April 2026

Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part story highlighting Clay County Prosecutor Zach Thompson’s C.E.A.S.E. initiative and recent presentation on scams and financial exploitation. Part one examines common scam tactics and examples, while part two explores prevention, warning signs and response steps.

ALMOST A HAT TRICK Kinley Rogers was almost unbeatable in the throwing events at the Mineral Water Classic. Rogers, who’s set to graduate high school this month from Excelsior Springs, won the discus and shot put at the April 24 track and field meet at Tiger Stadium.

Thrive Excelsior is turning its focus to the next generation of community leaders with the launch of a new student leadership program centered on civic engagement and community connection. The Student Citizens Leadership Academy (CLA) is a free, two-day program for students ages 14 to 18 in Excelsior Springs, scheduled for June 16 and 17.

Excelsior Springs could receive up to $50,000 in state funding for law enforcement after city leaders approved a resolution supporting the Missouri Blue Shield program. The resolution was approved at a recent meeting as part of Missouri’s Blue Shield program, a statewide initiative recognizing communities demonstrating strong support for law enforcement and public safety.

Excelsior Springs’ boys tennis dual Monday with visiting Odessa gave the Tigers a chance to bid farewell to one of their own. The competition was likely the final home dual for senior Mitchell Blankenship, who has been with the high school program for three seasons and is set to graduate May 15.

Dear Editor, An all too common scam has arrived at the virtual doorsteps of the members of Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Excelsior Springs. In the scam, someone impersonating the pastor contacts church members asking them to purchase gift cards immediately and then send the gift card numbers and PINs to the pastor so that he can use them to help people who are in trouble. Instead of providing the pastor’s phone number, the scammers give their phone number so they gain access to the gift cards you have purchased.

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Residents will have two opportunities this month to learn practical ways to protect their health and connect with local resources through a pair of educational events. The events are part of Excelsior Springs Hospital’s (ESH) monthly Health and Wellness series, which offers free educational sessions designed to provide residents with practical, easyto- understand information while connecting them with local resources and support services.

Dozens of pairs of shoes and additional donations from the Excelsior Springs Rotary Club are helping support a regional effort to provide footwear for children in need around the world. The effort is part of the “Shoes for Orphan Souls” project, a partnership between Rotary District 6040 and Buckner International that has spanned 25 years.