This video is a little long but hard not to watch through to the end (especially if you love dogs). Hope you enjoy it.

Rosie

THE RICE-TREMONTI HOME

1844 Homestead on the Santa Fe Trail

8801 East 66^th Street

Raytown, MO 64133

SUMMER TOURS

Saturdays and Sundays  12:00-4:00

June thru September

Admission $3 per person

The oldest standing frame house in Jackson County, Missouri, the Rice-Tremonti Home along with Aunt Sophie's Cabin have borne witness to the sweep of American history. This site was settled first in 1836 by Archibald Rice and family. They built the Gothic-Revival farm house in 1844. With beginnings as a way-point on the Santa Fe Trail and as jumping off point for emigrants to Oregon and California, the wooden house endured the ravages of border warfare and the Civil War. With a history spanning 173 years, the Rice-Tremonti Home has an important story to tell.

Bring this flyer with you and save $1 off admission.

Memorial Day BY GREG WALTERS

Of all our holidays, Memorial Day holds a special place as one of the most peaceful and restful of holidays.

To many, it is a way to honor those who have fallen in service to our country. To many more, it is a time to remember those who have moved on from this life . . . especially those who were close to us.

So, whether it is brother, sister, mother, father or old friend that we can warmly remember – take the time to do so. The fact that you miss and remember them is testament to the fact that they have left a gift, a part themselves with you, even though they are no longer with us.

Our lives are often times too busy, and most certainly too short. Take the peace of this Memorial Day and relish in the knowledge that what you had is special enough to remember and honor.

Mark Your Calendar!

RAYTOWN SUMMERFEST - JUNE 8^TH AND 9TH

Mark your calendars for two big Days of Fun, Friends & BBQ. The Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce is conducting its Annual Barbeque Cookoff and Community Festival on June 8^th and 9^th. Located in Downtown Raytown, the popular annual event promises to be bigger and better than ever.

The schedule for the two day event is as follows:

FRIDAY, JUNE 8 – 4:00 TO 10:00 PM

BBQ Lunch Specials will start at Noon on Friday!

6:30-9:30pm ~ Live Entertainment
FOUR FRIED CHICKENS & A COKE

SATURDAY, JUNE 9 – 7:00 AM TO 10:00 PM

7:00-10:00am ~ Chris Cakes Pancake Breakfast

1:00pm ~ “Sausage Sprint” Dachshund Races & All Breed Dog Costume Contest

4:00pm ~ Barbeque Cookoff Awards Presentation

6:00-9:00pm ~ Live Entertainment
THE ELSEA SMITH BAND

SATURDAY NIGHT SPECIAL!

Come out Saturday night and enjoy a delicious
BBQ dinner while enjoying the sounds of
The Elsea Smith Band. 

Click on this link for a

 FREE BBQ SANDWICH 

With a purchase of a BBQ Rib Dinner.

Enjoy a FREE BBQ sandwich from 6-10pm!
Print as many as you like and pass out
to your employees, friends and family! 

 

Congressional Candidates to Appear at Summerfest

Raytown’s annual Summerfest/Barbeque Cookoff is just around the corner. This being a Presidential Election Year I would expect to see quite a few politicians at the event. After all, Raytown has, for the first time in decades, a state legislative seat that will be uniquely Raytown. 

There is also a spirited contest shaping up between three Republicans vying for the chance to take on long time incumbent Congressman Emanuel Cleaver of the Fifth District.

So, I checked with Vicki Turnbow, the Executive Director of the Raytown Area Chamber of Commerce to see who planned to be at the event.

I was surprised to learn that none of the three candidates running for the State Representative seat had purchased a booth. 

Not so for the three Republicans filed for the Fifth Congressional District. All three of the, Jacob Turk, who has run for Congress more times than can be remembered . . . a newcomer named Jason Greene . . . and Jerry Nolte, a veteran member of the State House of Representatives finishing his fourth term, will all be on hand for the event.

No doubt other candidates will be on hand as well. But these three have at least stepped up to show support for the community by paying for a booth at the event.

Reward Grows in Raytown Slaying BY CHRISTINE VENDEL, CVENDEL@KCSTAR.COM

The family of a man shot to death while jogging in Raytown earlier this month has added $500 to a reward fund for information in the unsolved homicide.

The reward now stands at $1,500 for information in the death of Harry Stone, 60, who was shot in a random attack about 7 a.m. on Mother’s Day along Blue Ridge Boulevard near 67th Street. A dark-colored four-door sedan pulled alongside Stone and a passenger fired several shots at him. Video surveillance from a nearby store recorded an image of the car.

Police said the shooting may have stemmed from a dare or gang initiation.

Anyone with information should call the TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS (474-8477). Callers remain anonymous.

Fit Bottomed Girls . . .

Triathlon Made Me Cry BY KRISTEN

My first tri of the season is in the bag. A couple of weeks ago, I participated in the Danskin Triathlon Series near Orlando (thanks to The XXtra Mile for sponsoring my registration!), and while my performance wasn’t anything to write home about (1:47:20 for a 1/2-mile swim, 12-mile bike and 3-mile run), this was one race where my personal performance was just about as far from the front of my mind as it could get.

