Excelsior Springs continues to buzz with activity this October—from neighborhood block parties and fire prevention classes to fall festivals and downtown renovations. Here’s a roundup of the latest headlines you might’ve missed:
Job Corps Opens Doors for Community Tour
On Wednesday, October 16, Excelsior Springs Job Corps hosted an Open House, welcoming prospective students, community leaders, partners, and employers. Visitors toured the campus, experienced hands-on trade demonstrations, and learned more about the opportunities available for youth ages 16–24. The Center is actively enrolling students seeking trade certifications and/or high school diplomas, and they’re hiring, too!
Mayor’s Block Party Challenge Nears the Finish Line
Earlier this year, Mayor Mark Spohn issued a challenge to host 50 neighborhood block parties by Halloween and he’s just five short of the goal. With Excelsior Springs known as one of the neighborliest towns in Missouri, we’re betting he’ll make it! Highlights from this summer include successful events in King’s Edition and Golf Hill, where many neighbors met for the first time.
Wreck Slows Traffic Near Price Chopper
On Tuesday evening, October 21, a two-vehicle accident in front of Price Chopper caused major traffic delays. A red Chevy Malibu and a silver Honda SUV were involved, with the SUV landing on its side. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries. Big thanks to citizen contributors Sonya Morgan and James Baker for sharing photos in our Facebook Group, our favorite kind of roaming reporters!
Fire Safety Education Reaches All Elementary Students
This past week, the Excelsior Springs Fire Department wrapped up its annual Fire Prevention and Safety classes at all district elementary schools. Grade-level-appropriate training was provided through the National Fire Safety Council, funded by generous donations from local businesses and citizens. The department reports a reduction in juvenile fire-related injuries and property loss, proof that prevention works.
El Maguey’s New Tabletops Showcase Local Businesses
If you’ve eaten at El Maguey recently, you may have noticed a colorful upgrade, new tabletops featuring ads from local businesses, including the Excelsior Citizen! It’s a fun way to spotlight area entrepreneurs while you enjoy tacos with friends.
Restoration Work Moves Forward at The Colonial
Downtown’s historic Colonial building on East Broadway is seeing fresh updates, thanks to Susan Blaser, also owner of Casa Di Vite. As a recipient of the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant, the building’s porch railings have been restored, offering a peek at what’s to come. Much of the additional work will continue inside the structure.
Fall Festivities in Full Swing—But One Favorite Shifts Dates
Fall festivals and Halloween events are happening all across town, but some changes are stirring up conversation. The popular Bill Payne Party, traditionally held on Halloween, was moved to avoid conflicting with Bingo Night. While some longtime attendees expressed disappointment, excitement is already building for next year’s 100th Anniversary celebration, promising something big from the American Legion.
If you appreciate the value our local journalism brings to the community, please consider making a recurring contribution to the Excelsior Citizen!
