(KAIR)--A Kansas City, Kansas-based chemical company has pleaded to charges in connection with a toxic chlorine cloud that formed over Atchison in 2016.

According to a news release from the office of U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister, Harcros Chemicals, Inc. on Friday entered a guilty plea to negligently violating the Federal Clean Air Act.

According to the plea agreement, the company is expected to pay a $1 million fine, the same amount that co-defendant, Atchison-based MGP Ingredients, is expected to pay. MGP pleaded guilty in November.

In the plea from Harcros, the company admitted that a greenish-yellow chlorine gas cloud formed on October 21, 2016 when 4,000 gallons of sulfuric acid were mistakenly combined with 5,800 gallons of sodium hypochlorite. The toxic cloud led Atchison County Emergency Management officials to order Atchison residents to shelter in place, while evacuation was ordered for some areas.

Approximately 140 people, including members of the public, first responders, and employees of MGP and Harcros, sought medical attention.

Sentencing for Harcros is scheduled for May 27.

According to the release, the company could be sentenced to probation for up to five years.

(KAIR)--A Friday morning, Atchison County rollover wreck sent a Troy woman to the hospital.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 61-year-old Dennise Turpin was southbound on U.S. Highway 73, 10 miles south of Atchison, when she lost control of her car due to ice on the roadway. Her car went onto the right shoulder, then over-corrected into the east ditch where it rolled over multiple times.

Turpin was transported to the Atchison Hospital for the treatment of what the report calls a "suspected minor injury."

According to the KHP, Turpin was wearing a seat belt when the wreck happened shortly before 7:00 Friday morning.

(KAIR)--Following a weather-related delay, work is now set to progress on the removal of a local-area Missouri interstate overpass that will impact motorists.

According to a release from the Missouri Department of Transportation, I-29, between Faucett and Dearborn, will be closed for 24-hours beginning at 10:00 tonight. That’s due to safety concerns for motorists and crew members alike due to the demolition of the existing overpass on Route 116. Traffic on I-29, in the impacted area, will be halted in both directions during the 24-hour period. Alternate routes will have to be used during the closure, including U.S. Route 36 to I-35. Heavy congestion is expected and delays along the marked detour routes are projected to be significant.

Clarkson Construction Company is the contractor for the project, which will be conducted in several stages.

(KAIR)--What to do with Morrow Park?

That matter will be discussed when the Atchison City Commission meets Monday.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, the discussion, pertaining to whether or not the City will retain Morrow Park as a locally taxpayer-funded and supported recreation area, comes as the City continues to work toward the on-going goal of “right-sizing” city parks. That’s due to the City currently maintaining what the release calls “an abundance of green space” said to be “about five times as much as the average community the same size as Atchison.”

The City, in conjunction with the Parks and Recreation Board, has, over the years, discussed the possibility of releasing the south side park from its ownership.

The release notes that the City has owned and maintained the park since it was donated to the City in 1963.

It served as a youth baseball field until the construction of the local sports complex. It also once housed a controversial skateboard area until that was closed by the City.

More recently, a portion of the park has been used as a community garden.

According to the release, Morrow Park’s future will only be a matter of discussion Monday, with action on the issue not expected until later in February.

Monday’s meeting will begin at 4:30 at Atchison City Hall.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has approved a contract and commitment of county funds for a bridge replacement project.

The Commission Monday approved awarding the contract for the replacement of a bridge over Muddy Creek on the Brown-Nemaha County line, northeast of Wetmore, to Ebert Construction, of Wamego, in the amount of nearly $556,000 ( $555,571)

The Kansas Department of Transportation approved the bid January 15. 

Federal funds through KDOT will pay for 80 percent of the construction costs.

The county's share of the project cost will be $123,000, which will be split with Nemaha County.

Construction is expected to begin this spring.

(KMZA)--The next superintendent for Marysville public schools could be named next week.

The USD 364 Board of Education this week interviewed four finalists for the position.

The candidates toured the school buildings and met with administrators, teachers, students and community members the day of their interviews. Each candidate had interviews with the school board to wrap up their day.

