Authorities have identified Curtis Lee Barton, a 40-year-old Arkansas man, as the primary suspect in a multi-state school burglary ring that hit 14 Missouri schools—including institutions in Cass and Bates Counties—and two in Iowa over the last three months. Barton, who was previously convicted for similar crimes in 2017 and 2018, was recently arrested and … Read more
ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. – In a controversial move, County Executive Sam Page has vetoed a bill intended to provide direct funding for small farm development in the region. The proposal, which had passed the county council, was designed to support local agricultural efforts and address food insecurity in underserved communities. However, Page rejected it, citing legal limitations around direct financial grants. Instead of … Read more
On May 2, 2025, Georgia-Pacific abruptly ceased operations at its Emporia, Virginia plywood plant, resulting in the immediate layoff of over 550 employees. The company cited declining demand in the plywood market, attributing it to a sluggish housing sector and affordability challenges. The plant, a significant employer in the region since the late 1960s, is scheduled … Read more
In a tragic continuation of events stemming from the April 9, 2024 gas explosion in Lexington, Missouri, a second lawsuit has now been filed—this time by neighbors whose home was severely damaged. The explosion claimed the life of 5-year-old Donovan Cunningham, severely injured his father Jacob Cunningham and sister Camille Lamb, and shook the surrounding … Read more
A tragic head-on collision on a two-lane highway in rural eastern Kansas has resulted in eight fatalities, including a high school student, a teacher-coach, and a school employee from Oklahoma. The crash also left one survivor hospitalized, authorities reported on Monday. Incident Details The devastating accident occurred around 5:45 p.m. on Sunday, along U.S. 169, … Read more
An 11-year-old boy was killed in a tragic shooting in St. Louis, Missouri, on Sunday evening, sending shockwaves through the local community and igniting further concern over escalating violence affecting children in the city. Incident Overview According to the St. Louis County Police Department (SLCPD), the fatal incident occurred shortly before 8:20 p.m. in the 1800 block of Longford Drive, a residential … Read more
In a recent survey conducted by Advance Funds Network, The Cozy Inn in Salina, Kansas, has been recognized as the state’s most “devotion-worthy” small business. This designation highlights establishments that customers are willing to travel significant distances to visit, underscoring the deep-rooted affection patrons have for this historic burger joint. A Century of Culinary Tradition … Read more
The City of Emporia has officially released details of its 2025 Street Rehabilitation Project, announcing a comprehensive plan to repair, resurface, and upgrade several key street segments. As part of its ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure and road safety, the city has targeted nine specific road sections for this year’s improvements. From sidewalk ramp installations to curb and gutter repairs, the project is focused on … Read more
Emporia, a town in Virginia, experienced a significant economic setback when the Georgia-Pacific plywood mill announced its closure, resulting in the loss of 550 jobs. This follows a similar blow last year when the Boar’s Head Provision Co. meat plant in nearby Jarratt, Greensville County, also shut down. Together, these closures highlight the struggles the … Read more
The city of Emporia, Kansas, is mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant, Ron Childers, who passed away at the age of 76 on April 29 at his rural Allen home. A man of resilience, commitment, and service, Childers leaves behind a rich legacy that shaped the city’s infrastructure and public service landscape for decades. A Career Marked by Service and … Read more