News

Richmond Middle School eighth graders recently participated in the school’s first Reality Fair, an interactive program designed to help students understand the financial decisions adults face when balancing income and everyday expenses. The program was held at the middle school and organized through a partnership with Community Bank of Missouri.

Ray County students will soon see expanded drug prevention education after each district received $20,000 to support programs such as Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.), as well as other awareness efforts aimed at helping young people avoid substance use. y County Commissioners approved the funding during a recent meeting, allocating opioid settlement funds to support drug awareness and prevention efforts in all four county school districts. The partnership provides $20,000 to each district for the current year, with the program scheduled for review in December 2026 to determine whether funding will continue into 2027. Commissioners noted the funding represents the first use of opioid settlement dollars received by Ray County, which had previously been held while commissioners considered where the funds could have the greatest impact on prevention efforts.

Weeks after a fire destroyed multiple structures at Sunshine Lake, Ray County officials and relief representatives met with residents at the Eagleton Center to discuss recovery needs, available assistance and the legal problems already hanging over the campground.

As Richmond prepares to celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, a new baking contest will give local residents a chance to showcase their favorite fruit pie recipes. The Richmond News will host the Slice of America Pie Contest during Richmond’s America 250 celebration on June 13.

Editor’s note: This is the first of a twopart story about the nonprofit Bridge of Hope and its work supporting women and families facing unexpected pregnancies. Part One focuses on the organization’s mission, services and educational programs, while Part Two will explore its work addressing community health concerns, including testing and education related to sexually transmitted infections.

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