News

Lead on, cowboy.

A contested appointment to the Law Enforcement Restitution Fund (LERF) board sparked a tense and lengthy debate during a recent Ray County Commission meeting. Although residents urged commissioners to reconsider its decision, they ultimately moved forward with the appointment.

Ray County youth show off furry friends.

Supporters packed the sale barn during the 2025 Ray County Fair livestock auction, where dozens of youth exhibitors reaped the rewards of months of care and commitment to their animals. The auction generated a combined $88,353.

Young designers hit the runway.

Community backs youth with big bids.

Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed a wide-ranging education reform bill into law, setting in motion dozens of changes that will affect every public and charter school in the state starting with the 2025–26 academic year.

Missouri lawmakers have passed a new law that will significantly change how students use personal electronic devices in schools, and Richmond R-XVI School District is already working to meet the upcoming requirements.

An Excelsior Springs woman who tested positive for drugs was taken into custody during a court-ordered urinalysis at a scheduled hearing in her ongoing felony sex abuse case. Desiree A.

Editor’s note: This is the final of a two-part series about Ray County Drug Court. Last week’s edition explored the program’s history, structure and treatment philosophy. Part two highlights the reflections and recovery stories of the 38th graduating class.