As summer draws closer to an end, many people begin to experience the dreaded itchy eyes and runny nose that comes along with blooming ragweed, reports the state conservation department. “While this irritating plant earns every bit of its reputation for being the leading cause of late-season hay fever, another plant often takes the blame for these sneezy symptoms, states a release from the Missouri Department of Conservation.
From now through Sept. 2, which includes the Labor Day holiday weekend, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for Region 7, which includes Missouri, will be working alongside local law enforcement for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign.
KEARNEY — School district staff and families starting returning to school buildings last week to kick off the 2024-25 school year with convocation and open houses. The events occur before the first day of school, which this year was Tuesday, Aug. 20.
CLAY COUNTY — The Northland Shepherd’s Center, 5601 NE Antioch Road, is located in an area with low-income households that experience food insecurity. According to the charity, food insecurity affects more than 3,000 older adults and that number is expected to grow in the years to come.
KEARNEY — The Bulldogs’ high school vocal jazz ensemble, Frequency, garnered a coveted invitation to perform at the 87th Annual Missouri Music Educators Association Conference. Selection for the MMEA’s annual conference is the vocal music equivalent of winning a state title, according to choir Director Dustin McKinney.
CLAY COUNTY — Investigators have uncovered more explosive devices, guns and ammunition after three were arrested earlier this month and face felony charges in connection with a drug trafficking operation.
SMITHVILLE — The city of Smithville has vacancies on two volunteer citizen committees: economic development and parks and recreation. As with most cities, volunteer citizen commissions and committees are seen as an integral part of local government.
The Missouri Department of Transportation is inviting the public to join the discussion on priority unfunded transportation needs in their areas. Missouri’s transportation system includes 33,811 miles of roads and 10,392 bridges and culverts, making it one of the largest of any state in the nation.
SMITHVILLE — Under third-year coach Dave Tyner, Smithville volleyball is set to enter a new season and looking to do so with a nearly entirely new lineup. After winning the KC Suburban Blue Conference last fall, the Warriors will try to defend their title after losing seven starters to graduation.