(Left to right: 1st runner-up, Madelyn Bruning; Halloween Queen, Ainsley Smith and Miss Congeniality, Savannah Stallbaumer (Photo Credit: Greg Bebermeyer/MSC News)

(KNZA)--The 2019 Hiawatha Halloween Queen was crowned Thursday evening prior to the grand parade, which concluded the 105th annual Halloween Frolic.

Selected for the honor was Miss Sabetha: Ainsley Smith.

As the winner, Smith, a senior at Sabetha High School, will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

The 1st runner-up and winner of a $500 scholarship was Miss Everest: Madelyn Bruning, a senior at Horton High School.

Miss Wetmore: Savannah Stallbaumer, a senior at Wetmore High School, was named Miss Congeniality and will receive a $250 scholarship.

8 area girls competed in this year's scholarship contest.

The girls were judged on an essay, talent and judge's interview along with leadership, community involvement and scholastic achievements.

(KLZA)-- In a secret ballot, Pawnee City Council members voted 2-1 against Mayor Deb Klein's recommendation to fill the vacant City Council seat Monday evening. 

The Mayor recommended Donnie Fisher be appointed to fill the vacancy.  Fisher previously served an unexpired term on the Council from June 2018 to November 2018 and then lost as a write-in candidate for a Council position. 

Mayor Klein asked those voting against the recommendation to explain why but there was no comment from the Council members.  

The next Council meeting will be November 12.  The Mayor could make a new recommendation at that time.  The next election is coming up in May, 2020.

(KNZA)--A Thursday morning rear-end collision on U.S. 75 Highway in Shawnee County sent a Circleville man to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports 21-year-old Bailey Williams was southbound behind a SUV when the vehicle pulled onto the shoulder to slow for a crash in front and his car rear-ended the SUV.

Williams was transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital with suspected minor injury.

The driver of the SUV, 65-year-old Hoyt resident Gary Thiessen, was not hurt.

The Patrol says both drivers were buckled up when the wreck happened shortly after 7:00 Thursday morning, north of Topeka at NW 46th Street.

Law enforcement officials reported icy road conditions at the time.

(KAIR)--A 14-year-old Weston, Missouri boy is dead after being struck by a vehicle in Platte County.

According to a news release issued by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office, Gage Fogt was walking on Missouri Highway 45 at Grass Pad Road, in Unincorporated Platte County, shortly before 6:45 Wednesday evening. That’s when he was struck and killed by a Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck that was northbound on the highway.

Fogt was identified at the scene by family members who were present at the time of the fatal accident.

According to the news release, the investigation is ongoing, conducted by the Platte County Sheriff’s Office Crash Team.

Alcohol is not believed to have been a factor.

The name of the driver has not been made public.

KLZA-- The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles would like to warn residents about scam phone calls from individuals claiming to work for the DMV. The department has received reports of such calls where the individual claims the DMV will recall or “cut off” the customer’s driver license, unless immediate payment is made.

The DMV will never call our residents to demand payment, while threatening to recall a person’s license. Communication with our customers regarding their driver license will always be initiated by mail. 

Should you have any concerns about whether a phone call you are receiving is legitimate, do not provide any personal information. Instead, hang up and call the DMV directly. If the call is legitimate, the DMV team member will have no objection.

If you believe you have fallen victim to this, or any other scam, please contact local law enforcement immediately for further advice.

Contact information for the DMV, along with a range of online services, can be found on at dmv.nebraska.gov
 

(KAIR)--An investigation is underway into an Atchison County theft valued at several thousand dollars.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, Eldon Roles, on Monday, reported the theft of various tools from his business, located at 119 Riverfront Road.
Missing are an impact drill, a reciprocating saw, hammer drills, a steering wheel pull, harmonic balancer puller, light testers, drill bit sets, socket sets, a chainsaw, and miscellaneous tools.

The total loss is estimated at $4,000.

In August, Roles reported the theft of vehicle parts, estimated at $700.

According to Laurie, there is not any indication that the crimes are connected, but the investigation is continuing.

Anyone with information pertaining to the theft should contact the Sheriff’s Office at 913-804-6080.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is facing multiple charges following his arrest Tuesday.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 40-year-old Jammie Reynolds was arrested following a complaint regarding the theft of services in the 1400 block of Pacific Avenue.

According to Wilson, officers investigated the complaint, with Reynolds identified as the person who had unlawfully obtained electrical service from a neighbor through the use of an extension cord.
Officers located Reynolds in the 800 block of King Street, where he was taken into custody for the theft of services, and issued a notice to appear. However, it’s alleged that he was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, leading to his arrest on related charges.

Following his arrest, Reynolds was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

His bond is set at $10,000.

(KAIR)--The man found dead inside of a bag, laying along a road in St. Joseph, Missouri, was a former resident of Doniphan County.

That’s according to the obituary for 39-year-old Travis Whetstine.

According to the funeral notice from the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Highland, Whetstine, of St. Joseph, formerly lived in Wathena.

His body was discovered October 23 in the 200 block of St. Joseph’s Chellew Road.

KQ2-TV reports Whetstine’s body was found inside a bag that police described as being made of tarp-like material.

Whetstine’s death is being investigated as suspicious.

Among his survivors are his wife, Misty and three children. His mother, Theresa Ann Hessemyer and his father, William Brian Whetstine, both of Troy, also survive.

Funeral services will be Friday afternoon at the Community of Christ Church in Fanning.

(KNZA)--Jury trials have been set for a Willis man in two separate cases.

20-year-old Anthony Lay pleaded not guily Monday in Brown County District Court to a charge of rape.

A jury trial was set for February 11.

He was charged in January following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department.

In the second case, Lay pleaded not guilty to a felony count of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, three misdemeanor counts and two traffic infractions stemming from a high speed chase on December 28, 2018 in Brown County.

A jury trial in that case was set for January 9.

Lay also faces charges in a third case stemming from the theft of tires and rims from Armstrong Tire, in rural Muscotah,

A preliminary hearing in that case is set for November 13.

Lay remains in the Brown County Jail, held on total bond of $115,000.

(KAIR)--The death of an inmate at the Lansing Correctional Facility is under investigation.

The Kansas Department of Corrections, in a news release, said 48-year-old Raymond Davis was pronounced dead by a facility doctor around 3:00 Monday afternoon. His cause of death is pending.

The release says the Kansas Bureau of Investigation will investigate his death, which is standard when an inmate dies in prison.

Davis was serving more than 53 years ( 646 months)  for convictions in Wyandotte County for aggravated assault, aggravated kidnapping and aggravated robbery.

(MSC News)--Four local counties are among 27 Kansas counties that will receive a combined total of $5 million under the Kansas Department of Transportation's Local Bridge Improvement Program.

KDOT, in a news release Monday, said the bridge program was re-instated this summer to assist cities and counties by providing up to $150,000 toward the replacement or rehabilitation of a bridge on the local roadway system.

Locally, Atchison, Doniphan, Marshall and Pottawatomie Counties were selected for funding. Doniphan, Marshall and Pottawatomie will also each receive an additional $50,000 for choosing to close a second deficient bridge.

KDOT said requests for funding outpaced available funds by nearly three times. The release said a total of 86 applications from 70 public agencies were received with requests for $14.2 million in funds. Some agencies submitted more than one application for the program.

The program targets bridges that are 20 to 50 feet in length, with a daily vehicle count of less than 100.

There are about 19,000 bridges on Kansas' local road system. KDOT said about 20 percent—or 3,800—of those bridges are in poor condition—or unable to meet today's weight and vehicle requirements.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha woman facing a pair of aggravated battery charges has been placed on probation.

Teaini Simmons was sentenced Monday in Brown County District Court to 12 months in prison on each count, which were ordered to be served consecutively.

The sentence was then suspended and she was placed on 24 months supervised probation.

Simmons pleaded no contest in August to the amended charges.

She had originally been charged with rape and aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Simmons was arrested in May of last year following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department.

The investigation was launched after the department received a report from a concerned citizen that Simmons was romantically involved with a child under the age of 14.

(KLZA)-- A doctor serving Community Hospital in Fairfax, Missouri is leaving. 

Dr. Lindsay Williams has tendered her resignation, effective November 29. 

Dr. Williams has worked at the hospital since 2016 and served at both the Mound City and South Holt Clinic locations. 

Dr. Williams will be moving to Kansas City with her husband.  
 

(KAIR)--Five more candidates filed for election to the three open seats on the Atchison City Commission prior to Monday’s noon hour deadline.

Abby Bartlett, Lisa Moody, William Murphy, and incumbent Charles Perdue all filed Monday. Incumbent David Hausmann filed Friday.

Incumbent David Butler did not file to seek election to the seat he was appointed to in 2017.

J. David Faris and Luke Jesnowki previously filed for election to the Commission.

Justin O’Brien filed Monday to seek the role of Effingham Mayor, a role currently held by James Potts, who did not file for reelection. Five filed previously to seek election to the Effingham City Council, including incumbents Kirk Wohlgemuth, David Lowe, and Mark Hurst, as well as Harvey Fasse and Ross Montgomery.

Jaquetta Peak will run unopposed to retain the seat of Huron Mayor.

Filing Monday to seek reelection to the Muscotah City Council were Susan Higley, Darryl Hundley, and Margaret Jacobs.

Incumbents Dale Small and Dalia Wilson filed earlier.

Josh Wheeler filed Monday to seek one of the three open seats on Atchison’s USD 409, while incumbent Herb Gwaltney filed earlier, as did Sally Berger, John Bishop, Stefanie Gardner, and Pamela Rizza.

Incumbents Bill Shipley and Rick Zumbrunn did not file to seek reelection.

James Cormode filed Monday to seek the At-Large position on the USD 377 Board of Education. Incumbents previously filed for reelection to the school board, with Nancy Keith seeking position 3, Greg Smith filing for position 2, and Barbara Chapman filing to retain position 1 on the board. Keith currently serves in the At-Large position, and fills the role of School Board President. Chapman is Vice-President.

The Board of Education has four seats open for election.

Atchison County Clerk Michelle Phillips told MSC News that based on the number of candidates filing for open positions, a Primary Election is not needed in Atchison County.

(KNZA)--Saturday's Drug Take Back event at the Brown County Sheriff's Office was a success.

Sheriff John Merchant says close to 250 pounds of unused, unwanted or expired medications were turned in for disposal.

The National Drug Take Back Day is coordinated by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, which collects and safely destroys the medications.

Merchant reminds residents that the Sheriff's Office accepts unused medications year round.

(KNZA)--An interim chief of police has been appointed for the Doniphan County Community of Wathena.

The Wathena City Council at their October 21 meeting approved Mayor John Cluck's appointment of Officer Scott Hirtler to the position.

Hirtler began serving in the role Saturday.  He will serve in the interim position until a new chief of police is hired.

Hirtler was hired as an officer with the Wathena Police Department several weeks ago and previously worked for the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department for 6 ½ years.

The Council at their October 21 meeting officially accepted the resignation of Chief of Police Jared Ratzlaff, who had held the position since May 2018.

Ratzlaff, who has been in law enforcement since 2004, is joining the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department.

Editors note: the following release was submitted by the Hiawatha Police Department

(KNZA)--Beginning October 28 through November 1, The Hiawatha Police Department will join other Kansas Law Enforcement Agencies to stop what has been likened to an epidemic in Kansas.

In 2016, 44 children ages 0-19 lost their lives due to car crashes in Kansas. Sadly, almost half of those children were not wearing their seat belts.

“In the health field, they talk about making sure children have received their immunizations to prevent deadly diseases,” said Chief John Defore. “But what many parents don’t think about is that wearing a seatbelt properly is the best prevention of serious injury or death in a vehicle.”

According to the 2017 Kansas observational seatbelt survey, children are much more likely to be buckled up if the driver is wearing their seatbelt. If the driver is buckled, about 98% of the children are restrained. If the driver is not buckled, only about 29% of the observed children were buckled. We want adults to model good driving behaviors for children.

Starting on October 28 through November 1, law enforcement across Kansas will be extra-vigilant when patrolling around schools. For more than 20 years, officers have educated and warned drivers and passengers regarding the importance of using seatbelts while in their vehicle.

There should be no surprises when it comes to this enforcement effort. Officers will issue citations to anyone who does not obey Kansas law.

Chief Defore says, “Even one child’s death is unacceptable. Please slow down, especially in school zones, eliminate the distractions, and always buckle up.”

For the latest data and to see more about Kansas safety belt laws, go to: www.ktsro.org

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Sheriff's Department is investigating the theft of a pickup truck from north of Sabetha.

The Sheriff's Office reports a 2017 Ford F-250 four door with a long bed was stolen sometime between 11:00 Friday night and 10:30 Saturday morning from 2754 X Road.

The truck, which is white in color, has Ag Partners logos and damage to the driver's side rear tailgate.

The total loss of the truck and property inside the truck is estimated at nearly $49,000.

Anyone with information on the theft is urged to contact the Nemaha County Sheriff's Department at 785-336-2311.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff’s Office will hold its 12th annual Trick-or-Treat night Wednesday evening ( October 30).

According to a news release, the event will start at 5:00 in the lobby of the sheriff’s office located at 709 Utah Street in Hiawatha.

The theme this year is “ WONDERPARK.”

The release says some of the staff will be dressed in kid friendly costumes. They will be handing out treat bags with safety information, glow sticks, mood cups, candy and more.

The release says the event provides the sheriff’s office a better opportunity to interact with kids and families in a positive way.

Tuesday and Wednesday evening’s have been designed at Trick-or-Treat nights in Hiawatha.

Residents who want to take part are encouraged to turn on their front porch light.

The 105th Halloween Frolic is set Thursday in Hiawatha. It will include an afternoon parade at 3:00 and grand parade at 7:00 that evening.

The crowning of the Hiawatha Halloween queen will take place at 6:00 on the north side of the courthouse square prior to the grand parade. Eight area girls are vying this year for the honor.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant offered these Halloween safety tips:

*LOOK BOTH WAYS BEFORE CROSSING THE STREET
*STAY IN WELL LIT AREAS
*DO NOT TRICK-OR-TREAT ALONE, ALWAYS GO WITH PARENTS, FRIENDS OR FAMILY
*NEVER GET IN  A STRANGE VEHICLE OR A HOME YOU ARE NOT FAMILIAR WITH
*WEAR LIGHT COLORED OR REFLECTIVE COSTUMES, REFLECTIVE TAPE ADDED TO A
COSTUME HELPS ILLUMINATE YOU AT NIGHT
*MAKE SURE YOU CAN SEE PROPERLY OUT OF YOUR MASK/COSTUME
*MAKE SURE TO HAVE A FLASHLIGHT WITH YOU
*ONLY TRICK-OR-TREAT AT HOMES WITH PORCH LIGHTS ON AND PLACES YOU ARE
FAMILIAR WITH
*YOUNGER CHILDREN SHOULD ALWAYS BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT
*LET YOUR PARENTS OR CAREGIVERS INSPECT YOUR CANDY BEFORE EATING
 

(KNZA)--An Atchison man was injured Saturday evening when the 4-wheeler he was operating overturned on a Doniphan County road.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the accident happened at the intersection of 250th and 255th Roads, about 4 miles northeast of Highland.

The Patrol reports 51-year-old Christopher Henthorne was westbound on 250th Road when he attempted to turn north onto 255th Road. The Patrol says due to speed and loose gravel his Arctic Cat 4-wheeler overturned.

Henthorne was transported to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with suspected serious injury.

The Patrol says he was not wearing a helmet or eye protection when the crash occurred around 6:30 Saturday evening.

(KAIR)--A seven-month renovation project comes to a close, with an an open house now planned to allow the public a first hand look at the expansion of the Atchison Police Department.