The finalists include:

* Jim Howard, current superintendent/Pre-K-6 grade principal at Hoxie USD 412.

*Melissa Kennedy, current grade school principal at Buhler USD 313. Prior to that she served as curriculum director for Vermillion USD 380.

*Tavis Desormiers, current superintendent of Wakeeney USD 208.

*Michael Couch, current superintendent of Republic County Schools USD 109 in Belleville.

Denise Guy is serving as interim superintendent this school year.

The new superintendent would begin work in July.

(KNZA)--The Horton Civic Center will be considered for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places.

It is among 10 properties to be considered for nomination by the Kansas Historic Sites Board of Review during their quarterly meeting Saturday in Topeka.

The building, located at the Brown County Fairgrounds in Horton, was constructed by the WPA between 1937-1939.

It's currently primarily used for agricultural activities—including the Brown County Fair and Better Beef Days.

Brown County Commissioner Keith Olsen prepared the nomination application and will appear before the board.

After the nomination is reviewed by the state board, certifying recommendations and the nomination itself will be submitted to the National Park Service in Washington D.C. where it will undergo additional review. A determination is usually made public within 45 days.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation's historic places worthy of preservation.

(KLZA)-- A power outage planned for Saturday morning in Falls City has been canceled. 

Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring told MSC News Thursday that contractor Probst Electric had completed the work Wednesday on the ring bus circuits while the lines were hot.

The power outage had been planned for a 30 minute period beginning at 7:00 A.M. 

Luhring did say that Falls City Utility customers between the east edge of Falls City and Rulo may experience a power outage Saturday afternoon between 1and 4:00 P.M.  while new wires are placed across Highway 159  and a new corner pole is being set.

(KMZA)--Authorities have identified the man killed last week following an explosion and fire at a home in the Marshall County community of Vermillion.

Marshall County Sheriff Dan Hargrave Thursday identified the victim as 83-year-old Don McLaughlin.

Emergency crews were called to his home in the 300 block of East 5th Street around 7:15 last Friday morning after several 911 calls reported an explosion . When emergency personnel arrived, they found the home fully engulfed in flames.

The fire was brought under control about three hours later. A search of the burned-out home then led to the discovery of McLaughlin's body.

The body was sent for an autopsy.

Hargrave said the explosion and fire remains under investigation by the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office.

A funeral service for McLaughlin will be held Monday morning at 10:00 at the Padden Funeral Chapel in Frankfort. Burial will follow at the Vermillion City Cemetery.

(KLZA)-- Following a discussion about Mayoral appointments for various positions and offices Monday night,  the Pawnee City Council approved several appointments but still have questions on the position of  City Attorney. 

Previously the appointments were made without a vote of the Council. Following discussion Monday evening, the Council approved the reappointment of Tammy Curtis as City Clerk and Evan Wickersham of JEO  Engineers as Street Superintendent and JEO Consulting as the Engineering firm for City streets.

After discussion about the City Attorney position, Betsy Bloss-Ferebee was appointed Interim City Attorney. Bloss-Ferebee worked with the Council several years ago when she worked with the Stehlik Law Firm.

Another person had expressed interest in the position.  The Council will discuss the topic again at the next Council meeting.   
 

(KNZA)--The former director of Jackson County's Banner Creek Reservoir, accused of stealing county property, will have to serve 30 days in jail as part of the terms of his probation on theft charges.

The Holton Recorder reports 64-year-old John Kennedy enters pleas last week in Jackson County District Court to two counts of misdemeanor theft. In exchange for the plea, a felony count of burglary was dismissed.

He was placed on one year probation and fined $2,500. In addition to the 30-day jail sanction, Kennedy was ordered to perform 100 hours of community service and prepare a public apology to the Jackson County Commission.

Kennedy was terminated by the Commission in February of last year.  He had served as reservoir director since April 2015.

Authorities say Kennedy broke into the Banner Creek Reservoir shop following his termination and stole gas cans and cash.

He was arrested March 28 on a district court warrant following an investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Department.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Commissioners approved a contract to have United HealthCare serve as the health insurance carrier for the time period of March 1, 2020 through February 28, 2021 when they met Tuesday. 

