August 4th brings a Missouri primary election to Clay County — and this one isn't about candidates.

Four constitutional amendments are on the ballot, each with the power to reshape how Missouri funds parks, governs counties, runs elections, and taxes its residents for years to come.

Amendment 1 asks voters to renew a one-tenth-of-one-percent sales tax that has kept state parks free for over four decades while supporting soil and water conservation statewide.

Amendment 2 would require Jackson County to elect rather than appoint its property assessor — a question the entire state will now decide.

Amendment 4 would add a new hurdle to citizen-initiated constitutional changes, requiring approval across every congressional district, not just a statewide majority.

The headliner is Amendment 5, which would gradually eliminate Missouri's individual income tax entirely — permanently — while expanding sales and use taxes to compensate.

Early voting opens July 21st, with absentee ballot requests due by July 22nd.

Families in Kearney are filled with anticipation as the new academic year approaches and students prepare to return to classrooms.

The Kearney School District has announced key dates to guide the start of the upcoming term.

Elementary students can visit their schools on a Thursday afternoon this month to meet teachers and locate classrooms.

Middle school families have similar open house opportunities that evening with extra sessions for incoming sixth graders.

Junior high and high school students will take part in tailored events including schedule pickups and orientations across several days.

These gatherings help reduce anxiety ahead of the first day of school confirmed for late August.

Parents must finish online registration for each child through the district portal.

Residents often see this period as both hectic and hopeful with shifting routines and new friendships ahead.

Community ties grow stronger through these events as everyone looks forward to a successful year of learning and growth.

Anticipation builds among families in Kearney Missouri ahead of the back to school fair.

This annual event delivers vital school supplies to students in need.

Leaders urge early sign ups to ensure smooth participation.

Last year brought a remarkable turnout that helped hundreds of students.

The fair takes place at the junior high facility on Pride Parkway.

Sessions run from afternoon into evening and again the next morning.

Families receive free clothing and educational resources.

Online pre registration simplifies the process for busy households.

The initiative connects families with supportive local groups.

Parents share gratitude for the relief during back to school season.

Children leave with smiles and the tools they need to succeed.

The event fosters unity and shared purpose across the town.

Recent growth makes these resources even more valuable.

Organizers expand offerings each year based on community feedback.

Neighbors spread the word so no one misses out.

Past stories highlight the fair's lasting impact.

This cherished tradition continues to support education for Kearney residents.

Kearney locals are getting ready for the Jim Bach Memorial Oktoberfest.

This beloved community event blends music, food, and family fun in a welcoming setting.

The Kearney Enrichment Council and the City of Kearney team up to honor local heritage while raising funds for parks and programs.

Live performances fill the air from morning until evening.

Adults enjoy craft beer options while children play in supervised areas.

Food trucks serve regional favorites and vendors showcase handmade goods.

Games keep the spirit of friendly competition alive all day.

Residents say the gathering strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories through neighborly support.

Excelsior Springs is abuzz as the BBQ Fly-In on the River returns, now elevated to a prestigious BBQ World Cup qualifier.

This exciting development is igniting fresh energy downtown, with residents and businesses preparing for record-breaking crowds.

The expanded Excelsior Springs BBQ Festival will see teams from across the country competing at the riverfront this August, promising an unforgettable summer weekend.

New restaurants and shops in the area are ready to welcome a surge of festival-goers, many eager to enjoy more than just great barbecue.

Families can look forward to live concerts, fireworks, vendor booths, and the popular Kid’s Que contest, while adults are drawn to the Home Brew Contest and the cherished Whiskey Walk.

Locals see this year’s event as a turning point for the city, blending vibrant celebration with a sense of lasting community growth.

Picasso, a spirited young female puppy, is now available for adoption at Liberty Animal Shelter in Liberty, Missouri — and she's already stealing hearts.

Curious, energetic, and endlessly charming, Picasso picks up new tricks quickly and is ready to find her perfect adventure partner.

Her adoption fee covers her spay procedure, first vaccinations, and a general de-wormer — though the Rabies vaccination is an additional cost for the adopting family.

Located at 2801 Riverview Road, Liberty Animal Shelter has long served as the region's most community-rooted option for pet adoption near Kearney.

Demand for puppies across the greater Kansas City metro remains strong, meaning Picasso likely won't be available for long.

The shelter welcomes visitors Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. — or submit an application online before your visit.