News

Shining a laser at an aircraft may seem harmless to some, but law enforcement is warning the act can blind pilots, endanger hundreds of lives and land offenders in federal prison. An act that may be intended as fun or a prank could impair an aircraft pilot’s vision and potentially cause an accident.

Corn whiskey has long been an American tradition and a vital part of Missouri’s economy. University of Missouri Extension researchers are working to help corn growers that provide locally sourced corn to distilleries for brewed corn whiskey.

Plans to expand day programs and services for people with developmental disabilities in Ray County took center stage as commissioners heard about a building project, which leaders say is urgently needed to meet demand.

An Excelsior Springs man has been granted a bond modification in two felony cases, allowing him to post 10% toward bonds, while facing dozens of harassment charges, a domestic assault charge and a probation violation.

Ray County 911’s longawaited building project took a major step forward this week with the successful sale of more than $8 million in bonds, a financial move officials noted exceeded expectations and positioned the agency well for the future.

The Richmond R-XVI Board of Education approved a tax levy and budget plan expected to generate more than $7.3 million in local property tax revenue for the 2025-26 school year, reflecting a $490,941 increase from the prior year.

Editor’s Note: This is the final of a two-part story on Orrick Superintendent Chris Russo, as he looks at Orrick’s strengths and challenges, shares his long-term vision for the district and ways his family has influenced his path in education.

Invoices for boarding inmates outside Ray County raised more questions than answers, prompting commissioners to call staff for clarification during their latest session. The records included charges from Harrison County, but commissioners noted the dates and totals did not align.