The new policy carries a14.9 percent increase in premiums, but was the least costly of the options available. 

The County will pay $25,520 per month for the 24 employees on the healthcare plan.  The total monthly premiums will be $32,853.  

Pawnee County pays 100 percent of a single employee's healthcare coverage.  If the employee ads their children and family, the County pays 66 percent of the premium with the employee responsible for the remainder.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners voted Tuesday to adopt a resolution to call and refund the series 2015 limited tax obligation bonds sold to finance the Richardson  County Law Enforcement Center. 

Andrew Forney, Vice-President of D.A. Davison and Company reviewed the benefits of refinancing the bond with Board members David Sickel, John Caverzagie and Terry Frank.

The County originally sold just over three-million dollars in bonds with an interest rate of 2.97 percent. By recalling the original bond series,  the estimated savings will be in the neighborhood of $600-thousand depending on the interest rate at the time of the sale of the new bonds.  

It is anticipated the new bond interest rate will be around 1.6 percent.

By refinancing the bonds and paying down a significant portion of the principal, Richardson County will also be able to  pay off the bonds a year earlier, in 2029.

(KAIR)--An Atchison County student has been named as a candidate in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

According to a news release, Sarah Kimmi, of Lancaster, a graduating senior at the Atchison County Community High School, is one of more than 4,500 candidates who are selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate high school this year.

Kimmi is the daughter of Gene and Angie Kimmi.

Other local area students have also been named as candidates, including Riley Buss, of Grantville, who attends Jefferson West High School; Sidney Fleek, of Wathena, a senior at Troy High School, and Hunter Steinlage, of Seneca, who attends Nemaha Valley.

Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.

All Scholars are invited to Washington, DC in June for the National Recognition Program.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments.

A panel of educators will review the submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists in early April.

According to the release, the Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

(KAIR)--An Atchison County student has been named as a candidate in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

According to a news release, Sarah Kimmi, of Lancaster, a graduating senior at the Atchison County Community High School, is one of more than 4,500 candidates who are selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate high school this year.

Kimmi is the daughter of Gene and Angie Kimmi.

Other local area students have also been named as candidates, including Riley Buss, of Grantville, who attends Jefferson West High School; Sidney Fleek, of Wathena, a senior at Troy High School, and Hunter Steinlage, of Seneca, who attends Nemaha Valley.

Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.

All Scholars are invited to Washington, DC in June for the National Recognition Program.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments.

A panel of educators will review the submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists in early April.

According to the release, the Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

(KAIR)--An Atchison County student has been named as a candidate in the 2020 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

According to a news release, Sarah Kimmi, of Lancaster, a graduating senior at the Atchison County Community High School, is one of more than 4,500 candidates who are selected from nearly 3.6 million students expected to graduate high school this year.

Kimmi is the daughter of Gene and Angie Kimmi.

Other local area students have also been named as candidates, including Riley Buss, of Grantville, who attends Jefferson West High School; Sidney Fleek, of Wathena, a senior at Troy High School, and Hunter Steinlage, of Seneca, who attends Nemaha Valley.

Scholars are selected on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities.

Annually, up to 161 U.S. Presidential Scholars are chosen from among that year’s senior class, representing excellence in education and the promise of greatness in America’s youth.

All Scholars are invited to Washington, DC in June for the National Recognition Program.

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964 by Executive Order of the President to recognize some of the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors for their accomplishments.

A panel of educators will review the submissions and select approximately 600 semifinalists in early April.

According to the release, the Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of up to 32 eminent citizens appointed by the President, will select the finalists, and the U.S. Department of Education will announce the Scholars in May.

(KNZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has approved the purchase of five 800-megahertz handheld radios for the county's rural fire departments.

At the request of county Emergency Preparedness Director Russel Lierz, the Commission Monday approved the purchase of the radios from Haug Communications in Seneca.

Four used radios will be purchased for $525 each and one new radio at an unknown cost.