Assistant Atchison City Manager, Justin Pregont, during the October 21 meeting of the City Commission, invited the Commissioners to take part in the event. “Exciting news coming out of the Police Department,” Pregont said. “Our renovation project down there is coming to an end. November 1st, from noon until three, there will be an open house downstairs. I believe the Chamber’s going to do a ribbon cutting about 12:15.”

According to a news release from the City, the $1.13 million project includes new office and squad space, a new evidence room, a secure garage space for investigations and vehicle searches, locker rooms, a new customer service window, a new conference room and an overall more secure department.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in September of last year, told MSC News that along with those enhancements, the key reason for the expansion was due to state statute. “ There is a new Kansas statute that says certain interviews done by police must be recorded. We've always lacked the proper space for interview rooms, but specially for proper recording that needs to be done.”

Atchison City Manager Becky Berger, in the news release, said approval of the expansion was unanimously approved by the Commission, which made it a priority.

The majority of the project was funded from General Obligation Bonds sold in May.

The public is invited to the November 1 open house, from 12 noon until 3:00.

Refreshments will be served and guided tours of the department, located at 515 Kansas Avenue, will be provided.

(KAIR)--Details are released regarding a fatal Leavenworth County crash that happened last week.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports that 21-year-old Jawuan Smoot, of Lawrence was killed in the wreck that occurred Thursday afternoon in Tonganoxie.

He was the driver of a Kia Soul, westbound on U.S. Highway 24, that was struck by an eastbound Ford F250, that crossed the center line.

The driver of the truck, 22-year-old Hunter Ford, of Tonganoxie, suffered only a suspected minor injury.

He was not buckled up, but Smoot was wearing a seatbelt when the wreck happened shortly after 3:00.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man pleads guilty to fracturing the skull of a 3-month old child.

According to a news release issued by Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 23-year-old Robert Green entered a guilty plea Friday in Leavenworth County District Court.

He plead to two counts of aggravated battery on a child.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 6.

According to Thompson, the child’s mother brought the child to Cushing Hospital on September 5 last year, where doctor’s found that the child was suffering from a skull fracture.

Transported to Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, it was discovered that the 3-month-old suffered 24 definite fractures and seven likely fractures, all believed to be the result of physical abuse.

Green, when interviewed by police, initially denied causing the abuse, before later admitting he had pushed the baby off the sofa on one occasion, while also playing too harshly with the baby’s arms and legs.  Green also admitted to dropping the baby down a flight of stairs. 

(KAIR)--A fatal crash is under investigation in Leavenworth County.

According to a preliminary report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, it happened Thursday afternoon on U.S. Highway 24, in Tonganoxie.

According to the report, an eastbound vehicle crossed the center line and collided with a westbound vehicle.

The impact of the crash caused the vehicle that crossed the center line to roll over.

The Patrol has not released any additional information, including the names of those involved.

The fatal wreck happened shortly after 3:00 Thursday afternoon.

(KAIR)--A stretch of U.S. Highway 59, in Buchanan County, Missouri was closed Friday following a wreck. 

According to an emergency alert issued by the St. Joseph, Missouri Police Department, the highway was closed at Highway 45 and Highway 116. 
The wreck was reported around 1:45 Friday afternoon. 
Details regarding the wreck aren't immediately available. 

(ST. JOSEPH, Mo.) St. Joseph police have identified the man found dead inside of a bag.

Police identified the victim as 39-year-old Travis Whetstine.

Police said Whetstine's body was found inside of a bag Wednesday morning in the 200 block of Chellew Road.

"It was a tarp-like material but more like a bag that the body was contained in," said St. Joseph Police Department Captain Jeff Wilson.

Police were called out to the area to investigate a suspicious item on the side of the road. Police said they were told it was possibly a body under a tarp.

Officers on the scene discovered Whetstine's body. His death is being investigated as suspicious.

Anyone with information should call Detective Carter at (816) 271-4763 or the TIPS Hotline at (816) 238-TIPS.

 LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) - Nebraska's short-staffed corrections department has announced a new $10,000 hiring bonus to try to lure new workers into jobs in the state's three largest male prisons.

The Department of Correctional Services announced the bonuses Thursday for new corporals at the Nebraska State Penitentiary, the Tecumseh State Correctional Institution and the Lincoln Correctional Center/Diagnostic and Evaluation Center.

New employees previously received a $3,000 bonus.

The Nebraska State Penitentiary is also switching to 12-hour work shifts until the workforce stabilizes. Corrections Director Scott Frakes says he has declared a staffing emergency, a procedural move required under state labor contracts to put the changes into effect immediately.
  

The department is also offering $10,000 referral bonuses.
  

Staffers currently employed at the Nebraska State Penitentiary will receive an automatic $500 bonus at the year's end.
 

(KNZA)--Saturday is National Drug Take Back Day.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidit, in a news release, said law enforcement officers at locations across the state will be collecting unused medications for safe disposal.

In addition, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said vapes and cartridges will also be accepted at drop off locations throughout Kansas.

Collection events will be held Saturday from 10:00 in the morning until 2:00 in the afternoon. Locally, drop-off locations include the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office in Atchison, Brown County Sheriff’s Office in Hiawatha, and Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office in Seneca.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said his office will collect unused and unwanted drugs near the entrance of the Holton Walmart from 10 until 2:00 Saturday.

There will be two drop-off locations in Leavenworth---CVS Pharmacy and Wal-Mart Pharmacy.

The collection events are part of a nationwide effort to safely dispose of leftover medications to prevent accidental or intentional misuse.

The National Drug Take-Back Day is coordinated by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, which collects and safely destroys the medications.

Unused medications can be turned in year-round at many local law enforcement locations.

Since the Drug Take-Back Day program began in 2010, Schmidt said more than 88 tons of unwanted medications have been collected and destroyed in Kansas alone.

(KAIR)--A Bendena man is sentenced to more than 5-years in prison in connection with dog-fighting.

The Saint Joseph News-Press reports 29-year-old Colton Albright learned his fate Wednesday in a Doniphan County courtroom.

As the result of a plea agreement, Albright was sentenced on six felony counts of dog-fighting, and a misdemeanor count of marijuana possession.

Albright had originally been charged with ten counts of dog-fighting, three counts of possession of dog-fighting paraphernalia, and one count of animal cruelty.

He pleaded guilty in August as part of the plea agreement.

Albright was arrested in August, 2018, after Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents, assisted by the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant at his residence.

45 dogs, and dog-fighting paraphernalia, were seized at that time.

HOYT, Kan. (AP) — A Kansas high school student was allowed to remain in school after he was accused of sexually assaulting a female classmate, even though he was facing charges for other sex crimes, according to a federal lawsuit.

The suit alleges that the Royal Valley School District was aware that the male student was a "known danger" and already had been charged with sex crimes in two other cases when the girl reported that she had been raped at school in November 2017, reports The Kansas City Star. Both students attended Royal Valley High School in Hoyt, about 17 miles (27 kilometers) north of Topeka.

The suit, which was filed Tuesday in federal court by the girl's father, says his daughter was "forced to continue walking the same hallways and be in the same classrooms as the perpetrator who raped her." That led her to transfer to another school "because of the trauma of being raped and because Defendants permitted her assailant to remain in school" and to participate in extracurricular activities, the suit said.

The male student, identified in the suit as W.H., initially was charged with rape and aggravated sexual battery in the school case, but pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of sexual assault, the suit says. No details were released about his sentence.

Superintendent, Aaric Davis, who also is named as a defendant in the suit, said he was "not aware of the lawsuit being filed" and couldn't discuss pending litigation.

Christopher Dove, the plaintiff's attorney, said the school district failed to protect the student and wouldn't provide information to her parents after she was assaulted.

"It becomes a legal matter because the school didn't want to take care of her on the front end and even after it happened didn't want to take steps to make her feel that it was a school she wanted to return to," Dove said.

The suit said that for "a long period of time" before the girl was assaulted, the district knew that her attacker was "sexually assaulting and harassing multiple female students in the School District."

The male student also was charged in March 2016 with multiple counts of sexually soliciting minors, sexual exploitation of minors and making a criminal threat of sexual assault against a minor, according to the suit. The charges stemmed from incidents that occurred during November and December 2015.

In August of 2017, according to the suit, he was charged with aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

His criminal records are filed under seal in juvenile court. The suit provided no details on how the cases were resolved.

The lawsuit claims the district violated its own policy against sexual harassment and bullying and failed to protect students when it chose not to act against W.H. before or after the November 2017 assault

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners have approved the purchase of a new motorgrader for the Road Department.

Commissioners approved the purchase of a John Deere 722G, six-wheel drive grader from the Nebraska State Purchasing Bureau on the State Bid contract at $253,450.  The County will trade in a 2004 CAT 12H grader reducing the price by $48-thousand.  With the trade-in and addition of options the total price to Richardson County will be $223,450.  

The Board also approved an interlocal agreement presented by Emergency Management Agency Director Brian Kirkendall creating the Southeast Region, a separate legal entity, to provide for cooperative public safety services by and among counties.  

Southeast Nebraska counties included in the agreement are Cass, Gage, Fillmore, Jefferson, Johnson, Lancaster, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson, Saline, Seward, Thayer and York. 

In other action the Board approved an agreement with Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise to continue funding for August 1, 2019 through July 31, 2020 in an amount of $15-thousand.  

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of  Aldermen conducted public hearings during the October meeting concerning water and sewer rates. 

A sewer rate analysis indicated the current rates are insufficient to support the cost of operation dept and repair.  The Council approved an increase in the base rate by two-cents to $6.30 and leave the unit cost at $5.08 per 1,000 gallons.  

The water analysis also indicated a need to increase the rates to support the department. Aldermen approved increasing the base rate to $6.84 and  $8.83 per 1,000 gallons for in-town users the base rate for out-of-town users to $10.53 and $11.05 per 1,000 gallons of water used. 

The increases will take effect January 1, 2020. 

In other business Jeff Arp with MIRMA presented a grant for the Mound City Sewer Department of up to $6,500 for the purchase of a sewer camera.  

Midwest Data representative Jeremy Davis reported the installation of fiber optic to the homes in Mound City will take around 20 months to complete.  
 

(KAIR)--A heavily traveled stretch of highway, closed since last month, has now reopened.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, U.S. Highway 59, in Buchanan County, Missouri, reopened Wednesday afternoon.

The stretch of highway, located east of Atchison, Kansas, was closed September 23 due to flooding.

A news release issued by MoDot says floodwater does remain over one lane of the highway, with traffic narrowed to one lane and directed by temporary traffic signals. Delays are likely.

The reopening follows MoDot crews Wednesday working to place a berm on the north side of the highway.

The roadway has closed and reopened several times during flooding this year.

(PLATTE COUNTY, Mo.) A Savannah, Missouri man was killed in a crash in rural Platte County on Tuesday afternoon.

According to a Facebook post from the Platte County Sheriff's Office, the crash happened around 2:40  at the intersection of Missouri 92 and Missouri 45.

59-year-old Jeffrey Swan, of Agency, Mo., was driving a Ford Mustang east on Missouri 92, when he stopped in traffic and was waiting to make a left turn.

52-year-old Thomas Kennedy, of Leavenworth, Kan., was driving a Ford F-550 when he came up behind Swan's car and rear ended it.

42-year-old Randy Dudley, of Savannah, was a passenger in Swan's car. Dudley was pronounced dead on scene.

Swan was transported to North Kansas City Hospital with non-life threatening injuries, while Kennedy refused any medical treatment.

Authorities reported that all three people were wearing their seat belts.

The wreck  is now under investigation by the Platte County Sheriff's Office Crash Team.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Police Officers arrested an Auburn woman Tuesday evening following multiple disturbances at Community Medical Center in Falls City. 

Officers were first called to the hospital when 33-year-old Lucy Ezell was standing outside the hospital in a breezeway causing a disturbance. She was told she could wait for her ride, if she would stop her disruptive behavior.

Later, officers were called back and hospital personnel said they would sign a complaint against Ezell for trespassing and disturbing the peace. When she did not comply,  the officers attempted to arrest Ezell, she pulled away when they attempted to place her in handcuffs.  She then began to struggle, and allegedly attempted to kick and bite the officers as they placed her under arrest.

Ezell was taken to the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center where she is facing charges of criminal trespassing,  resisting arrest and disturbing the peace.  

(KLZA)-- A Falls City man was jailed Tuesday evening following a probation check conducted by Federal Probation Officers and several area law enforcement departments.

34-year-old John Pohlman was placed in the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center following a search of his home.  Pohlman is currently on probation and is a convicted felon.  During the search authorities discovered marijuana and a folding knife with a blade exceeding three-and-a-half inches.

Pohlman is charged with a felony of being a prohibited person in possession of a deadly weapon and the Falls City Police Department charged him with a misdemeanor count of possession of marijuana. 

Federal Probation officers,  Falls City Police officers, Richardson  County Sheriff's Department officers and Brown County Kansas  Sheriff's Department officers, including their drug dog conducted the search of the home and property. 

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved writing off more than $15,000 in uncollectable utility debt and sending the remaining past due accounts totaling nearly $17,000 to the Collections Bureau of Kansas for collection services.

The Commission took the action Monday evening on the recommendation of City Clerk Tish Sims.

Sims said they were not able to send some of the delinquent utility accounts to the Collections Bureau because they had no identification information, were over 10 years old and were less than $25.

On the recommendation of Water Superintendent Brad Scott , the Commission approved wage increases for four water department employees ranging from 22 cents an hour to $1.15 an hour and two promotions, effective November 2nd. Wages increases were approved for Rusty Joslin, Ryan Smith, Donnie Wooddell and Juan Weisel along with promotions for Joslin and Woodell.

Also on the recommendation of Scott, the Commission approved the hiring of Chad Goben for the position of water operator in training at a starting wage of $13.50 an hour. Goben was among three candidates interviewed.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation says a mill and overlay project on a more than 14-mile stretch of  U.S. 36 Highway in Nemaha County is expected to begin Thursday, October 24, weather permitting.

The project is scheduled to take place from the east city limits of Seneca to just west of the Nemaha/Brown County line.

KDOT, in a news release, said work on the project will occur during daylight hours with possible Saturday work. One-lane traffic will be controlled by flaggers and a pilot car.

The release says motorists should expect delays of up to 15 minutes and add extra time to their travel schedules.

Hall Brothers, Inc. of Marysville is the contractor on the $2.1 million project.

The project is scheduled for completion in late November, weather permitting.

(KAIR)--Changes made to Atchison’s River Road was the early focus of Monday’s meeting of the Atchison City Commission, with area residents voicing concerns about the road’s current condition. “I’d like to address the commission today on my displeasure with the riverfront development,” Gary Servaes, of Servaes Quarry, located at 4756 254th Rd said. “It has choked the truck traffic down to where it’s almost a dangerous issue. I’ve spent several thousands of dollars myself up there, trying to fix the potholes and stuff. I’ve visited the City several times. All I get is lip service.”

City Commissioner David Hausmann, during Commissioner comments at the meeting’s end, voiced his appreciation to those who made their concerns known. “Thank you for the great contribution you make to this community. It’s so vital. I appreciate the fact that you’re here tonight to voice concerns, going through the right process of doing so.”

Changes to River Road were made as part of the Atchison Riverfront Trail project, intended to double the length of the existing trail at the Atchison Riverfront.

According to Assistant Atchison City Manager Justin Pregont, completion of the project is likely in two to three weeks.

(KAIR)--A 14-year-old boy is facing sex crimes-related charges involving a 3-year-old child, following his arrest by Atchison Police.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson told MSC News the investigation began October 11 after his department was alerted by the Kansas Department of Children and Families in regards to a report the agency had received.

According to Wilson, the investigation determined that the crime occurred once, in early October, at an Atchison residence.

