1854  A post office was established at Pink Hill.  Charles St. Clair carried the mail from Independence.
1858  Pleasant Valley Church (Baptist or Methodist) was built at Stony Point.
1860 The census establishes Jacob Gregg as living with wife Nancy and their 10 children in Stony Point.
1863 August 25, 1863: Order #11 issued by Gen. Ewing…. much of Pink Hill was burned by the Kansas   Red Hogs.
1873  James H Cannon arrived in Jackson County.  He was a farmer and teacher at Stony Point.  Later he established a mercantile there and in 1876 he became the postmaster.

by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
 
After three years of striving to establish a market for a Historical Society calendar, I give up! There are so many free calendars out there, I have not been successful in selling a Grain Valley Historical Society calendar.  While I saw the $10 price as a donation to support the Society, most people saw it as the price for a calendar they didn’t need. So, like many ideas that come and go, the calendar is history. So is The Royal Playhouse.

The final picture in the final calendar is The Royal Playhouse. It was built around 1910 on lot 1 & 2 in the Yennie addition by Jasper Newton Sanders, my maternal great grandfather. The building had two small businesses on the east end facing Broadway, now Main Street. On one side there was a chili parlor operated by Sanders’ son-in-law, Walter Elliott. The other side was a haberdashery operated by another Sanders son-in-law, James I. (Jib) Belford. The remainder of the building was one large room with a stage across the west end.

Over the next twenty years, the building served a variety of functions. Community plays and musical productions were performed there along with silent movies and later talkies. It was used as a skating rink, for dances and as a basketball court. After the first high school burned in November 1925, the high school basketball games were played there. It was also one of the many spaces used for classes during the 1925-26 year until a new school could be built.

After Newt Sanders died, it was operated by a Mr. Hall for a short time. By 1940, it had become a gasoline station and auto repair shop operated by Ray Frantz. And finally, after 1945 it was purchased by Mr. Fred Roberts. Known as “the junk yard,” it was actually in business as a salvage yard, scraping jeeps, trucks, tanks, and occasionally air planes bought from the U. S. Government after World War II. The build set empty for several years before it was torn down. The space is now one of the Downtown Grain Valley parking lots on the Northwest corner of Main and Walnut Streets.
​
I will also continue to look for a better photograph of the building, when it was new and in its prime; perhaps one taken during the Roaring 20's. As always, I seek your help in locating such a photo!

As we begin a new year it’s a great time to reflect on milestones from this year in charitable giving and think about our goals and hopes for the coming year.

At your Community Foundation for Eastern Jackson County (Truman Heartland Community Foundation) we have many highlights to celebrate from 2024, made possible by the generosity of our fundholders.

The growth of charitable contributions within our foundation has set records in several important categories, including Grants, Scholarships, Donor Advised Fund contributions, and legacy building.

GRANTS & SCHOLARSHIPS:
We set another record for total number of grants distributed to hundreds of nonprofit organizations and student scholarships in our community. The total in 2024 is $9 million compared to $7.3 million in 2023: an increase of 23%.

An important portion of this total is scholarships which set a new record of $828,000 in 2024. These scholarships from 173 scholarship funds will enhance the education opportunities of the 334 students who received scholarships.

The total amount is an increase of 70% in scholarships compared to the total in 2020. All of this has been made possible by the generosity of people in our community who have a passion for education and compassion for those who can use some support to achieve their educational dreams.

DONOR ADVISED FUNDS:
Our Donor Advised Fundholders continue to set records making generous grants from their funds to their favorite charities. Grants from these 320 funds totaled $4.5 million in 2024 compared to $3.1 million in 2023, an increase of 45%.

More than 1,800 separate grants were made from these Donor Advised Funds, and every one of them tells a story about the passion a fundholder has for a nonprofit and their compassion for those served by the organization.

We are pleased that we added 43 new funds in 2024 and welcome these new members to our foundation family.
 
BUILDING LEGACIES:
We also had 14 families join our Heartland Legacy Society by including their fund at the Foundation in their estate plans. It’s our pleasure to work with these families (now totaling 204) to enable them to leave a legacy through their charitable giving.
 