Funding for the purchase will come from the Broxterman EMT Fund.

In other business, county residents Dave and Jenny Pfrang met with the Commission to discuss issues they have with the current haul route for the construction of the Soldier Creek Windfarm in southern Nemaha County.

The Pfrangs indicated that one of their main issues is the current location of the laydown yard for the project.

Commissioners advised the Pfrangs that they will speak to NextEra Energy Resources about possibly relocating the laydown yard.

(KNZA)--The Purple Heart of a Sabetha man killed in action during World War II was presented to members of Sabetha VFW Post 7285 Monday evening.

Major Zachariah Fike, founder of Vermont-based Purple Hearts Reunited, presented the Purple Heart medal and certificate for Private Francis Long.

It was among four presentations held by the organzation in Kansas and Missouri Monday through Wednesday.

Long enlisted in the U.S. Army in June 1944. He was killed in action during World War II on March 2, 1945 on Lubang Island in the Philippines.

More than three years after his death, his remains were returned to the United States and he was buried at the Sabetha Cemetery. His parents, Ray and Lela Long, are buried next to him.

Founded in 2012, Purple Hearts Reunited returns lost, stolen or misplaced medals of valor to veterans or their families in order to honor their sacrifice to the nation. In circumstances where the original recipient has died and no descendants can be located, the non-profit organization arranges to donate awards to suitable organizations.

To date, the organization has returned more than 800 lost medals.

(KNZA)--A Brown County traffic stop leads to the arrest of an Oneida man on drug charges.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant said in a news release that 35-year-old Brent Rezabec was arrested Tuesday for possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Rezabec was also arrested on a Hiawatha failure to appear warrant, driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked and an ignition interlock violation.  In addition, he was charged with trafficking contraband in to a correctional facility.

Merchant said the sheriff's department K-9, Ari, is credited with alerting deputies that drugs were present in the vehicle.

A passenger in his vehicle, 36-year-old Oneida resident Sissy Wilson, was arrested on a Sabetha failure to appear warrant.

The Hiawatha Police Department assisted.

The pair were booked into the Brown County Jail. Rezabec remains held on a total bond of $25,250. Wilson is currently free after posting a $1,500 bond.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - Republicans have pushed a proposed anti-abortion amendment to the Kansas Constitution through the state Senate.

The vote Wednesday came even as abortion rights advocates tried to undercut potential support for the measure by arguing that it would lead to a ban on most abortions like a measure being pursued in Tennessee.

The Kansas proposal is aimed at overturning a state Supreme Court decision last year protecting abortion rights and is modeled on a change Tennessee voters approved in their state's constitution in 2014.

The Senate's vote was 28-12, giving supporters one vote more than the two-thirds majority necessary. It goes to the House.

(KLZA)-- A Springfield, Missouri man suffered serious injuries in a one vehicle wreck shortly before 7 o'clock Wednesday morning. 

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports 38-year-old Daniel Covaci was northbound on Interstate 29 approximately two miles south of Corning when  he lost control  of his Chevy pickup on the ice covered roadway. 

The pickup went down and embankment impacting the ground and a log.

Covaci was transported by the Atchison/Holt Ambulance to the Fairfax Community Hospital.  He was wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck. 

(KLZA)-- Another power outage is planned in Falls City.  

The city has announced the outage will take place Saturday morning from 7 to 7:30.

Probst Electric has requested the outage in order to work on the north and south bus circuits. 

This Saturday's outage will be much shorter than an outage that took place January 9 for needed repairs.

This time, everyone that had power during the January 9th outage will be without power for 30 minutes.

If you need further information you can contact Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring at 402-245-2724.  

(KLZA)-- Opening arguments began Tuesday in Beatrice in the murder trial of 38-year-old Joshua Keadle.

Keadle is accused of killing 19-year-old Tyler “Ty”  Thomas in December, 2010. Both were students at Peru State College at the time. 

Keadle's attorney told the jury there was no DNA evidence linking Thomas to Keadle.  He said there is no body,  and no way to determine with scientific certainty, how she died, if she is dead.