Both the suspect and victim lived at that location.

The 14-year-old was arrested Tuesday for aggravated criminal sodomy.

Once in custody, he was transported to a juvenile detention facility.

Due to his age, the suspect’s name is not made public.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members have approved a  new three-year contract with the IBEW Union representing a portion of City employees.

The contract will include a three percent raise each year of the contract. There were a number of changes to wording in the contract which pertained to full-time fire department employees, which the City no longer has. 

Council members also approved the purchase of a 2020 Ford F-150 pickup from Hullman's Ford in Falls City in an amount of $31,343 which is the state bid price.  With several options including getting it delivered to Falls City the total cost will be $35,338.  

The current Police Department pickup is a 2016 model with more than 100-thousand miles on it. 

A request to use Stone Street for a Veteran's Day parade on November 11, was approved. 

The Council also approved requesting an extension for use of owner occupied reuse funds. Later in the meeting two housing rehab projects were approved, amounting to just over $22-thousand. 

Council members also approved moving forward with a re-plat of 2.2 acres in the Industrial Tract north of Falls City Foods that would allow non-industrial buildings to be built on site.  

(KLZA)-- The Auburn City Council heard a request during their October 14 meeting from Board of Public Works General Manager Dave Hunter, to pursue refinancing of BPW water plant, waterline and a well loan to new 20  year bonds. 

It is estimated that by refinancing the loan and selling bonds, over the 20 year life of the bonds, the savings could amount to $300-thousand dollars or more. 

The Council approved a motion in favor of the refinancing which will require further Council action during their Tuesday, November 12 meeting. 

In other business the Council discussed an application for a planning grant for downtown revitalization.  No action was taken. 

(KNZA)--Jackson Heights High School hosted it eighth Honor Flight Wednesday.

Twenty-six military veterans from Jackson County and the surrounding area took part.

The veterans—many Vietnam War vets—were flown to the Washington D.C. for the day to visit memorials dedicated to those who fought and died in World War II, Korean and Vietnam Wars.  They also stopped at the Arlington National Cemetery for a viewing of the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider.    

Twenty Jackson Heights High School students participated as “ guardians” and assistants for the veterans on the Honor Flight.  Also accompanying the veterans was Dr. David Allen, who has participated in previous Honor Flights, along with other support staff.

About 200 veterans from War World II, Korean and Vietnam Wars have participated in the school’s seven previous Honor Flights.

The Honor Flight program at Jackson Heights is funded solely by volunteer donations.

To learn more about the program or make a donation to the local program, you can call Jackson Heights Superintendent Adrianne Walsh at 364-2194.

(KNZA)--Brown County voters, on November 5, will decide whether or not to approve a 10-year, half-cent countywide retailers sales tax for the Hiawatha Community Hospital to fund capital improvements and refinance the hospital's current bond.

MSC Radio News wants to hear your questions.

We will talk with Hiawatha Community Hospital CEO John Broberg, and pose your questions to him.

Submit your questions to mscnewsradio@gmail.com no later than 6 p.m. on Sunday, October 27, then join us for a special edition of More Than Just a Soundbite, Wednesday, October 30, at 6:15 a.m. and 1:05 p.m. on KNZA 103.9 FM.

If approved by voters, 100 percent of the sales tax proceeds, estimated at around $750,000 annually, would go to the Hiawatha hospital.

(KNZA)--Courthouse security was addressed during Monday’s meeting of the Doniphan County Commission.

County Emergency Management Coordinator Julie Meng, Sheriff Chad Clary and Undersheriff Mark Allen met with the Commission to discuss the matter and performing safety drills for county employees.

Meng said there would be some degree of difficulty securing the courthouse based on the number of entrances and ADA accessibility challenges.

Allen said the Sheriff’s Department is certified through the ALICE program to provide active shooter response training and would perform several drills with courthouse personnel.  He requested the courthouse be closed to the public during the 4-hour training session in order to perform different scenarios.

County Commission Chairman Thad Geiger voiced on behalf of the Commission their due diligence to make sure employees are afforded prior training, routine drills are executed and employees are able to work in a safe environment.

Commissioners asked Meng to work with the Sheriff’s Department on setting a date and time before the end of the year for the training exercise.  All courthouse personnel will be required to participate and the courthouse will be closed to the public during the training exercise.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved a contract for the purchase of property from Salem Grain, Incorporated.

The action came following an executive session Monday evening.

City Attorney Andy Delaney said the contract is for the purchase of  property located at 914 and 916 Miami Street.

Delaney said one the properties is owned by Salem, and the other, closest to the railroad tracks, is leased.  He said there will not be a purchase of that property but rather an assignment of the lease and purchase of the buildings on the property.

The city will purchase the property for $50,000. As part of the agreement, Delaney said Salem Grain will donate the money to the city for the purchase.  

The city will be responsible for the around $4,400 in closing costs.

The closing date is set for November 20.

It was not stated what the city's plans are for the property.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Council has reached an agreement with Gyhra Construction to continue with snow removal and use of a motor grader and operator to grade roads as needed.

The  Council decided this would be a better option that purchasing a small graded for the City.  Gyhra will provide the grader and and operator and charge an hourly rate. 

The Council approved a wage increase for Interim Foreman Spencer Cumley to $17 and hour while Foreman Clint Johnson is out on medical leave. Council member John Dahlgren is serving as the Interim Zoning Administrator. 

In other business the Council approved the sale of a John  Deere 750 tractor the City owns.  Jim Woolsoncroft who owns property in Pawnee County submitted the lone bid of $1,581.  

Council members also gave favorable comment to a new Class “C” liquor license for Shirley's Place.  

(KLZA)-- 100 years of healthcare in Falls City was celebrated Saturday on the Community Medical Center campus. 

Ground was broken for a hospital in Falls City in September, 1918 and the first hospital opened October 15, 1919.  

The hospital opened as “Falls City Lutheran Hospital” then came under the private ownership of Dr. C.L. Hustead in 1922. Dr. Hustead operated “Falls City Hospital” until 1940 and then sold the hospital to the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, Kansas, who operated the hospital until1955, operating under the name of  “Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Hospital.”  Bonds were sold and the hospital became Community Hospital Inc. and later Community Medical Center. 

The current hospital was built in 2009 and has already had a major addition to the facility.  

Community Medical Center Administrator Ryan Larsen said the hospital wanted to say thanks all those supporting the hospital.  

Larsen said while no new additions are currently planned,  some remodeling could be coming up.  He says technology and new ways of doing things mean you have to keep up. 

Larsen also commended the many doctors and other staff members that serve the hospital currently and in the past. He noted it's not only the doctors and nurses but the housekeepers, food service and everyone else that make the difference. 

Hundreds turned out for the Saturday celebration. 

(KMZA)--Nemaha County registered voters may now vote an advance ballot for the November 5th city and school general election.

Voters can cast their ballot either by mail or in person at the Nemaha County Clerk’s Office.

The last day ballots may be mailed out is Tuesday, October 29th.

Voters may vote in person up until 12:00 noon on Monday, November 4th.

For more information contact the County Clerk’s Office at 336-2170.

TOPEKA - Mating season and the quest for more secure habitat have deer on the move this time of year, increasing the
chances of deer-vehicle collisions.

 Typically, the greatest number of deer-vehicle crashes are in mid-November when the rut, or mating season, peaks. In addition to the rut, deer are also on the move in mid-fall seeking new food sources
and shelter as crops are harvested and leaves fall from trees and shrubs, leaving them less secure than in their summer habitats.

"Wet weather this year may cause some deer to cross roads in new places and the additional vegetation growth could make deer harder to see until they are in the road. The approaching breeding season
increases deer movement, and the cooler weather, along with young deer dispersing to find new home ranges, mean more deer may be crossing the roads." said Levi Jaster, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Big Game Coordinator. 

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, 10,734 (16.5 percent) of the 64,933 vehicle crashes reported in 2018 were deer-related (crashes in which a deer and vehicle actually collided,
or the presence of a deer was a contributing circumstance). Although crashes involving deer occur throughout the year in every Kansas county, the highest number of crashes typically occur where there are the most vehicles. Sedgwick County had 418 deer-vehicle
crashes reported in 2018, the most of any county, while Butler County followed with 384 reported deer-vehicle crashes.

“In addition to potentially causing human injuries and loss of life, deer collisions often cause significant vehicle damage that can lead to large expenses for the vehicle owner if not properly
insured,” said Shawn Steward, Public and Government Affairs Manager for AAA Kansas. “Of the animal strikes reported by AAA Insurance policy holders during the five year period between 2014 and 2018, the average cost per claim was nearly $4,300.”

The Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) cautions drivers to refrain from making exaggerated maneuvers to avoid a deer in the road, lest a bad situation become even worse.

“If you are unfortunate enough to have a deer enter the highway in front of your car, it is best to hit the animal and not swerve to avoid it,” said the KHP’s Lt. Adam Winters. “Often,
we find more serious crashes occur when you swerve to miss the deer, potentially losing control of your vehicle, leaving the road or veering into oncoming traffic.”

The agencies recommend the following to help motorists avoid crashes with deer:

• Be especially watchful at dawn and dusk, when deer are more active.

• If you see one deer, watch for others, as they seldom travel alone.

• Reduce speed and be alert near wooded areas or green spaces, such as parks and golf courses, and near water sources such as streams and ponds.

• Deer crossing signs show areas where high numbers of vehicle/deer crashes have occurred in the past. Heed these warnings.

• Use bright lights when there is no oncoming traffic and scan the road ahead of you to watch for deer.

• Don’t swerve to avoid hitting a deer—the most serious crashes sometimes occur when motorists swerve and collide with another vehicle or run off the road and hit an obstacle.

• Always wear a seat belt and use the appropriately-fitted child safety seats—they are your best defense should you be involved in a crash.

• Honk your horn with one long blast. A long blast on your horn may frighten large animals, such as deer, away from your vehicle. The Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) advises against relying
  on devices such as deer whistles and reflectors, which have not been proven to reduce collisions with animals.

If you do strike a deer, here are some additional tips:

• Slow down, move your vehicle to the shoulder if possible, and call for law enforcement. KHP dispatch can be reached at *47, Kansas Turnpike at *KTA, and local law enforcement at 911. Make sure
  you tell the dispatcher if the animal or your vehicle is still in the road.

• If you hit a deer or other animal, do not worry about removing the animal. Law enforcement can remove the animal from the road when they arrive. Don’t go near a wounded animal. A frightened
  and wounded animal can be unpredictable.

• Turn on your hazard lights and remain buckled up inside your vehicle. You are more protected this way, should a secondary crash occur.

• If you must be outside your vehicle, make sure it is as far off the road as possible, and do not stand between your vehicle and another one. Keep children buckled, and in car seats in the vehicle.
  Be vigilant and watch traffic to ensure they aren’t getting close to you.

Anyone involved in a vehicle-deer crash resulting in personal injury or property damage that totals $1,000 or more is required to immediately report the crash to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Failure to report any traffic crash is a misdemeanor and may result in suspension of driving privileges.

A salvage tag is required to remove a deer carcass, or any part of the carcass, from the crash site. Tags can be issued by KHP troopers, sheriff’s deputies, or KDWPT game wardens.

(KAIR)--Advance voting is now underway, leading up to Atchison County’s November 5 general election.

According to Atchison County Clerk Michelle Phillips, advance ballots can be cast at the clerk’s Atchison County Courthouse office from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The advance, in person voting will end at 12 noon on November 4.

Phillips says those who wish to cast a ballot in advance need to bring a photo ID to her office, where they will receive their ballot to vote immediately.

Advance voting can also be conducted through the U.S. mail. To do so, Phillips says an application must be filled out, and returned to her office, which will then mail a ballot to the voter. That can be accomplished by going to the clerk’s office, calling the office, or utilizing the Kansas Secretary of State’s website, where applications are available. However, Phillips said it will need to printed, completed, and returned to her office.

Ballots will not be able to be mailed after 5:00 on the evening of Tuesday, October 29.

All advance mail ballots must be returned by 7:00 on the evening of election day, November 5. Phillips says they can either be mailed, or delivered, to her office, or taken to any Atchison County polling location on that date.

Any questions should be addressed to the Atchison County Clerk’s Office at 913-804-6030.

Among Atchison County-based offices to be decided on election day are the Atchison City Commission, the city councils in Effingham and Muscotah, and USD 409, and USD 377.

(KMZA)--A gas leak in Seneca over the weekend lead to the evacuation of more than 300 people.

Nemaha County Emergency Preparedness Director Russ Lierz met with the Nemaha County Commission Monday to inform them about the gas leak.

Lierz said the leak occurred around 4:45 Saturday afternoon after a gas line was cut at 4th and Amador Streets during the installation of a mail box.

Lierz said the leak was temporarily fixed by 8:30 Saturday evening and residents were allowed to return to their homes by 9:00.

Also evauation were

The Nemaha County Sheriff's Department, Seneca Police Department and Seneca Volunteer Fire Department helped with the evacuation.

No one was injured.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee City Council members tabled the appointment of a new Council member during their October 15th meeting.  

Mayor Deb Klein did not make a recommendation to fill the  vacancy on the Council.  A recommendation and vote by the Council is expected during the October 28th meeting. 

A loan with a two-year payback was approved by the Council.   The City agreed to loan the Pawnee City Assisted Living Board $80,108 allowing them to make their loan payment to the USDA.    The PCAL hopes that when the new facility gains more residents, they will be able to make their own payments and pay the City back. 

Following a public hearing, Council members approved a $20-thousand loan, from Community Development Block Grant, Reuse funds, to Sterup Enterprises to assist them with the purchase of the Pawnee Republican Newspaper.  John Sterup will use the money to help purchase the equipment and working capital of the paper. 

(KLZA)-- The Nemaha County, Nebraska Board of Commissioners  have appointed a Public Defender. 

During the October 16th meeting the Board approved the recommendation from the Nemaha County Public Defender Policy Board to appoint Keith Kollasch of Auburn to the position. 

The appointment is for a 4-year period and will pay Kollasch $51,600 per year the first two years and $52,80 per year for the final two years of the contract. 

Commissioners also met with Jim Oestmann of the Auburn Agency and Jim Garbina from the Harry Koch Insurance Aency regarding the increase in health insurance premiums for Nemaha County.  Garbina presented several different palns for the Board to review.  No action was taken. 

(KAIR)--A jury trial is now set for an Atchison man who previously served time in prison for violent crimes.

32-year-old Matthew Hermreck on October 11 entered a plea of not guilty in Atchison County District Court to his latest round of charges which followed a June arrest for domestic violence.

According to the office of the Atchison County Attorney, the jury trial for Hermreck is scheduled for January 21.

According to Atchison Police investigators at the time of his arrest, Hermreck in May was accused of striking and choking a 36-year-old victim. Days later, it’s alleged he again choked the victim.
He was arrested in June on Atchison County District Court warrants charging him with aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery, and criminal damage to property.

According to online Atchison County Jail records, he remains in custody on those charges.

He’s held on a Kansas Department of Corrections warrant for parole violation, with a no-bond hold.

Hermreck was sentenced in December, 2012 to 7 ½ years in prison on a charge of attempted second-degree murder. The sentence, handed down in Brown County District Court, was in connection with what prosecutors said was the brutal beating of a Horton woman at her home. The victim in that case spent several weeks at the University of Kansas Hospital, in Kansas City, Kansas, following the attack. The victim’s three-year-old daughter also suffered injuries that required hospital treatment.

(KNZA)--The Holton school district will be hosting two evenings of “ community forums” this week to explain the $4.5 million general obligation bond issue proposal that will appear on the November 5 general election ballot.

The forums will take place Wednesday and Thursday evenings at 6:00, 6:30 and 7:00 in the Holton High School Library.  Patrons are invited to attend.

