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Ray County’s fire, police and sheriff’s officials warn without a unified plan, the county could be left scrambling when the next emergency hits. Commissioners recently invited local police, fire and sheriff’s office officials, along with city leaders, to discuss ways the county can better prepare for emergencies ranging from floods and tornadoes to chemical spills and mass casualty events.

The laughter, meals and fellowship that define the Eagleton Center in Richmond continue under new leadership, even as the memory of longtime director Pat Mills remains ever present in the building she helped shape.

MoDOT REPRESENTATIVES recently met with residents at the Orrick Community Center during an open house to discuss the proposed replacement of the Missouri Route Z bridge over Keeney Creek, located about one mile south of town. The existing bridge is safe for travel, but has reached the end of its service life. Attendees viewed structural inspection photos and preliminary detour maps, asked questions, and submitted comments. The open house included no formal presentation and those unable to attend may view project displays and provide feedback online through Sept. 9 at modot.org/ kansascity.

Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part series on the 2025 Hardin- Central All-School Reunion, highlighting the tributes, keynote address, after-party and the lasting meaning of the event. In next week’s edition, part two will look back at the history of the reunion, the planning process and the banquet’s opening program.