The Danskin Tri Series is an all-women event, and it’s very strongly geared toward women who might not otherwise do a triathlon, in part because of the distances offered (Sprint, which is the distance listed above, and Super Sprint, 1/4-mile swim, 8-mile bike and 2-mile run), and partly because, from the very beginning, we were all strongly encouraged to help each other out.

Which, truly, is something that happens a lot in triathlon anyway—during one race where I was suffering from dehydration on the run, I lost track of how many people stopped as they went by me to make sure I was alright and didn’t need help, and I’ve never competed in a tri where fellow participants didn’t cheer each other on at turnaround points and as they passed each other.

READ MORE





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One of our local physicians sent the following video. Pretty interesting choreography – Enjoy!

MAD WORLD

Car Remains Key Clue In Raytown Slaying KMBC.com

A Metro Squad is no longer working to investigate the slaying of a Raytown man that happened early Sunday along Blue Ridge Boulevard.

Harry Stone, 60, was out jogging past a gas station near the bridge over Missouri Highway 350 when a passenger in a passing car fired a shot and killed him.

Raytown police said they're still trying to find the car involved in the case. They released surveillance video of a newer-model sedan that they're looking for. VIEW VIDEO

KMBC 9 News showed images of the car to appraisers, technicians, collision repair technicians and body shop managers. All agreed that they saw some front-end damage to the car.

They said they believe the car is a foreign model, but they said it was harder to be more specific because of words that are superimposed over the surveillance pictures.
Police asked anyone with information about the car or the shooting to call the Crime Stoppers TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS

Raytown to “Re-Brand” for All Star Game FROM KMBC.com

When Major League Baseball visits the Kansas City area for the All-Star Game this summer, Raytown wants to make sure visitors stop by. The city is planning to rebrand itself this summer in order to lure more business during the festivities.

Lufti's Fried Fish is cooking up some of its signature fried dishes.

"The fish, once you bite into it, it will bite you back," said Lufti's Verletta Martin.

Lufti's is one of 30 businesses that are cooking up special deals for the All-Star Game.

"Raytown is not where people expect to come for events. But, we do have nice places for you to come hang out," said Martin. READ MORE

The Paul Livius Report

Board of Alderman Meeting  05-15-12

The Invocation was given by Steve Jones of the Brooking Heights Baptist Church.

Mayor Bower proclaimed May 18 as Raytown Night at the Royals.   He proclaimed May 20 – 26 to be Public Works Week.  He also proclaimed May 20 – 26 to be emergency Medical Service Week.

Mayor Bower said the death of Harry Stone to be a very sad event in Raytown.  The hearts of the whole community goes out to his family.  Mayor Bower said the police and Metro Squad were working very hard to find the people who committed this horrible crime.

The City Administrator said the City Clean Up went well.  There was heavy traffic for the first 2 hours, but by 10:30 am there was no line on Raytown Road.  This year, residents filled 35 dumpsters, compared to 47 last year.

• Alice Stohl came before the Board to report this year’s Senior Expo will have 27 vendors and lots of wonderful food.  This is a good opportunity for people to see City Hall. 
• Chief Jim Lynch introduced Jackson County Sheriff Mike Sharp.  Sheriff Sharp said the cooperation between the Sheriff’s department and the Raytown Police Department had increased.

Mark Loughry told the Board the annual City Financial audit went well.  The auditors are Cochran, Head and Vick.  They reported they found several deficiencies in the City’s accounting.  Mr. Loughry told the Board he agreed there were several problems, all related to the prior Finance Director.  He is actively working to correct the problems. 

• The Board heard a resolution authorizing and approving the purchase ofparts and certain vehicle repairs from Bob Sight Ford in Lee’s Summit in excess of $15,000.00.  Alderman Ertz said the City needs to review the purchasing policy with the staff.  He said we have 10 auto repair shops in Raytown.  He asked why we can’t bid  for vehicle repair from Raytown businesses.  Alderman Lightfoot asked Andy Noll if this was sent out to bid to Raytown businesses in the past.  Mr. Noll said the city chose Bob Sight Ford, but Dick Smith is sometimes less expensive.  It depends on the availability of parts.  Alderman Van Buskirk said the City should use Raytown businesses more often.  The City Administrator told the Board this resolution was about spending money, not purchasing practices.  If they wanted to change the purchasing procedures, that was a discussion for another day.  Alderman Lightfoot said he would love to see the City buy only from Raytown businesses, but they have to consider the best way to spend taxpayer money.  He said we would all like to buy American, but we still buy things at Walmart. The resolution was passed.

• The Board passed a resolution authorizing certain property owned by the City as Surplus.  There are 4 vehicles, 1999 GMC C-3500, 2003 Ford F-550, 2012 Ford F-150 and Ford F-550.  There are also 2 Toro mowers no longer used by the Public Works department.
• The Board passed a resolution authorizing and approving a consulting services agreement with Milliman Inc. for actuarial consulting services in an amount not to exceed $12,000.00.  This is a consulting company for the Police Pension fund.
• The Board passed a resolution authorizing and approving the purchase of a field training officer system from Crown Pointe Technologies in the amount of $5,490.00, the purchase of two wireless transceivers and equipment from Setcom Corporation in the amount of $5,500.00 and the purchase of audio/visual camera equipment and accessories from B & H in the amount of $2,500.00 for a total amount not to exceed $13,490.00.
• The Board passed a resolution authorizing and approving the purchase of digital P25 capable/compliant mobile and portable radios and equipment from Motorola Solutions, Incorporated in an amount not to exceed $191,000.00.
• The Board passed an ordinance amending the first amendment to the first
• amended and restated Raytown Live Tax Increment financing plan and approving Project 2 as a redevelopment project and adopting tax increment financing.
• The Board heard the first reading on an ordinance authorizing and approving a municipal agreement with the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission for sidewalk improvements along 350 Highway.

