News

Editor’s note: This is the first of a two-part story about the nonprofit Bridge of Hope and its work supporting women and families facing unexpected pregnancies. Part One focuses on the organization’s mission, services and educational programs, while Part Two will explore its work addressing community health concerns, including testing and education related to sexually transmitted infections.

MIRANDA JAMISON City officials in Orrick approved two voluntary annexation ordinances Monday after a public hearing on a proposed battery energy storage facility, giving residents two weeks to submit a petition to send the decision to a citywide vote. The ordinances involve two separate properties, including land owned by Kathy O’Dell associated with a proposed battery energy storage system discussed during the hearing, as well as property owned by Jeff Gowing.

A Homestead Village alderman accused in a deadly neighborhood shooting will now be allowed limited trips outside his residence after the court modified the conditions of his bond. Glen Michael Stice, 55, is facing two felony charges, including first-degree murder and armed criminal action.

SOPHIA WATSON take advantage of drawing activities offered during Lewis Elementary’s Once Upon a Hero Literacy Night..

Residents looking for information about local health, family and community services will soon have the opportunity to connect with organizations from across the area during a Community Resource Fair hosted by the Thrive Excelsior Health and Wellness Task Force.

A proposed zoning amendment aimed at expanding short-term rental opportunities during major regional events failed to advance due to the lack of a second by the Excelsior Springs City Council to move the ordinance forward.

Mosby is pushing back against Excelsior Springs’ attempt to invalidate its annexation of land west of the city, arguing the motion rests on a mistaken claim about Clay County’s form of government. The lawsuit stems from competing annexation efforts approved by voters in Excelsior Springs and Mosby in November 2025 involving overlapping portions of unincorporated Clay County land west of Excelsior Springs, primarily along Cameron and Rhodus Roads.

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Instructional changes and expanded student support systems are beginning to show results at Excelsior Springs Middle School after what administrators describe as a year of significant change. Excelsior Springs Middle School Principal Anneliese Gould outlined those efforts during a recent presentation to the Excelsior Springs Board of Education, where she shared an overview of the building’s focus on strengthening instruction, improving accountability and building consistent systems for both students and staff during the 2025–26 school year.