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MIRANDA JAMISON Lead Reporter As Elaina Lamley stood on stage beside her staff, looking out over a crowd of uniformed deputies and their families, she mouthed a simple question to Sheriff Will Akin: “We’re the first?” Until that moment, she didn’t know her business, Alterations and Custom Sewing of Excelsior Springs, was the first-ever recipient of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Business Partner of the Year award. It was a defining moment during the recent Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Employee Recognition Banquet, where the department honored acts of lifesaving bravery, quiet dedication and outstanding community support during a night that left many in tears, applause and reflection.