The Board moved to a closed session.

Purchasing Policy Should be Revisited BY GREG WALTERS

Ward 4 Alderman Pat Ertz made some comments at last Tuesday’s meeting of the Raytown City Council that may shake up how the city awards contracts to service providers. 

Ertz was unhappy that local merchants were being passed over in favor of competing contractors not located in Raytown. He argued that the city should give consideration to the fact that local business owners directly support the city through property and business taxes. 

Most of the discussion centered on automotive services. Public Works Director Andy Noll, who manages the automotive bids for the city, told the Board that sometimes local bids are lower. However, his recommendation remained with the out of town bidder.

A number of Aldermen spoke in agreement with Mr. Ertz’s suggestion that local vendors be used. But when the roll call was called Alderman Ertz was the only vote* against a resolution awarding a $15,000.00 contract to Bob Sight Ford of Lee’s Summit.

*Aldermen Melson and Creamer were absent.

A strong argument can be made for supporting local businesses in the city’s purchasing practices. One easy step would be to be more concise on the contract packages. Mr. Noll told Board members that sometimes Dick Smith Ford of Raytown is less expensive than the bid price of Bob Sight Ford of Lee’s Summit. 

The fault lies in using an “all or nothing” bid procedure that can end up costing the city more money.

Another point that should be factored in is the expense and time used to take cars to an out of town location. This can be especially costly if police personnel are used to shuttle the vehicles back and forth from the city.

Fit Bottomed Girls

LEARNING THROUGH TEACHING BY JENN

The joke goes that those who can’t do, teach. And while I’m not going to agree with that entirely for obvious reasons (although I do think that in many ways we’re drawn to things that we love and want to do better), I will say that one thing is definitely true: those who teach, learn. Like big time. Since I’ve started... Continue reading
 

To post a comment on this blog click on the word comments on the line directly below this sentence.

So much of the news is depressing if not down right frightening these days. Use the following two links to see stories of success against may seem like impossible odds. 

Blind Girl Sings 
Mother and Blind Baby Boy

-- BREAKING NEWS --

 

Apparent drive-by shooting kills beloved Raytown man By CHRISTINE VENDEL OF THE KANSAS CITY STAR

William Cranfill looked out his window Sunday morning and saw his neighbor, Harry M. Stone, walking down the street.

Cranfill saw Stone nearly every morning, either walking his dog, Max, or going for a jog. He didn’t know it was the last time he’d see Stone alive.

Stone, 60, was killed in an apparent drive-by shooting near 67th Street and Blue Ridge Boulevard, less than a mile and a half from his Raytown home. Police found him collapsed in the grass near the street after a witness reported the shooting about 7:20 a.m. He died later at a hospital. READ MORE

Man Shot, Sent to Hospital By Laura McCallister, KCTV

A person is recovering in the hospital after an early morning shooting.

Raytown Police were called to 66th Street and Hardy Avenue a little past midnight Saturday after neighbors reported hearing the sound of gunfire.

When police arrived, they saw people run inside a home and a Dodge Stratus hurriedly leaving the area.

Police attempted to stop the Dodge which fled from police and a car chase ensued. During the chase, police said an unknown young black man, about 6' tall, wearing a white shirt and black shorts jumped out of the vehicle and ran from police near 66th Street and Maywood Avenue. READ MORE

 

So, What is “Plan B”? BY GREG WALTERS

The recent decision by the Raytown Board of Aldermen to change the management of Super Splash to a private firm may or may not be a good decision. The information provided by the Park Board and the Raytown Board of Aldermen is, to say the least, minimal.

From the discussion at the last Council meeting here is what we do know:

The Aquatic Director of the Raytown Park Department resigned his position. Surprisingly, there was absolutely no discussion as what brought about such a quick decision. Normally, exit interviews would provide some light on to this subject. As it stands, the public is left completely in the dark as to what exactly happened.

One question, asked by Ward 3 Alderman Charlotte Melson, made a lot of sense. She asked, “what is plan B”. Park Board Director Kevin Boji’s answer that there was no plan B is an unacceptable reply and the Board should have been given some options.

To his credit, Mayor Bower, though not too forcefully, suggested that the Board could carry the item over to another meeting for a final decision. None of the Board picked up on the suggestion and the Mayor did not expand on the thought.

After some lengthy discussion the Board did what is becoming expected of them. The followed the direction of the appointed city staff.

Was it the right decision? Time will tell.

The downside is that the pool will run at a greater deficit than it did last year (and that is based on the Park Board’s own figures!). Our elected officials should be more forthcoming in exactly what is happening on these matters. . . particularly when the decision the may costs the taxpayers more money.