We are extremely grateful for the generosity of our fundholders, who are key members of our foundation family. As we look forward to 2025 my hope is that the care and concern that our foundation family has for the community is contagious.

In a time in our country’s history when division seems to be the common theme, it brings such a sense of hopefulness for our future when local donors are showing so much generosity to our community. Wouldn’t it be a much better world if compassion and the passion for supporting charity went viral and our focus was building stronger communities together everywhere. Happy New Year!

by Tara Sallee MS, RD, LD, Hy-Vee Corporate Dietitian 

 
The New Year is a great time to reset and focus on feeling your best. It’s when many of us set goals to eat healthier, move more, and take better care of ourselves. As our understanding of nutrition evolves, new trends shape how we approach healthy living. In 2025, the focus is making simple, smart choices that boost energy and support overall health. More than ever, people are looking for foods and drinks that taste great and help make the journey to wellness easier and more enjoyable.
 
Here’s a closer look at some top trends for 2025:

1. Protein-Packed Choices
Protein will continue to shine in 2025, and it’s not just for athletes! From keeping you full longer to supporting muscle repair and energy levels, protein plays a key role in a healthy lifestyle. Expect protein-packed snacks and beverages designed to meet the needs of everyone, from busy professionals to fitness enthusiasts. Brands like Fairlife Core Power and Performance Inspired Whey Protein make incorporating high-quality protein into your day easier.
 
Fairlife Core Power is a perfect example of this trend. Each bottle delivers 26 grams of high-quality protein in each bottle to help build and repair muscle. But it doesn’t stop there- Core Power also includes electrolytes to support hydration. This ready-to-drink beverage is an easy, on-the-go high-protein option for busy individuals looking to fuel their day. Whether you're heading to the gym, tackling a busy workday, or need a quick snack, Core Power provides a convenient and delicious solution to support your protein needs without the hassle of preparing a meal.
 
Then there is Performance Inspired Whey Protein, a versatile and high-quality whey protein formula with 25 grams of protein per serving. It also includes digestive enzymes and 5 grams of fiber to support digestion and keep you satisfied longer. This protein powder mixes easily into recipes for a convenient, nutritious boost. Try the simple recipe below to supplement your daily nutrition or enhance your post-workout recovery!
 
2. Functional Foods and Beverages
Functional foods are gaining ground in 2025, offering health benefits beyond essential nutrition. These products often include ingredients for specific health needs, such as probiotics for gut health or added vitamins and minerals for immune function. Research on the microbiome is advancing, revealing gut health's significant role in everything from digestion to mental well-being.
 
Functional beverages like kombucha, kefir, and drinks infused with adaptogens are gaining traction due to their potential to support digestion, energy levels, and stress management. These options make incorporating health benefits into everyday eating and drinking habits easier. For example, a dietitian's favorite, Too Good Zero Sugar Yogurt, contains probiotics that may support gut health. This yogurt is low in sugar and includes live and active cultures, which may support digestion and contribute to a balanced microbiome.
 
3.  Convenience with Nutrition
In 2025, busy lifestyles will continue to be a significant factor, but consumers increasingly seek convenience without sacrificing nutrition. The trend toward minimal-ingredient cooking is gaining traction, with more people opting for quick, simple, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare. Products like pre-chopped vegetables, heat-and-eat proteins, and one-pan meal kits make meal prep more efficient.
 
Still have questions on nutrition trends or just wondering how to get started on your health and wellness journey? Speak with a Hy-Vee registered dietitian who can help you create a plan that works for you. If you’re ready to learn how a Hy-Vee dietitian can help you, schedule a complimentary Discovery Session today by contacting our Discovery Call Center at [email protected] or calling (515) 695-3121.

Image Courtesy of Hy-Vee Inc.
 

Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Energy Balls
Serves 25
 
All you need:

• 1 ½ c. quick oats
• 1 ½ c. creamy peanut butter
• ½ c. Performance Inspired whey vanilla bean protein powder
• ½ c. semisweet chocolate baking chips
• ¼ c. honey
• 1 pinch(es) salt

All you do:

1. Combine oats, peanut butter, protein powder, chocolate chips, honey, and salt in a medium bowl. Use a tablespoon measure to scoop dough, roll into balls. Store, covered, at room temperature.

by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society
 
Last week I told you Aunt Ellen (Snodgrass) lived in the house on Lot 9 in the Grain Valley addition known as Davis Place. There were 19 lots in the addition with houses along both sides of North Main Street, now Front Street and along the south side of Walnut Street from Capelle west to the edge of town. In those days, the “edge of town” was a mere 250 feet away. The entire addition was 250 feet (east to west)  and 670.5 feet (north to south; or Walnut to the railroad track).

By the later 1940s until the 1990s, Lot 9 was known as the Heidelberger Home. Hazel (Kiff) and Tom Heidelberger lived there for more than 50 years. The door on the left led into the kitchen where the cookie jar was always full when I would go there with my grandmother or my (real) Aunt Opal.  Tom’s mother lived across the street in the home August and Margaret (McAlexander) Heidelberger had owned since the early 1900s. Tom’s sister Ruth Brown lived in the house next door on Lot 10.

Aunt Hazel (Kiff) came to Grain Valley from California. She was raised by her aunt; yes Ella (Mrs. Ray Frantz) really was her aunt! Tom died in 1980. Their daughter, Florence Marlow, lived with her mother for a short time before “Aunt” Hazel died in 1992. 

Like Aunt Ellen, Aunt Hazel was my Sunday School teacher in the primary class; first, second and third grades. Like Ellen Snodgrass, she was very nurturing and kind. We all loved her. I recall that she always remembered us on our birthday with a small gift, like a handkerchief or hair barrettes. She made each of us feel special on our birthday.

I am very happy that the house on Lot 9 along with others along Front Street has been or is being renovated. Most of these houses were built around the turn of the last century (late 1890s to early 1900s) and it is wonderful that they are being restored - maybe for another 100 years!

The holidays are a time to gather, celebrate and enjoy delicious meals with loved ones. However, for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, navigating holiday gatherings can be quite stressful. As Hy-Vee dietitians, we’re here to make entertaining for gluten-free guests simple and enjoyable! Let’s dive into the basics of a gluten-free diet and five must-have gluten-free foods perfect for holiday entertaining. Plus, I’ll share how to access a free "Foods That Fit" Gluten-Free Grocery Guide to make meal planning even easier!
 
The Basics of a Gluten-Free Diet
A gluten-free diet avoids gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and a wheat-rye hybrid called triticale. For those with celiac disease, consuming gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the small intestine. Even trace amounts from cross-contamination can cause harm. Gluten sensitivity, on the other hand, causes discomfort—such as bloating, stomach cramps and indigestion without causing damage to the intestines. It’s important to keep your gluten-free guests in mind, ensuring no cross-contamination occurs in the kitchen or at the table. Use separate cookware and utensils to prevent accidental exposure.
 
Five Gluten-Free Foods to Make Holiday Entertaining a Breeze
Here are five gluten-free options to help you easily accommodate your guests while still serving delicious food this holiday season:

1. Gluten-Free Chex™ Cereal: Chex™ cereals are made with whole grains and fortified with essential vitamins and minerals. They come in various flavors: Rice, Cinnamon, Chocolate, Honey Nut, Blueberry, Peanut Butter, Apple Cinnamon and Corn. These versatile cereals make a perfect base for gluten-free party snacks, such as the popular Gluten-Free Original Chex™ Party Mix—an easy and tasty addition to any holiday gathering.
2. Sweet Loren’s Gluten-Free Cookie Dough: Holiday baking is a breeze with Sweet Loren’s gluten-free cookie dough. These cookies are simple to bake and are even safe to enjoy raw. Available in varieties with 40% less sugar than other leading brands, Sweet Loren’s dough is non-GMO, plant-based, gluten-free, and free from dairy, peanuts and tree nuts, making it a fantastic choice for a variety of dietary needs.
3. Good Graces Products: Good Graces offers gluten-free versions of holiday staples like gravy, stuffing, French-fried onions, and cream of mushroom soup—essential ingredients for many classic holiday dishes. Available exclusively at Hy-Vee, these affordable products help take the guesswork out of gluten-free holiday cooking.
4. Popcorn: Popcorn is a naturally gluten-free, fiber-rich snack that’s easy to customize for your holiday spread. Whether you add it to a party mix, shape it into festive popcorn balls, or serve it on its own, this versatile snack is perfect for entertaining. Popcorn adds crunch and can be seasoned to fit any flavor profile.
5. In-Season Produce: Fresh, in-season produce is a wonderful way to incorporate fiber, flavor, and color into your gluten-free dishes. Pumpkins, pomegranate arils, cranberries, and Brussels sprouts are all naturally gluten-free and packed with nutrients. Try a vibrant Raw Brussel Sprouts Salad with Pomegranate to impress your guests with a dish that’s as healthy as it is beautiful.

