News

Public comment stretched across two recent Ray County Commission meetings as standing room-only crowds pressed county leaders for answers about University of Missouri (MU) Extension funding and budget decisions.

Unregulated psychoactive substances sold in gas stations and convenience stores continue to raise concerns among local prevention leaders, who say the products remain easily accessible and largely unchecked. The issue was discussed during a Ray County Coalition meeting alongside updates on legislative efforts, jail-based prevention work and youth-focused strategies.

HARDIN-CENTRAL RECENTLY announced its courtwarming candidates for kindergarten and grades seventh through twelfth..

A Ray County resident called on county leaders to ban automated license plate reader cameras, arguing the technology is insecure, prone to abuse and incompatible with constitutional protections. The request came from Ray County resident Kirk Croy, who told commissioners the cameras, known as automated license plate readers and marketed under the name Flock, are being used by local law enforcement despite what he described as serious cybersecurity vulnerabilities and a lack of meaningful safeguards over how the data is collected, stored and shared.

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From rural beginnings to districtwide improvements, one local superintendent is being recognized for leadership reaching across classrooms, campuses and the community. Richmond School District Superintendent Dr.

With questions circulating in the community about the future of 4-H and other local programs, MU Extension officials are warning upcoming budget decisions could dramatically change what programs are available to Ray County residents.