Fit Bottomed Girls

Jenn vs. the Sidewalk BY JENN

For this edition of Question of the Week, each FBG is recounting her most embarrassing moment when it comes to working out. Buckle up…these should be fun! I like to tell myself that my most embarrassing fitness moment isn’t exactly unique. That every runner trips—HARD—at one time or another during training. After all, when... Continue reading
 
More Than Just a Photograph . . .

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More Than Just A Photograph!

 














OTHER WRITERS DISCUSS . . .

Divider in Chief by Charles Krauthammer of the Washington Post

“The pundits like to slice and dice our country into red states and blue states.”

— Barack Obama, rising star, 2004 Democratic convention

Poor Solicitor General Donald Verrilli. Once again he’s been pilloried for fumbling a historic Supreme Court case. First shredded for his “train wreck” defense of Obamacare’s individual mandate, he is now blamed for the defenestration in oral argument of Obama’s challenge to the Arizona immigration law.

The law allows police to check the immigration status of someone stopped for other reasons. Verrilli claimed that constitutes an intrusion on the federal monopoly on immigration enforcement. He was pummeled. Why shouldn’t a state help the federal government enforce the law? “You can see it’s not selling very well,” said Justice Sonia Sotomayor. READ MORE

EDITOR'S NOTE: This week's Raytown Report is being published without editorial Comment. However, we do ask readers to pay special attention to that portion of The Paul Livius Report regarding Raytown SuperSplash (highlighted in bold type). We are interested in your take on the situation. Please participate in our Weekly Opinion Poll.

The Paul Livius Report BY PAUL LIVIUS

Board of Alderman Meeting - May 1, 2012

The Invocation was given by Kathy Wood of the Raytown Christian Church.

PROCLAMATIONS AND THANK YOU.

Mayor Bower proclaimed May as Older American Month.  

Then, Mayor Bower proclaimed May to Bike Month.

Then, Mayor Bower thanked out-going Mayor Protem Jim Aziere for his one year of service as Mayor Protem.

The Board has since elected Ward 5 Alderman Michael Lightfoot as its current Mayor Protem.

• Meredith Schultz told the Board she has worked at Super Splash for the last 12 years.  She does not believe the hiring of a management company is a good option.  She reminded the Board the management company they are looking at will only manage the life guards, not the concessions or front gate.

• Ann Johnson told the Board she has worked at Super Splash for 8 years.  She told the Board they have three experienced managers with a combined experience of over 30 years who are willing and able to step up and manage Super Splash.  She told the Board the life guards were not paid for the time they spend taking the certification classes.  Now, they are being told they will have to become recertified and not be paid for that time.

• Kathy Wood told the Board the Raytown Christian Church will again provide the Summer Lunch Ministry.  Last year, they served 500 lunches daily for six weeks.  They are looking for volunteers again this year.

Mahesh Sharma, the City Administrator told the Board there will be a Blood Drive at the EMS station from 3-6 pm on May 23.  For more information, call Kim at 816-737-6030. 

The ribbon cutting for the NSP3 homes at Laurel Avenue and 55th Street was held on Wednesday, May 2nd. Congressman Cleaver, Andy Papon from the Missouri Department of Economic Development, Tom Wood, Chair of Builders Development Corporation along with Mayor Bower all spoke. Approximately 30 people were in attendance at the ribbon cutting which included some neighbors who expressed their appreciation and excitement over having the two new homes constructed in their neighborhood.

Design plans for Phase 1 of the CBD Streetscape Project are being finalized. The design consultant along with city staff met with the Raytown Water Company on Friday, April 27th, to coordinate the project construction with planned water line improvements along 63rd Street. Both projects are planned to be bid in conjunction with each other to avoid construction conflicts.

The contractor Black & McDonald is scheduled to start the installation of energy efficient decorative street lights next week. There are 61 decorative street light fixtures that will be replaced with energy efficient LED decorative street light fixtures. The cost of purchasing and installing the energy efficient versions is paid for by a grant administered by MARC in which the city participates. The decorative fixtures are generally located at the gateways located within the city.

• The Board authorized the reappointment of Pat Law to the Council on Aging.

• The Board passed a resolution establishing the rates for medical and dental insurance for the insurance coming plan year. The resolution would reduce City participation in the single plan by 3% and then share the increase in premiums proportionately.  Mark Loughry told the Board the City currently covers 97% of the premiums for City employees.  This resolution will reduce the City participation to 94%.

• The Board passed a resolution accepting the donation of two Zoll Autopulse systems valued at $30,828.00 from Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation.

• The Board passed a resolution declaring vehicles to be surplus and authorized them to be disposed at auction. Andy Noll told the Board those vehicles are:
• 2008 Crown Victoria with 98,000 miles and 4,980 hours
• 2008 Crown Victoria with 97,000 miles and 4,700 hours.
• 2010 Crown Victoria with 79,000 miles and 4,300 hours. 
• 2006 Crown Victoria with 85,000 miles and 6,300 hours.
• 2010 Crown Victoria that was involved in an accident and was totaled.

The Board heard a resolution to approve the execution of a Super Splash USA management agreement with Midwest Pool Management of America, Ltd in an amount not to exceed $245,831.00.      