If approved by voters, the 20-year bond issue would pay for the completion of a plan to upgrade the heating and cooling system at the Holton High School and Holton Middle School.

During a special meeting in March, the USD 336 Board approved a plan to spend up to $975,000 in capital outlay funds to start the work.

Superintendent Bob Davies said if the bond issue is approved, it will not increase local taxes in the district because of the refinancing of the last bond issue in 2014 that was used to build a new elementary school.

Davies added the state will reimburse the district for 32 to 38 percent of the bond issue.

School officials say there have been problems with the current heating and cooling system and controls at Holton High School for at least a decade.

(KMZA)--The city of Seneca is seeking the annexation of three city owned properties located outside the city limits.

The Seneca City Council at their October 16 meeting approved a resolution requesting the Nemaha County Commission determine that annexation of the properties is appropriate.  

City Administrator Matt Rehder said the properties include the municipal airport west of town, an about 40 acre tract near Maxwell Springs and a tract of land southeast of the city where a city water well is located.      

The resolution requests a reply from the county commission within 30 days.

(KNZA)--The Board of Education for the South Brown County Schools of USD 430 is considering increasing the district’s capital outlay levy.

The Board at their October 14 meeting discussed a resolution that would authorize an annual tax levy in an amount not to exceed 8 mills for the capital outlay fund.

Currently, the levy is at 3 mills which brings in about $120,000 a year.

8 mills would bring in about $320,000.

The Board asked to see comparisons with other districts.  The matter was tabled until they receive more information.  

In other business, Horton High School Athletic Director Larry Mills reviewed the results of a survey sent out to 5th-10th grade parents to gage interest in a baseball/softball program.   Out of 160 responses, Mills said 86 percent showed interest in adding the sports.

 Tim Lentz with the Horton Industrial Development Corporation informed the Board that the organization is working on a grant to upgrade the Horton baseball/softball complex and requested the district’s support..  

It was the consensus of the Board to fully support the project.

The Board accepted the resignation of longtime elementary school teacher Nita Zeit, with regret.  Zeit has taught for 43 years.

Following an executive session, the Board approved the hiring of Austin Lovelady as the district’s new maintenance director.

(KNZA)--A remodeling project is underway at the Horton City Hall.

An ADA complaint bathroom, a break room and additional office are being installed.

The new features are being built in what was formerly a garage stall and a room that was being used for storage.  

City Clerk Kim Knudson says the work is being done by Derik Kesler, of Topeka, for around $57,000.

Knudson said the project started about 3 weeks ago and is to be completed by November 8.   

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County community of Wathena will be searching for a new chief of police.

Jared Ratzlaff announced his resignation from the position in an open letter to the residents of Wathena, which was posted October 14 on the police department’s Facebook page.

Ratzlaff, who has been in law enforcement since 2004, has held the position since May, 2018.

In his letter, Ratzlaff said after a long conservation with his family it was decided it was best thing for his family that he resign.        

Ratzlaff thanked everyone for the support they have shown his family since moving to the community.

He cited several accomplishments during his tenure in Wathena---including the creation of the 1st National Night Out event and relationships he has built with several businesses in town and the Riverside School District.      

Ratzlaff will be joining the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Department and  plans to continue living in Wathena,.

Editor's note:  the following is the letter Ratzlaff posted.

Citizens of Wathena

After a long conversation with my family, we have decided the best thing for us is for me to resign from the position of Chief of Police. I want to say thank you to everyone for the support they have shown my family and I since we moved to this wonderful community. We absolutely love it here and it is for this reason we will remain living here.
While working with you we have created some wonderful things in town. The 1st National Night Out was held and a great success. This program is not going to end, I assure you. I have also built a relationship with several businesses in town and with Riverside School District. The relationship I have with the faculty and students alike is simply amazing.
I have been able to work with different groups and help to bring different programs to our small community and we should all be proud of these small accomplishments. I look forward to continuing these relationships and programs as a member of the Doniphan County Sheriff Department.
Thank you again for your support and I look forward of continuing to work with you to make my new home the best little town in Kansas.
Everyone should be very proud to say they are from Wathena, I can't wait to watch these great traditions grow.

Jared Ratzlaff

(KAIR)--A Lansing man is going to prison in connection with a 2017 shooting near Easton.

According to a news release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 21-year-old Andrew Foderaro was sentenced Friday in Leavenworth County District Court to 13-years behind bars.

Foderaro was charged with attempted murder, possession of cocaine, possession of stolen property, and possession of marijuana.

According to Thompson, the charges stem from the shooting that occurred just outside of Easton in October 2017, with the victim suffering gunshot wounds to the back and shoulder area as well as to his left thigh area.

Thompson said the shooting was the result of a drug deal gone bad.

Foderaro admitted to meeting the victim to purchase cocaine and marijuana, and acknowledged that he had no intention to pay for the purchase.

He additionally told investigators that once the drugs were in his possession, he retrieved a Glock 9mm from his vehicle and began shooting.

(KNZA)--The mother of a 14-year-old Hiawatha High School student who was the target of a racially-charged cyber bullying incident last month addressed the Hiawatha school board when they met Monday evening.

Brooke Grier addressed the Board during the public comment portion of the meeting. “It’s our understanding that the racism slash disability policy will be added to the handbook tonight, and that’s our main reason for attending,” Grier told the Board, adding, “I don’t necessarily understand why racism and disability are hooked together, but we can save that discussion for later.”

Grier said along with that policy, she calls on the district to implement sensitivity training in an effort to alleviate racial bullying. “We also want to make sure that some form of sensitivity training on racism can take place at the school, sometime during this year, for the students and the staff as well. I know in the past it has been promised to other parents, other years, and it has not come to fruition. I do want that taken seriously, and I do expect something to happen, with that, this year.”

Board President Ian Schuetz addressed the issue, explaining that due to legal reasons, such topics have to be handled sensitively. “There is sort of an undercurrent narrative going through the community right now that we are tolerant by turning a blind eye to injustices to our kids. We don’t have the ability to really hit that directly, to hit that head on, because of the limits that are placed on us from a legal standpoint.”

Schuetz said it’s his belief that district administrators are working properly in handling such matters. “From where I stand, I do think that our administrators act from a point of fairness, of being honorable, about what they do. I think that there’s always a chance for us to go and try and look for ways to improve and do better. I think some of the things that are very pointed right now, I think we’re actively working on that.”

At the request of Grier, the Board Monday evening approved adding a condensed version of the district’s racial harassment policy, which was created in January of this year, to student handbooks for next school year.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser told the Board he’s working on creating a diversity council, and has, so far, received four commitments from individuals to serve on the council, which would consist of patrons and facility members.

Board member John Wright suggested that the council also include student members.

Moser said the group would focus on leading and facilitating efforts to provide students and staff with equitable experiences in USD 415.

It was the consensus of the board that Moser should move forward with the creation of the diversity council and provide an update at next month’s meeting.

Following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department, two 9th grade boys were charged last month with a misdemeanor count of harassment by telecommunication device in connection with the racial bullying incident.

Moser previously said he could not comment on what disciplinary action was taken by the school district because of student privacy laws.

(KNZA)--Public health warnings have been lifted for three local northeast Kansas lakes.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in a news release Thursday, said the Atchison County Lake, Hiawatha City Lake and Holton’s Elk Horn Lake are no longer under warnings due to blue-green algae.

However, Lake Jeanette in Leavenworth County remains under “warning” status.

Five lakes in the state are currently under health warnings and six under watches due to the presence of blue-green algae.

For lakes under warnings, KDHE says direct contact with the water should be avoided.    

Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water. However, only the fillet portion should be consumed and all other parts are discarded.

.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman required hospital treatment following a Thursday night wreck inside the Atchison city limits.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson told MSC News 51-year-old Ann Huntington was northbound on North 3rd Street when she struck a parked vehicle.

Her Jeep Grand Cherokee rolled onto its side, following the impact, and emergency crews were called to the scene.

Huntington was transported for hospitalized treatment by Atchison County EMS.

Wilson said she was cited for inattentive driving and failure to wear a seatbelt.

The wreck occurred around 10:25 Thursday night.

(KAIR)--A GoFundMe account has been established for one of the two victims of a fatal Atchison County crash involving a car and train.

38-year-old Allison Richardson was a passenger in a car that stopped on railroad tracks, in the rural Atchison County area of River Road and 244th Road, late Wednesday night.

The train struck the car, killing Richardson, while the driver, 34-year-old Jeremy McAfee, of Savannah, Missouri, died following transport to the Atchison Hospital.

According to the GoFundMe fundraising campaign, Richardson was the mother of two daughters, aged 16 and 9, with her mother and brother now in need of financial assistance for their support, as well as for funeral expenses.

The financial goal of the campaign is $30,000. As of noon Friday, $2,252 had been raised.

Funeral services for Richardson are apparently not yet established, and an obituary for McAfee was not immediately available.

Despite claims made in the description of the GoFundMe, pertaining to the reasons behind the crash, Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie told MSC News nothing has been determined as the investigation continues.

The investigation shows that the train was traveling around 45 mph at the time of the fatal crash.

(KLZA)-- Highway 136 from Brownville, Nebraska to Interstate 29  in Atchison County, Missouri is once again open to traffic. 

Following 217 days of closure due to flooding, damage, repair, more flooding and more repair the highway was reopened Thursday afternoon. The bridge over the Missouri River at Brownville and the bridge at Phelps City are also carrying traffic again. 

The Highway was closed due to flooding on March 15.  Crews from Phillips Hardy Inc. working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, spent approximately 60 days removing debris and completing extensive roadway repairs.  A work stoppage occurred when flood waters rose again and there was a weeklong break while a temporary bridge was removed.

Full-scale repair efforts have been non-stop since August 26. The work included filling two large areas where the roadbed had washed away,  resurfacing and repairing the approaches at the bridge near Phelps City. 

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man facing felony charges of sexual exploitation of a child and breach of privacy has waived his preliminary hearing.

David Cattrell was bound over to Brown County District Court Wednesday for arraignment on November 18.

He was arrested in April following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department.

According to the criminal complaint, Cattrell is accused of the sexual exploitation of a child under the age of 18.  He is also accused of using a concealed camcorder to secretly.

Cattrell remains free on a $50,000 bond.

(KNZA)--A group of farmers came together Thursday to harvest the soybean crop of a late Brown County farmer.

440 acres of soybeans were cut belonging to the late Brian Schweitzer of rural Morrill.  Schweitzer died September 3 at the age of 53.

The crop was harvested from 3 different fields, northwest of Morrill.

Harlen Bailey of Sabetha told MSC News that around 20 people were involved.

Bailey said about ten combines, eight grain carts and five trucks were brought in to complete the task.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Teachers Association voted Thursday to accept the latest contract offer for the current school year.

It calls for a 7.21 percent increase in the base salary from $37,310 to $40,000 plus movement on the salary schedule.  Incorporated in the salary schedule are $510 " steps" for years of service and $800 " steps" for level of education.

The agreement will now go the Hiawatha School Board for ratification at their November 11 meeting.

Once approved, the agreement is retroactive to August 1.

A mediator met with both sides October 7 after an impasse was declared in contract negotiations, and the teacher's negotiating team decided to take the same offer made in August back for another vote.

(KNZA)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has proclaimed Hiawatha as “ Halloween Town.”

The proclamation comes due to the city’s rich Halloween history. The city boasts the oldest Halloween parade and celebration in the United States.

Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau Board President Kate Miller said she is excited by the honor as the community is preparing for the 105th Halloween Frolic later this month.

This year’s theme is “ Season of the Witch.”

This year’s frolic will be on Thursday, Oct. 31, with the afternoon parade at 3:00 and grand parade at 7:00 in the evening.

The Hiawatha Halloween queen will be crowned at 6:00 prior to the grand parade.

There will be additional activities that afternoon--including the Miss Mary Children’s Costume Contest at 1:00 and downtown business trick-or-treating from 3:30 to 5 around the courthouse square.

(KAIR)--Two people are dead after a train collided with a car that was stopped on Atchison County railroad tracks late Wednesday night.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, it happened just before midnight Thursday, in the area of River Road and 244th Road, in rural Atchison County.

Dead are 34-year-old Savannah, Missouri resident Jeremy McAfee and 38-year-old Platte City, Missouri resident Allison Richardson.

According to Laurie, when deputies arrived on the scene, they found McAfee outside the car, and he was transported by Atchison County EMS to the Atchison Hospital, where he later died.

Richardson was pronounced dead at the scene.

McAfee was driving the 2015 Hyundai Elantra at the time that investigators believe the vehicle stopped on the railroad tracks. It remains undetermined why that occurred, with the investigation ongoing.

Richardson was a passenger in the front of the car.

The investigation shows that the train was traveling around 45 mph at the time of the fatal crash.

Assisting at the scene were Atchison County EMS, Atchison County Rescue, Union Pacific Railroad Police, and other Union Pacific employees.

The 2015 Hyundai Elantra struck by a train on the railroad crossing located at River Road and 244th Road, in rural Atchison County, on the night of October 16, 2019. (Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff's Office)

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved a proposal from Attorney Steven J. Mercure, of Tecumseh, to serve as Richardson County Public Defender for a four- year period when they met Tuesday.

At the recommendation of the Richardson County Policy Board, Commissioners approved a contract calling for a 2020 salary of $68-thousand with annual increases of $1,000 each year of the contract.  

Clerk of the District Court Pam Scott had notified the Board by letter that Richardson County was among the top three counties in the district for court cases filed during fiscal year 2019.  Of the 2,076 cases filed in the district,  294 or 14.2 percent, were filed in Richardson County.  

In addition to Richardson County, the district consists of Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Saline and  Thayer counties.

Following a review with County Attorney Doug Merz, the  agreement between Richardson, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe and Pawnee counties and the Administrative Office of the Courts and Probation for the Southeast Nebraska Adult Drug Court, Commissioners approved the interlocal agreement.  

(KLZA)-- A Wahoo, Nebraska man who was living in Falls City is currently being held in the Richardson County Jail on a $20-thousand cash bond.

42-year-old Travis Sherman is charged with felony counts of sexual assault, burglary, false imprisonment and a misdemeanor charge of sexual assault without consent.

Court documents indicate Sherman is accused of sexually assaulting a female at a Falls City home on or about July 26.  The burglary, false imprisonment and the misdemeanor sexual assault charges stem from incidents at the same location on July 28.

Sherman entered plea's of not guilty to all of the charges. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for November 5 in Richardson County District Court. 

(KAIR)--A routine theft call to the Atchison Walmart led to the alleged discovery of a gun and drugs, and to the arrest of an Atchison man.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a report, said his officers responded to the store, located at 1920 U.S. Highway 73, around 7:00 Tuesday evening to investigate a theft.

When they arrived, they took 24-year-old Benjamin Ervin into custody for a theft with a value of under $100.

However, Wilson said officers discovered that Ervin was in possession of heroin and drug paraphernalia, as well as a gun.

Ervin now faces charges for theft, possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia, and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon.

Following his arrest, Ervin was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KAIR)--The Missouri River floodwaters that forced the closure of a well traveled, local area Missouri roadway, are receding slowly.

That word is delivered in a social media post made Wednesday by the Atchison County, Kansas Emergency Management office.

According to the post, U.S. Highway 59, east of Atchison, remains closed, with floodwaters remaining over the highway.

Saying that the floodwaters are receding slowly, the post states that the Missouri Department of Transportation is monitoring the situation and will reopen the highway as soon as possible.

MoDot, responding to an emailed inquiry from MSC News, said there is no timeline for when the highway will reopen.

According to the agency, citing crews working in the local area, floodwater remains over the roadway in three locations. However, an assessment from the crews reveal no major damage to the roadway from the flooding.