Prosecutors say investigators found a series of smooth marks, suspected drag marks.  Assistant Attorney General Doug Warner, serving as prosecutor said Thomas was killed at the river and dumped in the river.  

Thomas was declared legally dead in 2013. Her body has never been found.

(KNZA)--A local judge has been appointed to sit with the Kansas Supreme Court.

According to a news release from the Kansas Judicial Center, District Judge John Weingart of the 22nd Judicial District will hear oral arguments on the court's docket Thursday ( January 30).

After hearing the arguments, Weingart will join Supreme Court justices in their deliberations and decision drafting.

The release said Weingart will hear arguments in the appeal of a Topeka teen convicted and sentenced to life in prison for his role in a fatal 2016 drive by shooting in Topeka. Shawn Pattillo, who was 16 at the time of the crime, was prosecuted as an adult.

Weingart has been a district judge since 2001. The 22nd Judicial District is composed of Brown, Doniphan, Marshall and Nemaha Counties.

Before being elected a judge, he had a private law practice in Hiawatha for 24 years.

Weingart said “ it is indeed an honor and privilege to serve the Supreme Court.”

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph, Missouri man convicted of the 2018 shooting death of a former Troy man and wounding of another man has learned his fate.

The St. Joseph News Press reports 37-year-old Jessie Lee Nelson was sentenced Monday in Buchanan County Circuit Court to two life sentences, plus an additional 100 years in prison.

A jury found him guilty in November of first-degree murder, first-degree assault and two counts of armed criminal action.

Nelson was convicted of killing 29-year-old Mack Jenkins and seriously wounding 23-year-old Deon Hernandez on August 6, 2018. The shooting left Hernandez paralyzed.

Witnesses told police they saw Nelson fire shots into a vehicle containing the two men after it crashed just north of downtown St. Joseph, and then drive away.

(KMZA)--A 5th grader at Nemaha Central Elementary School won the Nemaha County Spelling Bee Saturday morning in Seneca.

Tyler Nolte captured 1st place by correctly spelling the word " pilferer."

Taking second place was Parker Koch, a 7th grader at Centralia Schools.

Kylan Edelman, a 7th grader at Sabetha Middle School, took 3rd place.

Nolte will now represent Nemaha County at the state spelling bee sponsored by the Kansas Press Association on March 21 at Newman University in Wichita

The Nemaha County Spelling Bee was sponsored by the Alpha Kappa Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International.

(KLZA)-- With the filing deadline approaching for incumbents in Nebraska,  several candidates have recently filed to seek local positions.  

Larry Stauffer of Humboldt has filed for the Ward I Council position up for election in Humboldt.  Stauffer is completing a term following his appointment to the Council.  

Joshua Nincehelser has filed for a seat on the Village Board of Dawson.  Nincehelser is not an incumbent.  

Jim Gerweck has filed for reelection to the District 10 seat on the Nemaha Natural Resources Board of Directors.

All of the positions are for a 4-year period and are non-partisan elections. 

Filing for a six year term to the Airport Authority if Falls City was David Mullins.  

The deadline for incumbents to file for reelection, or election to another office is February 18.  The n on-incumbent filing deadline is March 2nd.  

(KLZA)-- With the filing deadline approaching for incumbents in Nebraska,  several candidates have recently filed to seek local positions.  

Larry Stauffer of Humboldt has filed for the Ward I Council position up for election in Humboldt.  Stauffer is completing a term following his appointment to the Council.  

Joshua Nincehelser has filed for a seat on the Village Board of Dawson.  Nincehelser is not an incumbent.  

Jim Gerweck has filed for reelection to the District 10 seat on the Nemaha Natural Resources Board of Directors.

All of the positions are for a 4-year period and are non-partisan elections. 

Filing for a six year term to the Airport Authority if Falls City was David Mullins.  

The deadline for incumbents to file for reelection, or election to another office is February 18.  The n on-incumbent filing deadline is March 2nd.  

(KLZA)-- Agricultural producers are reminded to sign up now for the Agriculture Risk Coverage and Price loss Coverage programs.