Kevin Boji told the Board Super Splash is scheduled to open May 26.  The pool lost money the last three years.  Alderman Creamer asked how Super Splash was supposed to open on time if they didn’t pass the resolution.  Alderman Aziere asked if the new management company plans to repair the underwater lights that haven’t worked for several years.  

Mr. Boji said they would not.  Alderman Aziere said the landscaping around Super Splash was very nice and asked if the new management company would maintain the landscaping.  Mr. Boji said the Parks Department would maintain the landscaping.  Alderman Aziere asked who would provide swim lessons and hire the life guards.  Mr. Boji said the management company would schedule swim lessons and hire the life guards.

Alderman White asked who would be responsible for the concessions and front gate.  Mr. Boji said the Parks Department would handle those.  Mr. Boji also told the Board the management company would decide what certification would be required of the life guards. 

Currently, this management company requires certification by Star Fish, not the Red Cross.  It will cost the city an extra $3,200 to recertify the life guards.  Alderman Van Buskirk asked if the staff will retain their current salaries, and was told there would be no reduction in wages. 

Alderman Melson asked Mr. Boji if the Board failed to pass the resolution, does the Park Board have a “Plan B”.  Mr. Boji told her if the resolution is not passed, the park may not open on time.  Mayor Bower told the Board that if this resolution is not what they want, they can delay the vote and hold a special meeting later. 

Alderman Hamilton asked if the Park Board will monitor the management company, and was told they would.  Alderman Creamer asked what 2011 revenues were. 

Mr. Boji said the park had $178,000 in revenue and lost $15,000.  Alderman Creamer asked Mr. Boji if the Board did not pass the resolution, how long would it take to hire another Aquatic Director.  Mr. Boji said they could not hire a new director with experience this late in the year.  Anyone with experience has already been hired by other parks. 

Mayor Bower said he was as not concerned with showing a profit at the park as he is with providing an excellent amenity in the Super Splash facility.  He wants it to be clean and safe for our kids to swim there.  We need to make sure we continue to provide this to the community.  Super Splash is such an asset and even if we break even with it, and if our citizens see it as a shining star, he’s fine with it.  The Board passed the resolution.

• The Board passed a resolution amending the 2011-2012 budget related to parks and recreation capital improvements at the BMX track in an amount not to exceed $25,000.00.  Kevin Boji told the Board this money would be used for capital improvements to the park in order to attract National BMX races.

The Board passed a resolution amending the legal description of the International House of Pancakes property.

Fit Bottomed Girls

Swivel Hips! BY ERIN
  

Workouts are back on, baby! Zumba started, so I am now getting my uncoordinated groove on and working up a sweat. I had such a good time in the first class, although no instructor can compete with the one FBG Jenn and I had in Lawrence, Kansas, where my love of Zumba began. I was slightly surprised at how hard it was to do 45 minutes of... Continue reading

OF COMMUNITY INTEREST

RAYTOWN EMS COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER DRIVE

Raytown EMS will be hosting the Community Blood Center’s Blood Drive at the EMS Station on May 23rd from 3:00 to 6:00pm. You may sign up either online at savealifenow.org and use raytownems as the password or contact Kim (737-6030) to schedule an appointment or for any questions. Walk-ins are also welcomed. All persons who attend the blood drive and attempt to donate blood will receive a voucher for "buy one get one free" ticket to Schlitterbahn Water Park.

Free Tai Chi Classes at Coleman Park

Friends of the Raytown Parks in conjunction with Raytown Parks and Recreation will be offering a free 5 week Tai Chi class on Thursday evenings at Colman Park, located at 59th and Lane Streets. The classes will begin this week on Thursday and run for five weeks. Participants are asked to meet at the flag pole monument located at the northwest corner of the park. READ MORE

What is Tai Chi?

The health effects include strengthening the body’s bone structure, toning the muscles, increasing cardiovascular circulation, and flushing the body’s lymphatic system of toxins. The movements can enhance the body’s blood circulation and metabolism. When practiced properly, Tai Chi Chuan can be an effective form of self-defense.

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More than just a picture . . .

Bits and Pieces . . .

• The Raytown Police Department collected over 100lb of unwanted prescription drugs at a public "drop off" location this past weekend. The event was sponsored by the Raytown Police in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). The unused and unwanted prescription drugs were collected to prevent theft and to keep them from disposed in the public water system.
• Ron Paul's supporters carried the day at the 5th District Republican Convention by capturing all of the delegate and alternate seats to the National Convention in Tampa. Paul completed the sweep when they also captured 52 delegate seats for the Missouri State Convention to be held in Springfield. Delegates are awarded on Congressional District level and the State level. Raytown is in the 5th Congressional District.
• While walking our dog, Wickett, last week, I noticed that the number of participants in the FREE Tai Chi classes at Coleman Park has doubled from the week before. Kind of interesting watching the participants slowly work through their moves. For more information see the article at the end of this week's Raytown Report. 
• The Raytown Ambulance Service is participating in an area blood drive. (see the article at the end of this week's Raytown Report). To encourage participation, those show give blood will receive a "buy one, get one free" coupon to Schlitterbahn Water Park. Caused me to wonder, why not offer a similar coupon to the local Raytown water park, Super Splash? Schlitterbahn Water Park is located way over in Kansas. Super Splash in is in our back yard.