The stretch of highway, located in Buchanan County, Missouri, is closed from Missouri Highway 45 to Atchison, Kansas.

The roadway has closed, and then reopened, several times during flooding this year.

The latest closure was put in place September 23.

(KNZA)--An Atchison, Kansas man was injured Wednesday morning in a northwest Missouri semi wreck.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on Route H in Nodaway County about 4 miles northeast of Graham.

The Patrol reports 36-year-old Dustin Kuhnert was southbound when the trailer being towed by his semi truck traveled off the right side of the roadway, causing the rig to overturn in the ditch onto its side.

Kuhnert was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in Maryville with what the Patrol described as moderate injuries.

The Patrol says he was wearing a seat belt when the wreck happened shortly before 9:00 Wednesday morning.

(KLZA)-- A Hamburg, Iowa man was sentenced Wednesday in federal court in Lincoln for theft of government money. 

According to a release from U.S. Attorney Joe Kelly,  63-year-old Paul Sellon was sentenced to 24 months in prison for his role in the theft of more than $300-thousand while he was the Superintendent of Santee community Schools on the Santee  Sioux Nation Reservation in Santee, Nebraska from 2010 to 2014. 

There is no parole in the federal system.  Once Sellon is released from prison he will begin a three-year term of supervised release.  He has also been ordered to pay $314,121 in restitution to the United States Department of  Education. 

Sellon caused the School to contract with an educational consulting business owned and operated by an associate of his.  The consultant was paid with funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act school Improvement Grant.

As a precondition to hiring the consultant, Sellon was paid a portion of the proceeds the consultant would receive from the grant.  From 2012 to 2013,  Sellon was paid $314,121 through the kickback arrangement. 

The case was investigated by the FBI. 

Editors note: The Hiawatha Teachers Association voted Thursday to accept the latest contract offer for the current school year mentioned in the article below.  The agreement will now go to the Board of Education for ratification at their November 11 meeting.

(KNZA)--A group of teachers were present at Monday’s Hiawatha School Board meeting, with two speaking out against the latest contract offer for the current school year.

Teachers have a deadline of October 17 to vote on the current offer on the table.  It calls for a 7.21 percent increase in the base salary from $37,310 to $40,000 plus movement on the salary schedule.  The proposed salary schedule includes $510 “steps” for years of service and $800 “steps” for education level.   

A mediator met with both sides October 7 after an impasse was declared in contract negotiations, and the teacher’s negotiating team decided to take the same offer made in August back for another vote.

If the current offer is not accepted, negotiations could move to what’s called the “fact-finding” stage.  Under that stage, both sides would submit their "best and final" offers to a third-party reviewer (or panel of reviewers). The reviewer then issues a report outlining a recommended settlement.

According to district officials, the Teacher's Association had asked for $4,000 to be added to the base, a near 11 percent increase over last year's salary.

Hiawatha High School teachers Patty Davis and Robyn Saunders told the Board Monday evening that with the increase in state funding, teachers should get more money. Davis called the district’s offer “insulting.”

Davis said higher salaries would attract better qualified teachers. “By increasing teacher salaries, education would be a much more desirable profession, and competition would be created to attract only the best teachers. That’s what I want for USD 415, top-notch highly qualified teachers, not long-term subs, not teachers in transition.”     

Saunders said she loves what she does, but her value as a certified teacher in the district feels almost non-existent.

According to information provided by the district on Big 7 League schools, the offer by the Hiawatha School District to their teachers would place them at the top, based on salary, if the current offer of a 7.21 percent increase to the base is approved.  Coming in second is Perry-Lecompton with a base salary of $39,400.  
The other Big 7 League schools have approved their contracts for the current school year.

(KLZA)-- The time frame to re-open Missouri Highway 159 between the Missouri River and Route 111 in Holt County, Missouri is unknown at this time. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation said in a Tuesday news release, flooding that has occurred since the roadway was re-opened  has caused an unknown amount of damage. 

MoDOT has confirmed some shoulder scour, but the rest of the damage is unknown due to water that remains over the highway.  

Due to damage to the Little Tarkio Creek Bridge near Fortescue, once U.S. 159 is reopened, a signed detour will remain in place to move traffic between Nebraska and Interstate 29. 

The Little Tarkio Creek Bridge near Fortescue is described as a complete loss and will need to be replaced.  Emery Sapp &  Sons Inc. was awarded a more than $2.5-million contact in  June to replace the bridge.  As soon as floodwaters recede work will begin.  It is noted that some work can only take place above certain temperatures so the bridge will possibly remain closed through the winter. 

Also in  Holt County, work on the Penny  Slough Bridge replacement project east of Fortescue will begin when floodwater recede.  The $2.2-million contract has been awarded, but due to flood water and winter temperatures, the bridge could remain closed through the winter. 

A large land slide on a section of Route T in Holt County, near Mill Bluff Road has forced the road to be closed.  MoDOT is working with consultants to complete a geotechnical analysis and develop plans for a repair project that is scheduled for bid letting in March, 2020. 

(KLZA)-- The time frame to re-open Missouri Highway 159 between the Missouri River and Route 111 in Holt County, Missouri is unknown at this time. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation said in a Tuesday news release, flooding that has occurred since the roadway was re-opened  has caused an unknown amount of damage. 

MoDOT has confirmed some shoulder scour, but the rest of the damage is unknown due to water that remains over the highway.  

Due to damage to the Little Tarkio Creek Bridge near Fortescue, once U.S. 159 is reopened, a signed detour will remain in place to move traffic between Nebraska and Interstate 29. 

The Little Tarkio Creek Bridge near Fortescue is described as a complete loss and will need to be replaced.  Emery Sapp &  Sons Inc. was awarded a more than $2.5-million contact in  June to replace the bridge.  As soon as floodwaters recede work will begin.  It is noted that some work can only take place above certain temperatures so the bridge will possibly remain closed through the winter. 

Also in  Holt County, work on the Penny  Slough Bridge replacement project east of Fortescue will begin when floodwater recede.  The $2.2-million contract has been awarded, but due to flood water and winter temperatures, the bridge could remain closed through the winter. 

A large land slide on a section of Route T in Holt County, near Mill Bluff Road has forced the road to be closed.  MoDOT is working with consultants to complete a geotechnical analysis and develop plans for a repair project that is scheduled for bid letting in March, 2020. 

(KLZA)-- The time frame to re-open Missouri Highway 159 between the Missouri River and Route 111 in Holt County, Missouri is unknown at this time. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation said in a Tuesday news release, flooding that has occurred since the roadway was re-opened  has caused an unknown amount of damage. 

MoDOT has confirmed some shoulder scour, but the rest of the damage is unknown due to water that remains over the highway.  

Due to damage to the Little Tarkio Creek Bridge near Fortescue, once U.S. 159 is reopened, a signed detour will remain in place to move traffic between Nebraska and Interstate 29. 

The Little Tarkio Creek Bridge near Fortescue is described as a complete loss and will need to be replaced.  Emery Sapp &  Sons Inc. was awarded a more than $2.5-million contact in  June to replace the bridge.  As soon as floodwaters recede work will begin.  It is noted that some work can only take place above certain temperatures so the bridge will possibly remain closed through the winter. 

Also in  Holt County, work on the Penny  Slough Bridge replacement project east of Fortescue will begin when floodwater recede.  The $2.2-million contract has been awarded, but due to flood water and winter temperatures, the bridge could remain closed through the winter. 

A large land slide on a section of Route T in Holt County, near Mill Bluff Road has forced the road to be closed.  MoDOT is working with consultants to complete a geotechnical analysis and develop plans for a repair project that is scheduled for bid letting in March, 2020. 

(KLZA)-- Recent rises in flood waters has again delayed several flood recovery projects in Northwest Missouri. 

The Missouri Department of Transportation has awarded several contracts, with more contracts planned for roadway and shoulder repairs along with bridge reconstruction. 

MoDOT is hopeful U.S. Route 136 in Atchison County, including the Missouri River Crossing to Brownville, will be open soon. The end of this week is the earliest the stretch of road could reopen. Weather will play a big factor in determining when the road will open.

Currently the contractor is working on shoulder rock and slope work between the bridge  near Phelps  City and the Missouri River.

The contractor is also  continuing repair work on the approaches to the bridge near Phelps City.  The concrete approaches need time to cure, allowing it to reach its maximum strength.

MoDOT also reports that at this time, there is no damage evident to the Missouri River Bridge at Brownville. 

(KAIR)--A Wednesday morning, two county pursuit, led to the arrest of a rural Mayetta man.

According to a news release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, 23-year-old Lane Michael Simpson was arrested following the pursuit that crossed from Jackson County into Jefferson County and involved deputies from both locations.

It began around 8:30, in southern Jackson County, after a deputy spotted a pickup truck near 150th and P. Road allegedly commit traffic violations.

According to Morse, Simpson didn’t stop, with the pursuit beginning near 142nd and Q. Road, continuing east into Jefferson County.

It continued southbound on Meriden Road, with a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy deploying stop sticks at 102nd and Meriden Road.

The Ford F-250, alleged to have been driven by Simpson, turned west toward Jackson County on 90th Road, and became disabled when the front driver’s side tire separated from the wheel.

Simpson was taken into custody by Jefferson County deputies on Christie Road, and transported to the Jackson County Jail.

Simpson faces charges for felony flee and eluding a law enforcement officer, driving while suspended, reckless driving, and operating a vehicle without an interlock device. Simpson also had outstanding warrants from Atchison and Douglas Counties, as well as the City of Topeka.

The Kansas Highway Patrol, utilizing a helicopter, and the Ozawkie Police Department, also assisted during the pursuit.

(KAIR)--A Wednesday morning, two county pursuit, led to the arrest of a rural Mayetta man.

According to a news release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, 23-year-old Lane Michael Simpson was arrested following the pursuit that crossed from Jackson County into Jefferson County and involved deputies from both locations.

It began around 8:30, in southern Jackson County, after a deputy spotted a pickup truck near 150th and P. Road allegedly commit traffic violations.

According to Morse, Simpson didn’t stop, with the pursuit beginning near 142nd and Q. Road, continuing east into Jefferson County.

It continued southbound on Meriden Road, with a Jefferson County Sheriff’s Deputy deploying stop sticks at 102nd and Meriden Road.

The Ford F-250, alleged to have been driven by Simpson, turned west toward Jackson County on 90th Road, and became disabled when the front driver’s side tire separated from the wheel.

Simpson was taken into custody by Jefferson County deputies on Christie Road, and transported to the Jackson County Jail.

Simpson faces charges for felony flee and eluding a law enforcement officer, driving while suspended, reckless driving, and operating a vehicle without an interlock device. Simpson also had outstanding warrants from Atchison and Douglas Counties, as well as the City of Topeka.

The Kansas Highway Patrol, utilizing a helicopter, and the Ozawkie Police Department, also assisted during the pursuit.

(KAIR)--A weekend traffic stop sent an Atchison man to jail on drug charges.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 48-year-old Jason Thomas was arrested Sunday evening.

That followed a traffic stop in the 1100 block of Atchison’s L Street for a traffic infraction.

According to the report, a vehicle search was conducted after a “positive indication of the odor of narcotics” was made by a Kansas Highway Patrol K-9 Unit.
Methamphetamine and multiple items of drug paraphernalia were allegedly located, and seized, during the investigation.

Thomas was taken into custody on charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp.

Following his arrest, Thomas was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

His bond is set at $30,000.

(KMZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education has approved adjustments to the “ Standards of Solvency and Viability” document approved by the board in October 2016.

Superintendent Todd Evans said the Board voted Monday evening to adjust the viability document within the strategic plan as presented by Board member Kent Saylor.

Evans said the campus revenue allocations in the supplemental general fund will go through a formula that takes property valuation into consideration as opposed to the previous formula that relied on weighted enrollment.

The changes were approved on a 6-1 vote, with board member Kathy Lippert casting the lone dissenting vote.

In other business, Evans said the Board approved a proposal from Hansen Design Architects for a facility study of Sabetha Elementary School.  In addition, the firm will look at space at Sabetha High School and recommendations for Axtell and Wetmore.  The preliminary architectural work will be done for a fee not to exceed $6,000.

The Board held the meeting at the Axtell Public School where they toured the recently remodeled areas of the school.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City School District is looking for a new Secondary Principal and Activities Director. 

Monday night the Board accepted, with regret, the resignation of Don Jacobs from the position, effective June 30, 2020.  

The Board then authorized Superintendent Brian Rottinghaus to advertise to fill the position. 
 

(KLZA)-- A proposed football cooperative between the Humboldt -  Table Rock – Steinauer and Pawnee City Schools will not occur.  

Monday night the HTRS School Board voted against the proposed agreement with two votes in favor and four votes against the proposal.  Voting against the proposal were Board members Rock Herr, Sandy Stalder, Scott Ogle and Neal Kanel.  Voting in favor the proposed co-op were Board members Tim Schaardt and Mike Bredemeier. 

The Pawnee  City School Board did approved moving forward with the co-op Monday night on a 5-1 vote.  Casting the lone nay vote was Board member Amy Gyhra.

Currently the two school do co-op Junior High football and high school wrestling. There are 31 players on the Junior High co-op team which consists of  7th and 8th grade players. 17 of the players are from the Pawnee City School with 14 from HTRS.  

With the proposed co-op voted down,  Pawnee City must now decide if they want to continue to play 8-Man football or perhaps play 6-Man football.  Six of the current 12 players on the Pawnee City team are seniors, 
 

(KNZA)--Public meetings are set this week to allow local residents the opportunity to learn more about the 3rd annual Big Kansas Road Trip that is coming to Brown, Doniphan and Nemaha Counties May 7-10, 2020, and how they can be involved.

The Inman-based Kansas Sampler Foundation created the event after ending the 28-year Kansas Sampler Festival.  Foundation Director Marci Penner said the purpose of the event is to help the public get to know Kansas communities of every size.

On Wednesday evening, public meetings on the Big Kansas Road Trip will be held at the Troy Public Library at 5:30 and Wathena Community Building at 7:15.

On Thursday evening, meetings will be  held at the Carwell Building at the Brown County Ag Museum in Hiawatha at 5:30 and at the Nemaha County Community Building in Seneca at 7:30.

Local residents can attend anyone of the meetings.    

(KLZA)-- A new Ward I Councilman has been appointed in Tecumseh. 

During the October 7 Council meeting, Jeff Mahoney was approved by the current Council members to fill the open seat. 

According to the Tecumseh Chieftan, Mahoney will be sworn in November 4. 

The Tecumseh Council has also approved a change to City Hall office hours beginning November 1. 

To accommodate customers wanting to come in over the lunch hour,  the new office hours will be 7:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.  City Hall will remain open over the lunch hour but will be closing half an hour earlier. 

(KLZA)-- A new Ward I Councilman has been appointed in Tecumseh. 

During the October 7 Council meeting, Jeff Mahoney was approved by the current Council members to fill the open seat. 

According to the Tecumseh Chieftan, Mahoney will be sworn in November 4. 

The Tecumseh Council has also approved a change to City Hall office hours beginning November 1. 

To accommodate customers wanting to come in over the lunch hour,  the new office hours will be 7:30 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.  City Hall will remain open over the lunch hour but will be closing half an hour earlier. 

(KLZA)-- Three people sustained injuries in a pair of Northwest Missouri wrecks over the weekend. 

Sunday evening two people were injured when a minivan, northbound on P, Avenue, approximately 2.5-miles south of Fairfax began to swerve, slid off the east side of the road and struck an embankment, then overturned onto the drivers side and slid to a stop. 