 
Make Holiday Meal Planning Easier with General Mills "Foods That Fit" Gluten-Free Guide
If you want more gluten-free food inspiration, download the free "Foods That Fit" Gluten-Free Grocery Guide from the General Mills Bell Institute of Health & Nutrition. This guide includes a list of gluten-free products that can help remove the guesswork of what to serve your gluten-free guests this holiday season.
 
Contact your local Hy-Vee dietitian for personalized nutrition advice on navigating a gluten-free diet. Whether you need help creating a gluten-free holiday menu or managing a gluten-free lifestyle year-round, we can offer tailored strategies to fit your needs and health goals. Visit Hy-Vee.com/Health for more information on our Individual Nutrition Consultations.
 
Gluten-Free Original ChexTM Party Mix (Serves 22)
 
All you need:
4 cups Corn ChexTM
4 cups Rice ChexTM
2 cups CheeriosTM
2 cups bite-size gluten-free pretzel sticks or twists
6 tbsp vegan dairy-free buttery vegetable oil spread
2 tbsp gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
1½ tsp gluten-free seasoned salt
¾ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
 
All you do:

1. Heat oven to 250°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix cereals and pretzels until well blended. In a small microwave-safe bowl, microwave vegetable oil spread uncovered on High for 30 to 40 seconds or until melted. Stir in seasonings. Pour over cereal mixture; stir until evenly coated. Transfer to an ungreased roasting pan.
3. Bake 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Spread on paper towels to cool for about 15 minutes. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

 
Source: https://www.hy-vee.com/recipes-ideas/recipes/gluten-free-original-chex-party-mix

by Marcia Napier, Grain Valley Historical Society


Needless to say, I was overjoyed when I drove West on Front Street a few weeks ago and discovered that another home was being renovated, or as I like to say, brought back to life. While the historical part of me would like to see it painted white and restored with some of the original charm, I am just glad it isn’t being torn down.

The house is built on Lot 8 of Davis Place, an addition to Grain Valley filed with the Jackson County Recorder of Deeds on October 8, 1888 by William and Nancy Davis. Without some additional research (for a warmer day and another trip to the Recorder’s office at the courthouse in Independence, MO) I cannot tell you when this house was built or by whom.

What I can tell you is I have always referred to the home as the Snodgrass House.  That’s because, Ellen Snodgrass lived there in the 1950s and 60s. Ellen was the widow of Marvin Snodgrass (1888-1936) a farmer in Grain Valley. While Ellen  (Beyers) grew up in Blue Springs, Marvin was born (and died) in Grain Valley.

His grandparents came to Jackson County from Virginia, his father Parmer was born south of town and married Sarah Potts. Marvin’s sisters were May Corlew and Molly Roof long-time residents with homes next door to each other on Walnut Street, just across the back alley from “Aunt” Ellen.

No, she was not my aunt, but when I grew up, we call a female contemporary of our parents and grandparents either Mrs. or Aunt; it’s just what you did. I knew Aunt Ellen well because she was my first Sunday School teacher. She, along with her sisters-in-law, attended the old Methodist Church on Capelle Street and Aunt Ellen taught in the nursery for 35 years.

​I was one of the lucky children to receive her hugs, homemade cookies, and Bible stories back then. In the fall of 1952, I began 1st grade and so Aunt Hazel (Heidelburger) became my teacher. She lived in the house next door, Lot 9, Davis Place. Maybe that’s some history for another story.