Should Raytown Follow Kansas City’s Lead? BY GREG WALTERS

There has been a change in the way Kansas City is handling its problems.

They are being proactive.

You see this change in three significant pieces of legislation to come from the Kansas City Council in the last year.   

- A late night curfew on minors.  
- A city wide ordinance (with teeth!) banning illegal signage  
- A new ordinance addressing truancy in the Kansas City School District.

Raytown’s Board of Aldermen would be wise to follow Kansas City’s lead in these areas.

And, in fact, they already have. When Kansas City enacted a curfew ordinance last year the City of Raytown followed suit.

By doing so they accepted a reality of any large metropolitan area. The social ills of one community do not stop at a border. In fact, when one community cracks down on anti-social behavior, that behavior will, like water, take the path of least resistance, and move to where laws are not as tough or enforced efficiently.

This most recent change could have an impact on the City of Raytown. The Kansas City School District is a failed school district. At East, Northeast and Central High Schools the attendance rate is as low as 75%.

Those problems could impact the Raytown School District. In the Missouri Senate there has been discussion of dissolving the Kansas City School District and have it absorbed by surrounding Districts. The Raytown School District borders the Kansas City School District.

The Kansas City ordinance is a model of how legislation should be crafted. The original plan was to simply increase enforcement. Some members of the City Council objected on behalf of home school parents who feared their children would be unfairly targeted by police. A compromise was reached by which the Kansas City School District and the Kansas City Police Department would use attendance records to find truant students.

This compromise would fit well in Raytown, which has a large home school contingent within its borders. In fact, Our Lady of Lourdes Grade School, which was closed last year by the Diocese of Kansas City/St. Joseph, is now being used by home schoolers for educational purposes

The City of Raytown has a reputation for focusing on economic issues while turning a blind eye to social issues. Quality of life is more than a new retail store. How we solve our social issues goes to the root of what makes a city a desirable place to live.

Fit Bottomed Girls

How to Make The Perfect Salad BY JENN

Not to brag, but I can make a mean salad. Like a salad the size of your face. Or your small pet. A gloriously enormous salad that can be described no other way but as a “Big-Ass Salad.” And not in the sense that it makes your butt big—in fact, it does quite the opposite! But, boy, does it fill you up and, man oh man, does... Continue reading

OF COMMUNITY INTEREST

RAYTOWN EMS COMMUNITY BLOOD CENTER DRIVE

Raytown EMS will be hosting the Community Blood Center’s Blood Drive at the EMS Station on May 23rd from 3:00 to 6:00pm. You may sign up either online at savealifenow.org and use raytownems as the password or contact Kim (737-6030) to schedule an appointment or for any questions. Walk-ins are also welcomed. All persons who attend the blood drive and attempt to donate blood will receive a voucher for "buy one get one free" ticket to Schlitterbahn Water Park.

Free Tai Chi Classes at Coleman Park

Friends of the Raytown Parks in conjunction with Raytown Parks and Recreation will be offering a free 5 week Tai Chi class on Thursday evenings at Colman Park, located at 59th and Lane Streets. The classes will begin this week on Thursday and run for five weeks. Participants are asked to meet at the flag pole monument located at the northwest corner of the park. READ MORE

What is Tai Chi?

The health effects include strengthening the body’s bone structure, toning the muscles, increasing cardiovascular circulation, and flushing the body’s lymphatic system of toxins. The movements can enhance the body’s blood circulation and metabolism. When practiced properly, Tai Chi Chuan can be an effective form of self-defense.

Raytown Clean Up Days

Want to get rid of some of that junk that has been cluttering up your home and property? Then take advantage of Raytown Clean Up Days, May 5th, at Super Splash USA.

The City has waived dump fees for cars and pickup trucks. Last year the event was so popular that the hours had to be extended to accommodate all those waiting in line to get rid of their junk. So plan ahead, get in early and help make Raytown Clean Up Day a success.  

Use this link to learn more about Raytown Clean-Up Day  READ MORE

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-- BREAKING NEWS -- 

Police: Charges Unlikely Following Fight Involving Mayor’s Son

by Jason M. Vaughn of FOX 4 News

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Police say that charges are unlikely following a fight outside of a Brookside bar that left the son of Kansas City, Missouri, Mayor Sly James beaten and bloodied.

According to sources, Kyle James was allegedly drunk, belligerent and using gang signs around 3:00 a.m. on Friday morning near the Brooksider Bar. Witnesses say that James picked a fight with a man who was a self-described martial arts expert, who then took off his shirt and stood face-to-face with James before kicking him several times in the face and head. READ MORE

-- SPORTS --

Hey you sports fans, check out the following website to see how the Kansas City Royals did last night . . . www.didtheroyalswinlastnight.com

For those who have not been following the boys in blue, (or maybe just gave up!) the Royals broke their twelve game losing streak last night. Who says that 13 is an unlucky number!?!

OTHER WRITERS DISCUSS . . . 

Brutality of Servility By MAUREEN DOWD 

Maybe we gave up on John Edwards too soon.