The driver, 26-year-old Chelsea Count of Tarkio suffered what the Missouri Highway Patrol reported as minor injuries and was transported by private vehicle to Mosaic Life Care in St.  Joseph.  A passenger in the van, 29-year-old Samantha Driskell of Tarkio was transported by the Atchison-Holt Ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with serious injuries.

Both occupants of the  van were wearing safety devicies at the time of the wreck. 

Friday afternoon,  46-year-old Tammie Sanders of Skidmore, Missouri suffered serious injuries in a single-vehicle wreck 2.5 miles  north of Maitland on Missouri Highway 13 in Holt County. 

The Missouri Highway Patrol reported Sanders was northbound on MO-113 and traveled off the east side of the road, overcorrected, causing the Ford Explorer to skid out of control.  The vehicle struck an embankment, went airborne and overturned, coming to rest on its top in a bean field.  

Sanders who was not wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck was transported by Lifenet Air Ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in st. Joseph. 

The Holt County Sheriff's Office, Nodaway County Sheriff's Office and Mound City Police Department all assisted at the scene of the wreck. 

(KMZA)--Twenty-one area veterans will depart Tuesday for an Honor Flight to Washington D.C.

Participants include one Korean veteran and 20 Vietnam veterans.  They will be accompanied by three guardians and three flight leaders.

Veterans will board vans at the Seneca American Legion at 9:30 Tuesday morning. The vans, escorted by Legion Riders on motorcycles, will travel  down Main Street and past schools before heading out of town on U.S. 36 Highway. Seneca residents are urged to have their flags flying and pay patriotic respect when the vans carrying the veterans pass by.

The local group will meet up with other northeast Kansas veterans to drive to Wichita, where they will leave early Wednesday morning on Kansas Honor Flight #77 for a three-day journey to the nation’s Capitol.

The Kansas Honor Flight is an all-volunteer organization that works to honor Kansas veterans of World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War by providing them an all-expense paid journey to visit their memorials in Washington D.C.

(KNZA)--The dates and times when fireworks can be sold and discharged in Holton’s city limits will remain the same.

That comes despite the efforts of a group of  local residents who sought to have the Holton City Commission reduce the number of days that fireworks can be discharged around the 4th of July.

The Holton Recorder reports Commissioners heard comments from residents on both sides of the issue at their October 7 meeting.

Those in support of reducing the number of days fireworks can be discharged voiced concerns about the noise, potential for damage and effects on pets and veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD) that are associated with fireworks.

On the other side, Commissioners were cautioned about cutting into Independence Day traditions.  Representatives of the Holton’s VFW post, which sells fireworks as a fund-raiser, were among those who urged commissioners not to make a change.

Currently, city ordinance allows the discharge of Class C fireworks between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. June 27-July 5 of each year, with the exception of July 4, when fireworks can be discharged until midnight.  Under current state law, fireworks can also be sold June 27-July 5.

Commissioners agreed that no change should be made.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Commission will hold three special meetings this week to discuss the sales tax initiative to appear on the November 5 general election ballot

The meetings will take place Tuesday evening at the Netawaka Community Building, Wednesday evening at the Memorial Hall on the first floor of the Jackson County Courthouse in Holton, and Thursday evening at the Hoyt Community Building.  All the meetings will be held at 7:00.

Jackson County voters will decide during the election whether to renew a four-tenth percent countywide retailers’ sales tax for another seven years, effective April 1, 2020.  Funding from the sales tax is used for road and bridge improvements.  A portion of the tax is also distributed to all the towns in the county.   

The special sales tax was first approved by voters in 2004.   

(KAIR)--Following a delay, plans to resurface U.S. Highway 59, in Buchanan County, Missouri, move forward.

According to a news release issued by the Missouri Department of Transportation, the work is scheduled to begin Tuesday, weather permitting.

13-miles of resurfacing will take place on the highway, south of St. Joseph, from Route 752, in St. Joseph, to just north of Route 45.

Crews will mill off the old surface of the roadway and then lay down new asphalt.

Herzog Contracting Corporation is the contractor on the project.

Although Herzog had postponed the bulk of the work, including resurfacing of the mainline and the left-turn lane on southbound 59 at route 45, they have begun the turn lane work, taking advantage of the reduced traffic due to the U.S. Route 59 flooding closure west of Route 45, east of Atchison, Kansas. The turn lane will reopen once the pavement cures.

Beginning Tuesday, crews plan to patch on the edge and in the center of the roadway, then move to milling and overlaying the entire route within the project limits.

Crews will work during daylight hours, Monday through Saturday, but some work may occur on Sundays, if necessary, to complete the project on schedule. A pilot car will be used to guide vehicles through the work zone.

The contractor hopes to have all work completed in early November.

(KAIR)--No change yet in the charges filed against three Atchison men accused of playing a role in a fatal September altercation.

According to the Doniphan County Attorney’s Office, Matthew Cole Scherer, Brian Spilman, Jr., and Scott Vandeloo remain charged with aggravated battery stemming from the altercation during an overnight Doniphan County party.

According to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, 42-year-old Cummings resident Jason Pantle was hospitalized during the early morning hours of September 22, and died September 28 while remaining under hospitalized care.

According to the KBI, amended charges are expected to be filed, but the Doniphan County Attorney’s Office Friday said that has not yet happened as the investigation remains in progress.

30-year-old Scherer and 22-year-old Spilman are scheduled for November 19 court appearances, while 44-year-old Vandeloo is scheduled to appear on the morning of October 29.

All three remain in custody, held on bonds of $150,000 each.

(KNZA)--Twenty area northeast Kansas programs and agencies benefit through a donation made by a local tribe.

On Thursday, the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation presented $80,285 in donations during a ceremony held on the Tribe’s reservation, near Mayetta.

According to a press release, each quarter the Tribe distributes funding awards to various organizations and events promoting “ community stewardship and long term sustainability of resources for Kansans.”

Among those selected to receive a portion of the funding were Royal Valley USD 337, Habitat for Humanity, Coats for Kids and Housing and Credit Counseling.

The Tribe accepts contribution requests throughout the year.

In 2018, the Tribe donated over $311,000 to the northeast Kansas area.

Chad Stroble and Bambi Richardson (Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff's Office)

(KAIR)--Two arrests are made in connection with a case that led to the recovery of a stolen van.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson told MSC News 42-year-old Bambi Richardson, of Leavenworth, and 47-year-old Chad Stroble, of Atchison, were both taken into custody as a result of the investigation that began around 6:30 Thursday evening. “Officers responded to the 1500 block Applegate Drive to locate a female who was banned from the apartment complex. They located Bambi Richardson and she was taken into custody for criminal trespass and a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court. She was also found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.”

According to Wilson, it was discovered at the time of Richardson’s arrest that a van reported stolen earlier this month was parked at the location. “[Officers] found a 1998 Dodge van parked on Applegate Drive that was determined to be stolen in Kansas City Kansas on October 4. An investigation at the scene led officers to an apartment where they located Chad Stroble hiding in a room in the apartment. He had a family member that resided there, who allowed the officers in. He was taken into custody for possession of the stolen van and subsequently found to be in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.”

Police allege that Stroble was also in possession of a stolen license plate. “He was also charged with driving while suspended and possession of a license tag reported stolen in Kansas City Missouri on October 8.”

Stroble was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and possession of a stolen vehicle.

Richardson was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and criminal trespass, as well as an Atchison County District Court Warrant for failure to appear.

Both were booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KAIR)--Candidates vying for three open Atchison City Commission seats will take part in a forum planned for Monday.

The candidate forum is being held by the LEAD Council of the Atchsion Area Chamber of Commerce.

According to a news release, the forum will begin at 6:00 Monday evening in the USD 409 Community Room, located at 626 Commercial Street.

It will be live streamed on the Atchison, Kansas Facebook page, and recorded for later playback on Atchison’s local access channel.

Questions for the candidates have been submitted in advance, and will be asked by forum facilitator Steve Johnson, the Director of Marketing and Communications at Benedictine College.

Seven candidates are seeking the three open seats, including incumbents Charles Perdue and David Hausmann. Also seeking election are Abby Bartlett, Lisa Moody, William Murphy, J. David Faris and Luke Jesnowki.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The lower Missouri River will remain high into December because of the large amount of water being released from dams into the river.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says the amount of water being released from the Gavins Point dam on the Nebraska-South Dakota border will remain at a level more than twice what is typical for this time of year - 80,000 cubic feet per second - into mid-December.

Officials do not expect significant new flooding along the river because of the high releases. But many levees remain damaged from severe flooding in the spring, allowing the floodwaters to flow into many farm fields and rural areas.

The amount of rain and melting snow flowing into the river has remained exceptionally high this fall, and wet weather is expected to continue through the end of the year.

(KNZA)--A partnership between two area law enforcement agencies is being done in the effort to combat crime.

That’s according to a news release issued by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

According to the release, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office have teamed up, with investigators and command staff from both agencies now cross deputized, a common practice across the nation which allows law enforcement agencies to share resources and manpower.

The release states the partnership has been a long time goal for Morse, who says criminal and criminal activity don’t necessarily stop at the county line.

Due to its higher population, Morse notes that Shawnee County is the source of many suspects and fugitives being sought by Jackson County, while Jackson County is a destination location where Shawnee County fugitives are often found.

Morse calls the program “beneficial to residents of both counties, with law enforcement able to share intelligence information and work together” in combating crimes ranging from drug trafficking to burglaries and thefts.

Details about the partnership were worked out by Morse and Shawnee County Sheriff Brian Hill during a recent visit to Washington D.C.

(KNZA)--Two Brown County law enforcement agencies have been awarded grants to support the purchase of new equipment and technology.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt announced in a news release Wednesday that the Horton Police Department will receive $24,890 to enhance existing in-car and body camera systems.

In addition, Schmidt said the Sac and Fox Tribal Police Department will receive  $34,650 to replace existing outdated in-car and body camera systems.

“One of the keys to keeping our communities safe in the 21st Century is making sure our law enforcement officers have 21st Century technology,” Schmidt said. “These grants will provide opportunities for local authorities to make these upgrades.”

The grants are part of the Federal Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program and were awarded by the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. Schmidt serves as the chair of the council.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Step Foundation Board of Directors has announced recipients for the second-round of 2019 grants.

According to a news release from the STEP Foundation, two organizations will be receiving a total of $ 8,400 from the Foundation general endowment fund.

Seneca Boy Scout Troop 71 has been awarded $7,300 to purchase a new trailer and camping gear.

Camp Coordinator Doug Dalinghaus said in the application that with the increase in the number of Boy Scouts going to Scout camp each year and other camping events, their current trailer does not accommodate the needs of the Troop.  Dalinghaus also said their current camping gear is in poor condition and outdated.

Centralia USD 380 schools was awarded $1,100 to upgrade library materials and decor.  

The grant funds will be used to upgrade books that are often read but in poor condition, purchase additional books to enhance selections and upgrade decor to reflect a positive atmosphere. Library aide Lydia Steinlage said the overall goal is to have an inviting library with easy access to quality books.

The release said more $57,000 in grant funding was requested this round.

Grants are available twice a year through the STEP Foundation, with the next deadline being January 15, 2020.  

(MSC News)--Tuesday, October 15 is the deadline to register to vote in Kansas for the November 5 general election.

Area residents can register at their local county clerk’s office.

To be eligible to vote, a resident must be 18 years of age before Election Day.

Those voting for the first time must provide a driver’s license number or ID card number, as well as provide proof of citizenship.

Once registered, a voter remains registered until they change name by marriage, divorce, or other legal proceeding or change residence.  

Voters during the November 5 general election will decide city and school board races.  In addition, voters in several locations will face special questions.

Advance voting for the election will begin Wednesday, October 16, and will be available through noon on Monday, November 4 at your local county clerk’s office.  You can also request to have an advance ballot mailed to you.
 

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) - The company working to build a mine in southeast Nebraska to extract a rare heat-resistant element says the project qualified for up to $200 million in state tax incentives.

NioCorp Developments said Tuesday it signed a contract with Nebraska for tax incentives on the proposed niobium mine near Elk Creek. The project is expected to create over 400 jobs and require more than $1 billion in construction costs.

NioCorp says the incentives would lower its operating costs in the first 10 years of the mine's operation. The company is working to raise enough money to move forward with the project.

The U.S. currently imports nearly all the niobium that's used in this country to harden steel and make it more heat-resistant for industrial uses.

NioCorp is based in Centennial, Colorado.
 

(KAIR)--More than $100,000 in federal funding is earmarked for use in Jackson County.

That word is delivered in a news release issued Tuesday by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

The release says the Sheriff’s Office received notification from the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Monday that $129,399 has been awarded to Jackson County through the Federal Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.

According to Morse, the funds are designated to fund the upgrade of mobile and portable radios for deputies. The current radio equipment is in need of being updated due to age. Morse, in the release, says it’s important to have reliable radio communications equipment to be able to better serve the community, and to keep deputies safe.

The grant program is named for Edward R. Byrne, an NYPD police officer gunned down in the line of duty in 1988.

The program allows states and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime and to improve the justice system.

(KAIR)--A Brown County native is named as the Coordinator for the Delaware River Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy, commonly known as WRAPS.

A news release issued by the program says Ted Hinton has been hired for that role.

Hinton is a lifelong resident of Northeast Kansas, and grew up in Brown County. He earned an agribusiness degree from Kansas State University, and has worked for multiple agribusiness companies throughout Northeast Kansas. Hinton is a Certified Crop Advisor with what the release calls “extensive professional experience in agricultural production systems and technologies.”

Hinton will fill the role held by outgoing Coordinator Kerry Wedel.

The WRAPS program helps landowners meet their conservation goals while reducing sediment, nutrient and bacterial pollution of streams and lakes in the watershed. 

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members approved a new contract with the Communications  Workers of America union when they met Monday evening. 

The three year contract will provide a three percent pay increase to employees each year of the contract. 

The supervisors group will receive a $7 per day on-call pay raise and additional time to file grievances.

Another change concerns how sick leave is paid out to retiring employees.  The City was paying 100 percent of the sick leave  hours after an employee had been with the City of 25 years.  

Under the new agreement, the City will eventually pay only 50 percent of the sick leave hours, bringing Falls City in line with other municipalities in their peer group. 

There are three separate unions representing various city employee groups.  

(KNZA)--KANZA Mental Health plans to sell its current office building in Troy, and move to another location in the Doniphan County community.

KANZA CEO David Jasper met with the Doniphan County Commission Monday to update them on the status of the building located at 134 East Walnut Street, on the north side of the square.

Jasper said the building is starting to need some work to the roof and other areas.

He said they are in the process of entering into a long term lease agreement for  office space at 135 North Main Street.  Jasper said the building, located adjacent to the Troy Library, is ADA accessible.

KANZA purchased the current building in 2014.

In other business, Doniphan County Aging Adminstrator Peggy Wood presented the Commission with bids for the construction of a 12 by 30 foot lean to on the east side of the Highland Center Citizens Center over the ADA accessible ramp.

The Commission accepted a bid from Smith Plumbing, of Troy, in the amount of $5,750.

It was among three bids received.
   

(KNZA)--More than $100,000 in federal funding is earmarked for use in Jackson County.

That word is delivered in a news release issued Tuesday by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

The release says the Sheriff’s Office received notification from the Kansas Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Monday that $129,399 has been awarded to the Sheriff's Office through the Federal Edward J. Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program.

According to Morse, the funds are designated to fund the upgrade of mobile and portable radios for deputies. The current radio equipment is in need of being updated due to age. Morse, in the release, says it’s important to have reliable radio communications equipment to be able to better serve the community, and to keep deputies safe.

The grant program is named for Edward R. Byrne, an NYPD police officer gunned down in the line of duty in 1988.

The program allows states and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime and to improve the justice system.

(KNZA)--A Horton man is facing Jackson County charges following his arrest in connection with a stolen vehicle.

