News

National Celebrate Shelter Pets Day passed Dec. 4, but one organization continues to amplify its message about the connection between adopted animals and mental health.

The Little Red Truck donation boxes returned to storefronts in Richmond and Excelsior Springs last month as residents filled them with food for families preparing for Thanksgiving. What began as a small effort seven years ago has grown into a shared tradition across both towns, with local businesses hosting the turkey-themed boxes and community members stepping in to support their neighbors.

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Allegations of child sexual abuse against a church youth pastor took a significant turn after his bond request was denied. Excelsior Springs resident Donald Aaron Axtell, 37, is charged with two felonies, including second-degree statutory rape and possession of child pornography.

When a tractor-trailer collided with a police patrol vehicle on Missouri 210 Highway in October, the impact left Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Corporal Zach Thomas unconscious and trapped behind the wheel as motorists began pulling over. One of those who approached was Wood Heights Fire Protection District Chief T.J. Curry. His actions led the Missouri State Highway Patrol to nominate him for the Honorary Trooper Certificate, which he was recently awarded.

Clay County’s growing population helped drive the development of the county’s first major law enforcement construction project in 25 years. The Law Enforcement Resource Center opened Nov. 25 to provide space for firearms training, defensive tactics and scenario-based instruction.

What began as a plan for the Wood Heights district to quietly support another Thanksgiving assistance effort turned into a full holiday project for the town’s Fire Protection District Auxiliary. A misunderstanding over the needs of a school district for its holiday outreach left the Auxiliary with purchased food and an unexpected opening to serve families directly. Members moved quickly to turn those items into complete meals for people who needed holiday support.

As Excelsior Springs students move into the final weeks of the semester, elementary buildings across the district are focusing on attendance, academic progress and a smooth transition into the winter season. Schools are closing out quarter two with assessments, family events and recognition of students who have demonstrated strong character and responsibility.

The Excelsior Springs Police Department has identified the vehicle involved in a recent fatal hit-and-run. Detectives said identifying the vehicle that killed 35-year-old Mary Levingston was a development made possible through a combination of advanced technology, interagency teamwork and assistance from residents who shared camera footage from the area.

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