His hair still looks great, even though he now gets cuts for $12.95, not $400.

And the man clearly has a gift for multitasking under pressure.

In the winter of 2007, as Edwards campaigned for the presidency in Iowa, he still found time to check up on his pregnant girlfriend, Rielle Hunter, who was on the lam with fall guy Andrew Young and his family, zooming around in private jets to luxe resorts and haciendas in Aspen, Santa Barbara and Florida. READ MORE

more here: http://www.kansascity.com/2012/04/25/3576203/jonah-goldberg-obamas-tainted.html#storylink=cpy

Read more here: http://www.kansascity.com/opinion/#storylink=cpy

 -- BREAKING NEWS --

FROM KMBC-TV 

Jackson County juvenile authorities said a 16-year-old boy has been charged with forcible sodomy and forcible rape in connection with a reported attack at Raytown Middle School.

According to the police report released last month, the girl was attacked on Feb. 27 during school hours and while classes were in session. Police said the girl told them she was walking from a counselor's office to a fifth-hour class when a boy approached her, started talking to her, pulled her into a storage room and attacked her.

The boy was removed from the school after the accusations came to light. The suspect, whose name is not being released because of his age, was taken into custody on Monday.

Authorities said he was being detained in the Jackson County Juvenile Detention Center and will be called to a hearing Wednesday to determine whether he will stay in custody. Authorities also said future hearings will determine whether the boy will be tried as an adult.

This Week's Poll Question

Last week the City Council in Kansas City passed into a law a city ordinance that sets fines for the illegal placement of signs on public right of way.

To kick off the new law, the City Council reached out to Kansas Citians in an effort to show some solidarity behind the law. The city distributed trash bags for people to use in clearing out the illegal signage.

The result was impressive.

Over 4,300 signs were gathered up by neighborhood volunteers.

The new city ordinance sets fines beginning at $20 and expanding them to $1,000 for repeat offenders.

This week’s poll question asks if Raytown should follow Kansas City’s lead.


More than just a photograph...
We received this photo (and many more)  from a regular reader last week. The title says it all. We will be sharing other images from this collection in the weeks to come. 

Greg Walters

Progress with a Price BY GREG WALTERS

Raytown has three news sources. You are reading one of them.

The other two publications can best be described as the Pollyanna News. They are pretty much the “unofficial” mouth piece of Raytown City Hall. They can be expected to tell half stories about progress.

For instance, a new restaurant will be opening up soon next door to the Aldi’s Grocery Store. It will have Mexican/American cuisine and is often touted as signs of continued progress in Raytown.

What is left out of the story is that the taxpayers are paying close to $200,000 in a loan to the developer of the property for that “progress”. It is the same type deal that was made to attract Aldi’s to Raytown. A deal that cost the taxpayers of Raytown $600,000.

One of those other news sources left out that part of its front page story entitled Raytown’s Still Growing.

Growth in Raytown is good.

But only telling half of the story about that growth is irresponsible and dishonest.

In the “Raytown’s Still Growing” story some very important facts were left out.

The new Mexican American Restaurant will be built next to Aldi’s on 350 Highway. So will a business called the The Game Stop. 

What is not told is that the city is underwriting the new commercial development with a $200,000 loan paid for by Raytown taxpayer’s dollars. It is similar to the $600,000 loan the city used to entice Aldi’s to open their store as well.

Some will say that is how business is conducted these days.

But that is not really the argument. The issue here is that ALL of Raytown’s news sources should report the entire story. Not just the fluff.

The Raytown City Council should be commended by voting to stand by its owns rules and requiring that HyVee build a sidewalk along a planned HyVee Gasoline/Convenience Store under consideration for the old Jeep Dealership on 350 Highway. (see the Paul Livius Report for more details)

One things for certain. Raytowners will not have trouble finding a place to buy gasoline on 350 Highway!

Paul Livius

The Paul Livius Report BY PAUL LIVIUS.

 

Raytown Board of Aldermen Meeting – April 17, 2012

Deanna Hayden, of the Southwood Church of the Nazarene gave the invocation.  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by the Scouts and Weblos of Troop and Pack 269, with the Blue Ridge United Methodist Church.

Police Chief Jim Lynch introduced Officer Larry Jackson and the City Clerk administered the Oath of Office.

Mayor Bower called the City Municipal Clerk to the podium and said Teresa Henry had been recognized by the State of Missouri for outstanding performance as Raytown’s City Municipal Clerk.  He thanked her on behalf of the City staff and the Board of Aldermen for all her hard work.

Mayor Bower opened the floor to public comments

• Shirley Whittman told the Board she was speaking on behalf of the property owners in Raytown.  She thought more than 50% of the property owners do not know they are responsible for sewer maintenance and repairs to the main sewer.  If the sewer main is on their own property, there was no problem.  If the sewer main is in the middle of the street, or on their neighbor’s property, the repairs could be very expensive.  She said she talked to Andy Noll twice.  Now she was coming to the Board.  She thinks this information should be on the monthly sewer bill.  She told the Board there is plenty of room for this information and it should be there.