According to a news release issued by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, 48-year-old Ronnie Lee Brandenburg, Jr. was arrested following a traffic stop.

Morse said the stop occurred Tuesday evening, on U.S. Highway 75, south of Mayetta.

The deputy who made the stop discovered that the 1990 Lexus, being driven by Brandenburg, had been reported stolen in Topeka.

Brandenburg was arrested on charges of felony possession of stolen property and driving while suspended.

Following his arrest, Brandenburg was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KLZA)-- Technical issues caused the primary 911 systems to go down in Richardson, Nemaha and Otoe counties in Southeast, Nebraska Wednesday. 

The system went down early Wednesday morning but was back in working order by around 2:30 Wednesday afternoon. 

The 911 system has a backup which allowed emergency calls in Richardson County to roll over to the Johnson County Dispatch Center and the Nemaha County emergency calls to roll over to the Jefferson County PUblic Service Answering Point.  

No information was available on the issue that caused the  system to go down.

(KNZA)--A late Tuesday morning single-vehicle Holt County, Missouri crash sent a Verdon, Nebraska man to the hospital.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 60-year-old Keith Eickhoff was northbound on I-29 about two miles north of Mound City when he attempted to changes lanes.  His pickup truck ran off the inside shoulder where it struck a guardrail and rolled onto its top. The vehicle slid to a stop, blocking the driving lane.

Eickhoff was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with what the Patrol described as moderate injuries.

The Patrol says he was wearing a seatbelt when the wreck occurred shortly after 11:00 Tuesday morning.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff’s Office is investigating several burglaries in Robinson.

Sheriff John Merchant, in a news release, said his office took a report October 6 of break-ins at AG Partners and the Robinson Community Store.

Cash and items were stolen, with the value of the stolen items less than $1,000 for each business.

Merchant said three juveniles from the Robinson area are being charged with burglary and criminal damage to property, but the incident remains under investigation.

Another case, also dating to October 6, is under investigation. According to Merchant, his office received a report that several storage units at Robinson Self-Storage had locks cut.

Renters of the units were notified and minimal items were reported stolen.

Merchant said information has been shared with other neighboring counties having the same issues.

He said the Robinson Post Office, on October 3, reported a lock being cut on the mail drop box.

The loss was undetermined.

Doniphan County has reported similar incidents at post offices in communities located in that neighboring county.

(KAIR)--National Fire Prevention Week is underway, running from October 6, 2019 through October 12, 2019. 
Atchison Fire Chief Ted Graf sat down with MSC Radio News Director Brian Hagen to talk about the week, and ways to be safe during actual fire emergencies. 

(KMZA)--For the second week in a row, the Nemaha County Commission Monday heard a presentation on zoning.

Commissioners and more than 20 county residents in attendance heard from Wabaunsee County Zoning Administrator David Breiner.

Breiner said his county has been zoned for about 20 years.  He said it started when a real estate developer wanted to build a 200 lot trailer park in the county.  Breiner said the county developed a comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance, and was able to stop the building of the lots.  The county was later able to stop a wind farm from building turbines  in the county because they had the zoning regulations.   

Breiner said the county, as they were told last week, must have a comprehensive plan before developing zoning regulations.

He said the county should first create a planning commission consisting of 12 to 14 members.  Breiner suggested it be made up of a representative from each town in the county, at least one person from each of the commissioner districts and several at large members.

The planning commission would take input gathered from public meetings to develop a comprehensive plan.  Once the plan is created, it would then be submitted to the county commission for review.  They could accept it or send it back to the planning commission for changes.

Breiner said the county also needs to create a board of zoning appeals and a zoning plan.

Commissioners earlier his year said they are considering establishing zoning regulations as a  way to regulate large-scale energy projects—including wind farms. At the same time, they implemented a six-month moratorium on new energy developments, which expires at the end of October.  Commissioners are expected to extend the moratorium.   

(KNZA)--A program to recognize Hiawatha’s Hometown Heroes takes a big step forward, with a bid approved for the purchase of banners for the program.

The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved awarding the bid to Rileighs Outdoor Decor, of Bethlehem Pennsylvania.

The company will charge $105 per banner plus a $2 shipping charge per banner. 

It was the lowest among three bids received. 

Residents will be able to purchase a banner for display on a light pole recognizing a military veteran, past or present.

Local resident Katina Vonderschmidt proposed the program to the Commission last December, which commissioners gave the green light too.

In other business, the Commission awarded the bid for the purchase of  snow plow for the street department truck to Knapheid Truck Equipment of  Kansas City in the amount of $8,726.

It was the lowest among two bids received.

Jerry Gifford appeared before the Commission to request the city fix an alley behind his rental property at 403 Delaware, which he says is in bad shape.

Mayor Bill Collins told Gifford the city doesn’t maintain alley’s, with residents  responsible for maintaining them. 

City Clerk Tish Sims read, and Mayor Collins signed, a proclamation declaring October 6-12 as National 4-H week.  On hand were members of the Mount Zion Rustlers 4-H club.  

(KNZA)--As scams continue to circulate across the region, a local sheriff’s office is providing resources to help residents from falling victim to scammers.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, citing “the alarming rate of unscrupulous individuals trying to scam people out of their hard earned money,” is making available identity theft information booklets. They can be picked up, at no cost, in the lobby of the Brown County Sheriff’s Office, located in Hiawatha.

The resource is made available as Merchant is made aware of another round of scam phone calls, including one falsely claiming that social security information has been compromised.

Another resurfacing scam is one where residents receive a phone call claiming that a grandchild has been arrested in a foreign country. “Folks are getting called. [The caller says] that their grandchildren have been in a jail in Mexico, and that they need some money wired to them right away, and they seem very frantic when they call. The folks are very concerned, and when they followup, they find out that really, in fact, their grandkids aren’t down there.”

Another scam is being reported that involves the false claim that the IRS is owed money. “We’ve had calls from people getting messages from people eluding the fact that they are IRS representatives and if they don’t send x number amount of dollars right way, they will issue warrants, or people will lose their jobs, or something, if they’re not complying with the IRS. If the IRS wants to contact you, they will contact you by mail, not by phone.”

Merchant says the safest way to handle such phone calls is to hang up quickly, and provide no information.

If someone feels they may have fallen victim to a scam, Merchant says they should call his office, or other local law enforcement, immediately.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man was airlifted to an area hospital following a single-vehicle Doniphan County wreck Tuesday morning.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-120 at 180th Road shortly before 7:30.

The Patrol reports 53-year-old Kevin Waggoner was southbound when he over negotiated a curve to the east and his cement truck overturned.

Waggoner was transported by Lifeflight to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says he was buckled up at the time of the wreck.  

(KLZA)-- Community Medical Center in  Falls City invites the public to celebrate 100 years of healthcare services to the area. 

The Centennial Celebration will be held on the CMC Campus, Saturday, October 19 from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

A pulled pork lunch with baked beans will be served to those in attendance at no charge and there will be cake.  In addition, beverages will be available to purchase.

There will be a short program at 1:00 p.m. 

There will be golf carts to shuttle persons from the Aquatic Park and Personal Care parking lots. The front parking lot area at the hospital will be reserved for patients' family members that day.

If you have questions you may contact the Administration Office at 402-245-6503. 

(KAIR)--Mailbox break-ins at locations in Doniphan County are under investigation.

That’s according to a news release issued by the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Office.

According to the release, on October 2, the Highland Police Department had a report of locks being cut from postal drop boxes.  A similar situation also occurred in White Cloud.

The Postal Inspector’s Office was notified and they agreed to work the case internally.  
On October 4, the Wathena Police Department was notified the drop box in Wathena also had the locks cut as well.  Investigators learned the Troy Post Office and Elwood Post Office Postal Drop Boxes also had locks cut.
No suspect is yet identified.

The Doniphan County Law Enforcement and the Postal Inspectors office is looking for anyone that may have information about the crimes. 

If you have used a Postal Drop Box in or around Doniphan County to send mail, please follow up with the person(s) you sent mail to and ensure they have received anything you may have sent.  If you have sent any payments via the mail using the Drop Box, we are again asking you to ensure the people you sent it to have received this payment and you may need to stop payment on any checks sent.  
Any information helping solve this case please contact Doniphan County Sheriff Department at 785-985-3711.

(KNZA)--A Monday morning single-vehicle Brown County wreck sent a Dubois, Nebraska man to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on Thrasher Road at 260th Road.

The Patrol reports a semi tractor-trailer driven by 50-year-old Corey Young was southbound when the vehicle left the roadway and overturned.

Young was transported to the Hiawatha Community Hospital for the treatment of possible injuries.

The Patrol says Young was wearing a seatbelt when the wreck occurred around 8:45 Monday morning.

(MSC News) Charges have been filed in connection with a fatal crash in St. Joseph in September.

KQ2-TV reports the Buchanan County Prosecutor's Office has charged 42-year-old Jeremy Livingston, of St. Joseph, with involuntary manslaughter in the first degree.

Police said Livingston was driving car at a high rate of speed late September 23 when he lost control of the vehicle and it crashed into a tree near the intersection of 6th Avenue and Lovers lane. Police allege Livingston was driving under the influence.
 
A passenger in the vehicle, 36-year-old Danielle Grable, was killed in the crash.

Livingston remains in the Buchanan County Jail, held on a $25,000 bond.

He is scheduled to be arraigned Tuesday morning.  

(KMZA)--A savings of more than $22,000 is expected due to a state grant received by the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a news release, the Kansas 911 Coordinating Council awarded the office a grant to replace and maintain a new voice recorder for the 911 Communications Center.

The grant, which requires a 40% match, will save Nemaha County around $22,600, with those funds to be used for future 911 expenses.

The funds were made available to the state agency through the national 911 grant program, which is administered through the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

More than $2.5 million was awarded to Kansas.

(KNZA)--A Saturday afternoon single-vehicle Doniphan County wreck sent a St. Joseph woman to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports 54-year-old Mary Hummer was eastbound on a downhill, curved, private driveway at 861 Monument Road.  The Patrol says Hummer was traveling at a speed too fast to negotiate the curve. Her SUV left the roadway and rolled down an embankment, coming to rest on its top.

Hummer was transported to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

The wreck was reported shortly before 3:30 Saturday afternoon.     

(KAIR)--Locks are cut on an Effingham storage facility, but no items appear to have been taken.

That word comes from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, who told MSC News the investigation is underway. “It was obvious that a lot of the property had been gone through, and moved around, probably looking around for more valuable items,” Laurie said, adding, “none of the people who rent the units said that they were missing anything at this point.”

According to Laurie, the effort to narrow the time frame of when the crime was committed is a key focus of investigators, who are working to see if the case has any connection to other recent, similar crimes in Atchison County. “There were six locks cut on six different units, but two of the units didn’t look like they had been entered. Just unsure of when it all happened, and try to narrow that down, and look into a couple of the leads that we have that relate to some of the other thefts we had in the area.”

The report of the burglary, which occurred at 804 Howard Street, in Effingham, was made September 30.

Anyone with information regarding the case is urged to contact the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has voted to increase the starting salary for sheriff’s deputies.

The Commission took the action when they met Monday.

Sheriff Chad Clary and Undersheriff Mark Allen presented the Commission with information on the wages paid by surrounding law enforcement agencies.  It  showed a starting salary ranging from $15 an hour to $17.50 an hour based on experience.

Clary said he is currently three deputies short and would like to hire two full-time deputies and one part-time.  

In order to be competitive and hire trained experienced officers, he requested the starting pay for experienced officers be set at $16.50 an hour plus benefits, with a different pay scale set for non-experienced officers.

Following an executive session, the Commission voted unanimously to set the starting wage for experienced officers who have completed the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center at $16.50 an hour plus benefits.  The Commission voted to set the pay for non-experienced officers at $15 an hour plus benefits.  Current deputies below the new starting wage will be increased based upon their experience level.

In other business, the Commission voted to hire Nicholas Popple to fill the 2nd District road foreman position, effective October 10.  

He will be paid an annual salary of $40,000 subject to a 90-day probationary period.  Upon successful completion of the probation period, his salary will increase to the pay rate of the 1st and 3rd  district road foremen

(KMZA)--A Seneca man has been sentenced to nearly 13 years in prison on a charge of rape.

Nemaha County Attorney Brad Lippert said 22-year-old Brandon Ogden was sentenced September 26 to 155 months in prison on the felony charge.

After serving his prison sentence, Lippert said Ogden will remain on parole, with electronic monitoring, for the rest of life.  In addition, he must register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life.

Ogden pleaded no contest to the charge in August for engaging in sexual intercourse with a child under 14 years of age.  In exchange for the plea, two additional child sex-related charges were dismissed.

Ogden was arrested in August of last year following a joint investigation by the Seneca Police Department and Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office.    

(KAIR)--The reward being offered in connection with a July explosion in downtown Atchison has been increased.

Investigators have upped the reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever was responsible to $10,000, an increase from the $5,000 originally offered. That’s according to information posted Thursday to the Atchison Police Department’s Facebook page.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is investigating the crime in conjunction with Atchison Police, and other agencies.

The explosion happened in the early morning hours of July 6, 2018 when someone placed what investigators call an improvised explosive device outside of the Hair Spital Barber Shop, located at 120 North 8th Street.

No one was injured in the early morning blast that damaged not only that business, but caused damage to surrounding structures as well.

No arrests have been made in connection with the case, as investigators continue their attempt to learn more details about a suspect van spotted in the area of the explosion.

Anyone with information about the case should contact the ATF at 1-888-ATF-BOMB or on their website. Tips can be given anonymously.

MSC Radio News Director Brian Hagen had a chance to talk with Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson about the latest in the ongoing investigation.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Police Department is asking the public to contact them if they have information on a Falls City man wanted on felony warrants.

A news release from the police department said an officer stopped a vehicle driven by 35--year-old Keith A. Ferris  around 6:40 A.M. Saturday, September 21 in the 1700  Block of Abbott Street.  

Ferris could not produce proof of insurance so was not allowed to drive  the car and left the scene.

During a search of the car, substances suspected to be methamphetamine, marijuana, dextroamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were located. 

At about 10 o'clock that morning, Falls City police officers attempted to contact Ferris at a home at  924 Harlan Street.  A search warrant was executed as part of the investigation.  During the search of the residence, officers found suspected oxycodone, methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

26-year-old Samantha Liming was arrested at the scene and taken into custody on charges including felony charges of possession of oxycodone and possession of heroin in addition to misdemeanor charges of possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

An arrest warrant has been issued for Ferris on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine and marijuana with intent to distribute within one thousand feet of a playground, possession of oxycodone and possession of dextroamphetamine.  In addition, Ferris is facing misdemeanor charges of child abuse and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The police department asks that anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Ferris to contact them at 402-245-4422.  

(KNZA)--A Willis man will stand trial on a charge of rape.

Following a preliminary hearing Wednesday, Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said a judge found probable cause that 20-year-old A.J. Lay committed the offense and bound him over to Brown County District Court.

Hill said that came after the presentation of evidence including testimony of the victim, a detective with the Hiawatha Police Department and digital forensic evidence from cellular phones.

Arraignment was set for October 28.
 
Lay was charged in January following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department.

Lay was also bound over on a felony count of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement in a separate case stemming from a high speed chase on December 28, 2018 in Brown County.

A preliminary hearing on charges in a third case against Lay stemming from the theft of tires and rims from Armstrong Tire, in rural Muscotah, was continued to a later date.

Lay remains in the Brown County Jail, held on a total bond of $115,000.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has learned about the process they would need to follow to establish zoning regulations in the county.

Commissioners and about 40 county residents in attendance heard a presentation Monday from Gary Stith, director of the Flint Hills Regional Council.

