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.

The holiday season is the perfect time to create memories with family and friends. It’s a time for gathering, sharing laughter, and enjoying special moments together. With so many holidays involving food, much of our time is spent in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking cookies, preparing a festive feast, or experimenting with new recipes, involving the kids can create lasting memories!
 
Letting kids help in the kitchen can teach them valuable skills, healthy habits and encourage creativity. Many basic skills are involved in the cooking and baking process, such as measuring, stirring and following directions. Kids are also more likely to try new foods if they help prepare them, so this is a great opportunity to develop healthy habits by including nutritious ingredients in your dishes. Whether you’re making snacks, a dessert, or a side dish, cooking allows kids to experiment with different flavors, colors, and textures.
 
Gluten Free Original ChexTM Party Mix is a classic and versatile holiday recipe. Simple, easy, and allergy-friendly, this recipe is one that kids of all ages can be involved in making. Serve it as an appetizer spread, a Christmas movie night snack or make it into a craft! After preparing your ChexTM mix, put it into a glass jar, tie a festive ribbon around it and give it away as gifts or party favors from the kids!  
 
Another recipe kids of all ages can be involved in is baking cookies. These Black and White Peppermint Cookies from Sweet Loren’s take holiday treats to a new level while being allergy-friendly! Sweet Loren’s refrigerated cookie dough is pre-portioned, plant-based and free of the top 14 allergens, including gluten, dairy, peanuts and tree nuts. Bake the perfect cookie in minutes or enjoy raw! Have your kids get creative by decorating the cookies with crushed candy canes, chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips! They can be served as a Christmas dessert or put the cookies into a festive holiday tin and given as gifts from the kids.
 
The holiday season can go by in a flash. Don’t forget to involve your kids in the kitchen! It is a great opportunity to develop healthier habits and get your little ones comfortable in the kitchen. Save the date to join our KidsFit in the Kitchen with Hy-Vee Dietitians virtual cooking class! These classes are led by Hy-Vee registered dietitians who will teach your child basic kitchen skills with simple, follow along recipes, recommended for children 5 – 12 years of age. This month’s class will be held on Dec. 11 at 4:30 p.m. Can’t attend live? All those who register will receive a recording of this month’s class! Register today!
 
Gluten-Free Original ChexTM Party Mix
 
All you need:
4 cups corn ChexTM cereal
4 cups rice ChexTM cereal
2 cups CheeriosTM cereal
2 cups gluten-free pretzel sticks or tiny twists
6 tbsp Country Crock dairy–free plant butter with avocado stick butter (or any dairy free, vegan spread of your choice)
2 tbsp gluten-free Worcestershire sauce
1 ½ tsp gluten-free seasoned salt
¾ tsp Hy-Vee garlic powder
½ tsp Hy-Vee onion powder
 
All you do:

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F. Combine the corn and rice Chex cereals, Cheerios and pretzels in a large bowl; set aside.
2. Place plant butter in a small microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup. Microwave on HIGH for 30-40 seconds or until melted. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Pour plant butter mixture over cereal mixture; stir to evenly coat. Transfer the cereal mixture to an ungreased large roasting pan.
4. Bake for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Spread mixture 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
 
Black & White Peppermint Cookies
 
All you need:
1 package Sweet Loren’s Sugar Cookie Dough
1 package Sweet Loren’s Fudgy Brownie Cookie Dough
½ cup white chocolate chips
1-2 tsp coconut oil
Peppermint candy or crushed candy canes
 
All you do:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F and let the cookie dough sit at room temperature until it becomes soft to the touch, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Cut all sugar cookie dough and fudgy brownie cookie dough portions in half.
3. Use only half of each cookie dough flavor and press them together firmly, using your fingertips to smush together the edges of each cookie so they are held together.
4. Once all half-and-half cookies are assembled, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet about 2 inches apart and cook for 11 to 14 minutes.
5. Once cookies are baked, cool on a wire baking rack. You can even put them in the fridge to speed up the process and make the chocolate dipping easier.
6. While the cookies cool, combine the white chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 45 seconds. Mix well with a fork and melt again for 30 seconds if needed.
7. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dip them into the melted chocolate and place them back on parchment paper. We recommend dipping 4 to 5 at a time and then sprinkle the peppermint crunch on top. Repeat until all cookies are dipped and sprinkled with peppermint candies.
8. Place in the fridge to let the chocolate harden. Then serve and enjoy.

 
Source: https://sweetlorens.com/blogs/lets-dish/black-white-peppermint-cookies
 
Are you looking to improve your health or the health of your family? By scheduling this complimentary session, you will meet your Hy-Vee registered dietitian and learn about the services offered and what package is the perfect fit for you to start your wellness journey. To learn more, visit https://www.hy-vee.com/healthnew/dietitians and schedule a complimentary Discovery Session with your Hy-Vee dietitian.  
 
This content was made possible with the paid support of our sponsors: General Mills Bell Institute of Health & Nutrition and Sweet Loren’s. The information is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a medical professional for individual advice.