Mayor Bower said the Street Scape open house was a great success.  It was well attended.  He also thanked the Scouts and Weblos for leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

Alderman Ertz told the Board that on April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Raytown Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  Bring your medications for disposal to the parking lots of Blue Ridge Plaza, 5210 Blue Ridge Boulevard, or Apple Market, Raytown Road and E. 350 Highway.  The service is free, anonymous, and no questions will be asked.

Under the Consent Agenda:

• Approved the reappointment of Todd Hembree to the Council on Aging.
• Approving the appointment of Shirley Wittman to the Council on Aging.
• Approving the reappointment of David Wurth to the city of Raytown Industrial Development Authority Board of Directors.
• Approving the reappointment of Raymond Guyett to the city of Raytown Industrial Development Authority Board of Directors.

During the Regular Agenda:

• The Board approved a resolution authorizing a one-time payment to non-elected fulltime city employees that have been employed for six months or longer in the amount of 1% of their base annual wage or $500.00, whichever is greater. The Board also approved the fiscal year 2011-2012 budget be amended to allow for this expenditure to be paid from un-appropriated cash balance in the general fund.
• The Board approved change order no. 1 to the agreement between the city of Raytown and William White & Sons Construction Company for the 2011 concrete repair project, accepting all work performed under said contract and authorizing final payment in the amount of $111,753.65.  Andy Noll told the Board there were two concrete contracts.  The first contractor got behind and this expenditure is for the second contractor.  Alderman Van Buskirk asked why the amount had double from what was budgeted.  Mr. Noll stated the reason was they didn’t anticipate the number of additional requests for change.  They put in more ADA ramps than had been budgeted.
• The Board granted a conditional use permit subject to certain conditions to operate a day care on property in the highway corridor commercial district on property located at 7218 Maple Avenue.
• The Board heard the second reading of an ordinance granting approval of the site plan for a convenience store on land located at 9401 East Highway 350 in accordance with the provisions of the comprehensive zoning regulations.  Alderman Creamer said the property owner had asked for a waiver on the property.  This would waive the installation of sidewalks on the property.  He was against the wavier because the sidewalk goes with the bike trail.  John Benson said the applicant asked for the wavier because of the 5% grade on the property and the owner would have to install handrails to comply with ADA regulations.  Alderman Aziere said the drawings show the convenience store will be close to Quik Trip.  He asked if it was wise to grant a permit for another convenience store so close to an existing one.  He asked about the logic of putting a coffee shop next door to Quik Trip.  John Benson told the Board Raytown doesn’t regulate land use.  It is up to the property owner to decide if he wants to compete with Quik Trip.  Alderman Van Buskirk moved to amend the resolution and grant the sidewalk waiver.  Alderman Perdue said he was against the waiver.  If the Board waived the sidewalks for this location, other property owners wanting to build would expect the same waiver.  Alderman Hamilton said he also was opposed to the wavier.  He told the Board they had set design standards for the 350 Corridor and those standards should be maintained.  Alderman White said she was against the waiver.  She said the city can’t encourage residents to use the bike trail without the sidewalk and it also creates a safety issue.  The Board voted down the motion to waive the installation of the sidewalks.  The Resolution, including the requirement for the installation of sidewalks, was passed by the Board.
• The Board approved a service agreement and a disconnect/reconnect sewer service agreement with Public Water District no. 2 of Jackson County, Missouri.

Fit Bottomed Girls

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A TRAIL RUN BY KRISTEN

I’m a firm believer in the fact that nobody knows their town the way runners do. Sure, if you cycle or drive around, you’ll get a good lay of the land, but as a runner, I get to take trails that cut through areas that you’d never even know were there. I run through parks, neighborhoods and city blocks. I run around golf courses and through my old college campus. I’ve lived in Gainesville, Fla., for 12 years, and I’m still constantly finding new places to run. READ MORE

OF COMMUNITY INTEREST . . .

Free Tai Chi Classes at Coleman Park

Friends of the Raytown Parks in conjunction with Raytown Parks and Recreation will be offering a free 5 week Tai Chi class on Thursday evenings at Colman Park, located at 59th and Lane Streets. The classes will begin this week on Thursday and run for five weeks. Participants are asked to meet at the flag pole monument located at the northwest corner of the park. READ MORE

What is Tai Chi?

The health effects include strengthening the body’s bone structure, toning the muscles, increasing cardiovascular circulation, and flushing the body’s lymphatic system of toxins. The movements can enhance the body’s blood circulation and metabolism. When practiced properly, Tai Chi Chuan can be an effective form of self-defense.

Raytown Clean Up Days

Want to get rid of some of that junk that has been cluttering up your home and property? Then take advantage of Raytown Clean Up Days, May 5th, at Super Splash USA.

The City has waived dump fees for cars and pickup trucks. Last year the event was so popular that the hours had to be extended to accommodate all those waiting in line to get rid of their junk. So plan ahead, get in early and help make Raytown Clean Up Day a success.  

Use this link to learn more about Raytown Clean-Up Day  READ MORE

Raytown Police Department Taking Back Unwanted Prescription Drugs BY D. HARPER
FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 816-875-656

Raytown, MO – On April 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Raytown Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs.  Bring your medications for disposal to the parking lots of Blue Ridge Plaza, 5210 Blue Ridge Boulevard, or Apple Market, Raytown Road and E. 350 Highway.  The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

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