Stith said if the county is going to implement zoning the first step is to create  a comprehensive plan, which communicates a community’s goals and objectives, and provides a blueprint for future land use.

Stith recently helped Wabaunsee County update its comprehensive plan, which he said was about a year along process.

He said  a comprehensive plan is still beneficial even if the county doesn’t  implement zoning.   Stith said it can be used for economic development purposes, to identify infrastructure needs and provide information useful in seeking grants.

He said if the county wants to do a comprehensive plan, the first thing is to  set up  a steering committee. The committee would guide the information-gathering phase.  Stith said public participation in the process is critical.

A draft comprehensive plan would be submitted for adoption to a county-appointed planning commission, which would then submit the document to Commissioners for final approval

Stith estimated it would cost the county $55,000 to $60,000 to create a comprehensive plan.

In May, Commissioners said they are considering establishing zoning regulations as a way to regulate large-scale energy projects—including wind farms.  At the same, they implemented a six-month moratorium on new energy developments, which expires at the end of October.   Commission Chairman Gary Scoby said he anticipates the Commission will extend the moratorium.

Commissioners will hear from David Breiner, Wabaunsee County Zoning Officer, on Monday, October 7 at 10:00 a.m. in the Nemaha County Courtroom. 

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board held a short special meeting Wednesday afternoon.

The Board took action on the only agenda item--approving the replacement of  the wheel chair lift at the elementary school at a cost of $19,250.

The current lift is out of service and parts are obsolete.

Funding for the new lift will come from the capital outlay fund.

Four board members were present for the meeting which lasted just 3 minutes.   

Left to right: Matthew Cole Scherer, Brian Spilman, Jr. (Credit: LV Co Sheriff's Office) and Scott Vandeloo (Credit: Platte Co Sheriff's Office)

(KAIR)--Although amended charges are expected, all three suspects accused of playing a role in a fatal fight continue to face charges of aggravated battery.

30-year-old Matthew Cole Scherer, 22-year-old Brian Spilman, Jr., and 44-year-old Scott Vandeloo all remain in custody at the Leavenworth County Jail.

Each is held on a bond of $150,000.

Scherer and Spilman are expected to appear in Doniphan County District Court next week, with a preliminary hearing for Spillman scheduled for October 8 and a preliminary hearing for Scherer set for October 10. Vandeloo’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 29.

All three suspects are Atchison residents.

The victim of the September 22 Doniphan County altercation is identified by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation as 42-year-old Jason Pantle. The Cummings resident was pronounced dead September 28 at the University of Kansas Hospital where he had been hospitalized in critical condition with head injuries.

In a news release issued September 30, the KBI said amended charges were expected following Pantle’s death. As of October 2, the charges for all three suspects remained listed in court documents as aggravated battery.

The Doniphan County Attorney’s Office is expected to prosecute.

Services for Pantle will be held October 3 at Atchison’s Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home.

(KAIR)--Although amended charges are expected, all three suspects accused of playing a role in a fatal fight continue to face charges of aggravated battery.

30-year-old Matthew Cole Scherer, 22-year-old Brian Spillman, Jr., and 44-year-old Scott Vandeloo all remain in custody at the Leavenworth County Jail.

Each is held on a bond of $150,000.

Scherer and Spillman are expected to appear in Doniphan County District Court next week, with a preliminary hearing for Spillman scheduled for October 8 and a preliminary hearing for Scherer set for October 10. Vandeloo’s preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 29.

All three suspects are Atchison residents.

The victim of the September 22 Doniphan County altercation is identified by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation as 42-year-old Jason Pantle. The Cummings resident was pronounced dead September 28 at the University of Kansas Hospital where he had been hospitalized in critical condition with head injuries.

In a news release issued September 30, the KBI said amended charges were expected following Pantle’s death. As of October 2, the charges for all three suspects remained listed in court documents as aggravated battery.

The Doniphan County Attorney’s Office is expected to prosecute.

Services for Pantle will be held October 3 at Atchison’s Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home.

(KNZA)--A Willis man will stand trial on a charge of rape.

Following a preliminary hearing Wednesday, Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said a judge found probable cause that 20-year-old A.J. Lay committed the offense and bound him over to Brown County District Court.

Hill said that came after the presentation of evidence including testimony of the victim, a detective with the Hiawatha Police Department and digital forensic evidence from cellular phones.

Arraignment was set for October 28.
 
Lay was charged in January following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department.

He was also bound over on a felony count of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement in a separate case stemming from a high speed chase on December 28, 2018 in Brown County.

A preliminary hearing on charges in a third case against Lay stemming from the theft of tires and rims from Armstrong Tire, in rural Muscotah, was continued to a later date.

Lay remains in the Brown County Jail, held on a total bond of $115,000.

(KAIR)--A smoldering railcar leads to firefighter response and to the closure of a portion of Atchison’s Main Street late Wednesday morning.

Atchison Fire Chief Ted Graf told MSC News his crews were called to 6th and Main Street shortly after 10:15 and found the railcar, which contained coal, to be smoldering. “Upon arrival, the crews noticed smoke coming from a rail car that was positioned almost directly under the 6th Street viaduct,” Graf said. “The concern could be with radiated heat that could [rise up], potentially causing damage to the viaduct. That is somewhat unlikely, but certainly a possibility that we had to take into account.”

Graf said crews went to work utilizing water to suppress the fire, with Main Street closed for about an hour and a-half as they did so.

The cause has not been determined. “We found some other trash and debris that could have come from overhead, the viaduct overhead, so it’s certainly possible that smoking materials, or something like that, could have possibly been discarded over the bridge. However, we probably will not officially figure out a cause on that, but certainly can’t rule that out.”

With the firefighters successful in extinguishing the fire, Graf said the next step would fall to Union Pacific Railroad to see the railcar removed and its contents safely emptied.

(KAIR)--A 9-year-old child received hospital treatment after the driver of the vehicle they were riding in fell asleep.

That’s according to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, who said the wreck happened early Wednesday morning in the 11000 block of K-7 Highway, located in rural Atchison County.

According to the report, 29-year-old Kevin Berning, of Nortonville, was behind the wheel of the Chevy pickup when he fell asleep. The truck exited the right side of K-7 Highway, and crashed into the ditch.

Berning and the 9-year-old were both taken to the hospital by a passerby.

According to Laurie, the child was treated for neck pain, but Berning was not hurt.

The wreck happened just before 12:30 Wednesday morning.

(KNZA)--An increase in cases of a pneumonia-like illness remains under investigation in Brown County.

That word is delivered in a news release issued Wednesday by the Hiawatha Community Hospital.

The release notes that the Brown County Health Department and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is assisting with the investigation.

According to the release, 61 people have been diagnosed with lower-respiratory infections, including pneumonia and bronchitis, in Brown County. Testing for what the release calls “many viruses and bacteria” has revealed two types, which are rhinovirus and mycoplasma pneumoniae. Both are spread person to person when ill people cough, sneeze, or expose others to their saliva and mucus. Examples noted in the release about how they are spread include shaking hands with someone and touching your eyes, mouth, or nose, or sharing water bottles among a sports team.

Rhinovirus is caused by a virus and is the most common cause of the common cold. Symptoms of rhinovirus are usually minor, including sneezing, sore throat, coughing, and sometimes a fever. Most people feel better within 7 to 10 days, but some people, especially those with weakened immune systems or asthma, may become sicker and get bronchitis or pneumonia. People can get sick with rhinovirus year-round but is more common in the fall and spring.

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a type of bacteria that can cause different kinds of illnesses but people most often get sick with bronchitis and pneumonia. The time it takes between breathing in the bacteria and having symptoms can be between 1 and 4 weeks. Symptoms appear and get worse over a period of weeks, and usually include sore throat, being tired, fever, headache, and a slowly worsening cough that can last for weeks or months. Pneumonia caused by M. pneumoniae is usually mild, but more serious pneumonia can develop. M. pneumoniae infection is most common in young adults and school-aged children. Infections are commonly spread among families and people who attend or work in crowded settings, like a school. Illness from M. pneumoniae can occur at any time during the year but may happen more often in summer and early fall.

The release encourages anyone with a fever to stay home until fever-free for 24-hours without the use of fever-reducing medicine. Those with a fever of 100.4 or greater for three days with a cough should seek medical attention.

According to the release, the best way to prevent the spread of germs, including rhinovirus and Mycoplasma pneumoniae is to:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. After using the tissue, throw it in the trash and wash your hands.

• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve at the elbow if you do not have a tissue. Do not cough into your hands.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.

• Do not touch your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may have germs on them.

• Stay away from others who are sick or when you are sick.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha firefighters will be getting new bunker gear.

On the recommendation of Fire Chief Ryan Shockley, the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved the purchase of 10 sets of bunker gear with winter liner along with light rescue gear and helmets.

The gear will be purchased from 1st Due Emergency Response Solutions, of Bartlett, Kansas, for a total cost of $29,822.

Bids were received from two companies.

The new gear is expected to arrive before the end of the year.

In other business, Hiawatha Police Captain Dennis Entrikin introduced new full-time officer Dugan Shoemaker to commissioners.

Shoemaker, who brings with him six years of law enforcement experience, began work Monday.

He grew up in the local area.  Shoemaker and his wife, Stacy, have a 9-year-old daughter and are expecting another daughter in December.  

Commissioners approved the hiring of Shoemaker at their September 16 meeting at a salary of $17.50 an hour.  
 

(KNZA)--Construction work is set to begin Thursday on Holton Community Hospital’s $14.6 million expansion and renovation project.

According to a news release, more than 70 people attended a groundbreaking ceremony held Friday, where Hospital CEO Carrie Saia thanked everyone who made what the release calls a “monumental day” possible. “We would not be here today without the support of our donors, community and staff,” Saia said in the release. “This day is in honor of everyone who has worked diligently over the past year to make this a reality.”

The project will feature a new rural health clinic, expanded emergency department and specialty clinic areas, renovations to the inpatient area, surgery and public restrooms and other public areas, as well as $2.5 million in new equipment.

Saia said they have simply outgrown the space in the current 20 year old hospital, explaining that the project will allow the hospital to expand services and provide additional privacy and safety for their patients and staff.

The project is being funded through a $14.6 million USDA Rural Development loan.

Nearly $2.1 million has been raised so far in contributions toward the hospital’s expansion. More than $300,000 was raised through Kansas Department of Commerce Community Services Tax Credit program but the largest portion came from the hospital’s year-long Embrace the Future capital campaign in which employees and community members donated or pledged more than $1.4 million toward the project. The J.E. and L.E Mabee Foundation also awarded the HCH Foundation a $400,000 challenge grant.

Bern-based AHRS Construction has been given a 16-month window to complete construction.

(KAIR)--The Missouri River is expected to crest under major flood stage at locations across the local region this week.

That’s according to the forecast from the National Weather Service.

The river, at Atchison, is predicted to climb to 26.8 feet early Friday morning, about 3-feet below the major flood stage of 30 feet.

In Elwood, the river stage is forecast to reach 24.9 feet Thursday evening, about 2-feet below major flood stage.

In Rulo, Nebraska, where major flood stage is 26 feet, the Missouri River is forecast to reach 23-feet Friday morning.

The Missouri River level has been rising ever since the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers increased releases from Gavins Point Dam from 70,000 cubic feet per second to 80,000.

The Corps recently increased releases after extreme rain in the upper Missouri River basin filled the six reservoirs upstream on the Missouri.

The river flooding continues to impact local area motorists through road closings.

U.S. Highway 59, east of Atchison, Kansas, in Buchanan County, Missouri, remains closed due to water over the roadway.

A similar situation also remains in Doniphan County, where K-7 Highway, north of White Cloud, remains closed.

(KAIR)--Not guilty is the plea entered by a Leavenworth woman accused of the death of her son.

The Leavenworth Times reports 31-year-old Catherine Smith pleaded not guilty to the charge of second-degree murder Monday in Leavenworth County District Court.

A trial is now scheduled for January 21.

Smith is charged with reckless second-degree murder stemming from the death of her 19-month-old son in November, 2018.

Authorities don’t believe Smith intentionally killed the child, whose death occurred after Smith allegedly left him in a room where the temperature climbed to more than 90 degrees

Smith is currently free on a bond of $25,000.

(KNZA)--A Topeka man convicted in Jackson County of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child has been sentenced to more than 2 ½ years in prison.

29-year-old Jamie Woltje was handed the sentence Friday in Jackson County District Court.

After serving his prison sentence, Woltje will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life and be placed on lifetime post-release supervision.

He pleaded no contest to the reduce charge in August as part of a plea agreement.

Woltje was original charged with two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy and one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

He was arrested in July 2018 following an investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department into alleged sex crimes involving a child under 14 occurring in March 2015 in the city of Holton.
 

(KLZA)-- The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has announced the availability of more than $4-million to fund conservation easements in Nebraska counties damaged by flooding and other natural disasters.

Funds are available through the floodplain easement component of Emergency Watershed Protection Program – Floodplain Easements. Applications will be accepted through October 31. 

Eligible applicants voluntarily agree to sell a permanent conservation easement to the United States through NRCS.  Compensation is based on the value of the easement as determined by an appraisal or market analysis.  The easements may occur on private agricultural land damaged by flooding an natural disasters.  NRCS will work to restore the easement to its natural floodplain condition. 

Nebraska landowners are encouraged to contact their local NRCS field offices to apply or learn more about the floodplain easement opportunities.  

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has agreed to provide funding toward the replacement of the Horton Civic Center roof.

Plans are to seek a $90,000 Heritage Trust Fund grant through the Kansas Historical Society for the project.  The grant requires a 20 percent local match.

Horton City Administrator John Calhoon and Mayor Bryan Stirton meet with the commission Monday to request the county split the match with the city.

The Commission voted to provide up to $12,000, contingent upon approval of the grant and other funds being raised.

Plans are to replace the current shingles with a metal roof.   The current roof is more than 20 years ago.

Three bids were received for the project.  Selected was Lanter SPS Roofing Systems, of Hiawatha, with a bid for $119,750.  

County Commission Chairman Keith Olsen is preparing the grant application, which is due by November 1.

Also an application has been submitted to place the Civic Center building on the Historic Register of Kansas Places.

The building was constructed by the WPA in 1937-39.  

It is primarily used for agricultural activities—including the Brown County Fair and Better Beef Days.

(KAIR)---A resurfacing project on U.S. Highway  59 in southern Buchanan County, Missouri has been delayed.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has contracted with Herzog Contracting Corporation to resurface just over 13 miles of U.S. 59 from Route 752 in St. Joseph to just north of Route 45. Crews will mill off the old surface and then lay down new asphalt through this area.

According to a news release from MODOT, the contractor was to begin work October 2nd, but has postponed plans. 

A new start date has not been set.

(KLZA)-- A Mound City woman died from injuries received n a single vehicle wreck Friday afternoon near Maitland, in Nodaway County. 

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports 54-year-old Twyla Gorman was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after the 4:45 p.m. wreck. 

The report indicates Gorman was traveling west on Route A a half-mile east of Maitland when her pickup crossed the center line, traveled off the south side of the roadway, struck a guard rail, continued westbound and struck a concrete bridge rail before coming to rest.  

Gorman was not wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck according to the report.  

(KLZA)-- Missouri Governor Mike Parson is scheduled to tour flood damaged areas in northwest Missouri Tuesday afternoon.

Following a morning speech the Governor is scheduled to travel to Rock Port to tour the flood damaged areas.

The Governor is to arrive at Dusty Trails and then take a tour. Governor Parson is expected to make comments following the tour which is scheduled to end by 2:30.

The current flooding is the third round for the area this year and Highway 136 from Rock Port west to the Missouri River Bridge at Brownville as been closed due to high water and damage to the road since March.