June 2025

MIRANDA JAMISON Excelsior Springs is doubling down on community connection, encouraging residents to step outside, meet their neighbors and take pride in where they live through a growing lineup of citysupported initiatives. From the Mayor’s Block Party Challenge to curb appeal contests and a first responder celebration, city leaders are calling on residents to get involved, build relationships and help shape a more vibrant, welcoming community.

As a dangerous heat wave approaches Missouri, Ameren is urging customers to act now with simple, practical steps that can help reduce energy costs and keep homes safe and comfortable. Meteorologists are predicting extreme temperatures in the coming weeks, prompting Ameren to share strategies for managing higher electricity use without compromising comfort or safety.

I’ve got soccer on the brain again, thanks in part to a recent assignment. As you might recall, I covered a soccer camp in late May at Tiger Stadium.

Elton Mansell The Excelsior Standard, June 20, 2025 Elton Mansell, 73, of Pleasant Valley passed away peacefully with family by his side on June 16, 2025. Elton was born July 20, 1951, to Elmo and Rosemary (Stanton) Mansell, and graduated from Orrick High School in 1969.

Wyatt Speakman The Excelsior Standard, June 20, 2025 Wyatt Christopher Speakman, age 15, of Excelsior Springs, MO, died June 14, 2025 in an automobile accident near Mahaska, KS. Visitation with family present will be Friday, June 20, from 4-8 p.m.

Allen Hunt The Excelsior Standard, June 20, 2025 Allen Lynn Hunt, 73, passed away June 15th, 2025, at North Care Hospice House. He was born August 1, 1951, in Excelsior Springs to Lynn and Rosalie Hunt.

Joseph Holmes The Excelsior Standard, June 20, 2025 Joseph “Joe” W. Holmes 79, Blue Rapids, KS, died June 10, 2025, at Blue Valley Health and Rehabilitation, Blue Rapids, KS A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, June 18, at United Presbyterian Church in Blue Rapids, KS.

I used to think the definition of a small town was simple: it was all about population. Growing up in Excelsior Springs, it felt obvious.

At a time when rural hospitals are shutting down nationwide, Excelsior Springs Hospital (ESH) is pushing forward with expanded behavioral health care, increased meal access, new partnerships and a culture rooted in resilience.

Despite a projected $2.4 million budget deficit for the upcoming school year, the Excelsior Springs School District expects to continue operating without major changes to staffing or programs. District officials plan to offset the shortfall using reserve funds, though they noted that if expenses continue to exceed revenue, more difficult decisions may be necessary within the next two to three years.