News

Women share encouragement

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As part of the Women in Business and Leadership Luncheon hosted by the Richmond News and Excelsior Springs Standard, attendees were invited to share personal advice, encouragement and reflections for other women in the community. The following messages were submitted: “Take the high road and hope others will meet you there.” ~ Shannon Gordon “Your life, job and passion affect the community in many ways you may not realize. Make every impact count.” ~ Claire Wille “Give yourself grace. You’re doing the best you can.” ~ Mackenna Caldwell “Don’t be afraid of growing old. Be glad you have the chance.” ~ Maggie Presson “Never take a day for granted. Count your blessings each and every day.” ~ Brenda Hamm “Follow your dreams no matter what the obstacles are. No matter the chatter, keep going. No rearview mirrors.” ~ Keesha Johnson “Kill them with kindness. Give love to your enemies instead of anger.” ~ Cathy Gottsch “ Stacy Hisle, you’ve taught me that through community partnership, we can both grow and reach greater heights. You are my treasure.” ~ Suzan Breen “You cannot pour from an empty cup. Take time for yourself and everything else will work out. If it doesn’t, it’s not the end.” ~ Tabbie Arnold “Choose a career or profession you enjoy. Be yourself.” ~ Karen Payne “Always give your problems to God and let Him have the wheel. Don’t let anyone doubt your view of your worth. God does not make junk. Don’t let the little things eat you up.” ~ Shannon D. Morris “Acknowledge the strong women in your sphere. Remind them periodically of their impact on you and others. Show them appreciation, not only tell them.” ~ Katie Jones “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but the moments that take your breath away.” ~ Brenda Hamm
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Confederate Memorial Day, Saturday, June 13, 2026, Higginsville, MO

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The Confederate Memorial Friends Association, along with the Confederate State Historic Site in Higginsville, MO, is sponsoring the annual Confederate Memorial Day on Saturday, June 13. The observance will be held on the lawn of the Confederate Chapel, located on the grounds of the Confederate Memorial State Park, one mile north of Higginsville.
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County approves bridge, courthouse projects

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Ray County commissioners approved several project documents and administrative forms during recent meetings, including the following: Henrietta overpass bridge — Commissioners signed a letter to Norfolk Southern requesting a preliminary engineering agreement for the proposed removal of the existing Lexington Road Bridge in Henrietta. The bridge carries Lexington Road over Norfolk Southern railroad facilities at milepost 235.43. Ray County intends to permanently remove the bridge and close the approach roadway. The proposed project includes the removal of the existing 12-span bridge over Norfolk Southern facilities, BNSF facilities, East Second Street and East First Street, as well as the removal of substructure elements adjacent to Norfolk Southern facilities two feet below the existing grade.
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County response to audit recommendations questioned

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A recently released Missouri State Auditor follow-up report prompted questions about Ray County’s progress in addressing recommendations from a 2023 audit. Resident Kurt Croix questioned commissioners during a recent meeting about findings contained in the report, including recommendations regarding Sunshine Law compliance and closed meetings.