Just as the leaves change in the fall, the season brings new beginnings and ends. Brian Rice and his team, for example, recently celebrated his departure from The Excelsior Springs Standard and the Richmond News. Rice told the people at his retirement party Oct. 12 at Hometown Pizza in Richmond that he’s had 32 years in the news industry and decided it’s finally time to spend more time with his family. He began his new career this week at the Excelsior Area Springs Chamber of Commerce as its president. “Congratulations on your new job, but we are going to miss you,” said Sharon Donat, the new general manager of both newspapers. Many showed up for Rice’s party, including current and past co-workers, friends and family. “Thank you, everybody,” Rice said during his speech. “I’ll tell you what, I couldn’t have asked for a better career and community to work in. I know each and every one of...