March 16, 2020 is the deadline to choose between the ARC or PLC and complete enrollment.     

The programs provide financial protections to farmers from substantial drops in crop prices or the revenues and are vital economic safety nets for most farms.  

To schedule an appointment, contact your local FSA county office.

(KAIR)--A former Jackson County special prosecutor is facing ethics charges, following a recommendation from a panel of Kansas attorneys.

According to a report from the Topeka Capital-Journal, attorney Jacqie Spradling faces the charges for allegedly misleading the jury that found a Holton man guilty of sex crimes, which were thrown out on appeal.

Jacob Ewing was convicted in 2017 on charges including rape, aggravated criminal sodomy, and battery. The Kansas Court of appeals, when reversing his convictions last year, made note of Spradling’s conduct.

According to the newspaper, a public hearing before a separate committee will be held to develop a recommendation for the Kansas Supreme Court about whether or how Spradling would be sanctioned. Potential penalties include public censure, license suspension or disbarment.

The complaint against Spradling was filed by Ewing’s mother.

The Court of Appeals said Spradling’s misstatement of evidence during the closing argument of Ewing’s trial inflamed “passions and prejudices of the jury.” The appeals court said “cumulative effect of the errors committed by the district court and the prosecutor denied Ewing his constitutional right to a fair trial.”

Spradling currently works as Bourbon County Attorney in Fort Scott.

(KAIR)--An investigation is underway, focused on what authorities say was an attempted break-in at an Effingham residence.

According to a release from Atchison County Undersheriff Toby Smith, the resident of 8909 274th Road reported the crime late Friday night. That followed her discovery that someone had entered her unlocked garage, and then attempted to enter the residence through a garage access door.

Although entry was not successful, the door and lock were damaged when an attempt was made to pry it open. That damage is estimated at around $250.

Nothing was taken from the home, and there are not yet any suspects.

The investigation is continuing.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is facing numerous charges, including intent to distribute drugs, following a Friday evening traffic stop.

According to a report from Atchison County Undersheriff Toby Smith, 35-year-old Marquette Jones was arrested for distribution of marijuana, distribution of opiates/opium/narcotics, criminal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, no drug tax stamp, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of stolen property.

Jones was also issued citations for operating a motor vehicle without a valid drivers license and driving without headlights when required.

According to the report, Jones’ arrest followed a traffic stop, around 7:30 Friday evening, near South 4th Street and U.S. Highway 59, in Atchison, for a traffic infraction.

A search of Jones’ vehicle was made, with deputies discovering what’s alleged to be marijuana, drug paraphernalia, a stolen handgun, prescription medication, and a large sum of cash.

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

According to Atchison County Jail records, Jones was released from custody Sunday afternoon on a $75,000 bond.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Clerk's office has announced a new filing for this fall's election.

Betty " BJ" Spiker has filed for the county Treasurer position.  Spiker is currently a deputy in the Treasurer's Office.

County Treasurer Cheryl Lippold has announced she plans to retire when her term ends in October of next year and will not seek re-election.

Candidates have until noon, June 1 to file at the Brown County Clerk's Office.

The primary election is August 4 and the general election is November 3rd

(KNZA)--The Brown County Courthouse was back open Monday after temporary sewer repairs were made. 

The Courthouse was closed Friday after a sewage backup was discovered in the basement Thursday afternoon.

Courthouse custodian Ben Walker told County Commissioners on Monday that a plumber determined there was blockage at the manhole on the south side of the courthouse 

Walker said a Hiawatha city crew jetted the city side and indicated the blockage was on the county side.

He said its believed the line has collasped under the sidewalk and will need to replaced this spring.

In 2017, the sewer line was replaced from the courthouse to the sidewalk.

(KMZA)--The former Marshall County Clerk has been sentenced to more than two   years in prison for felony misuse of public funds.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, in a news release, said District Judge John Weingart Monday sentenced 44-year-old Sonya Stohs, of Marysville, to 32 months in prison.

The prison sentence is to be followed by 24 months post-release supervision.

In addition, Stohs was ordered to pay $372,003 in restitution to Marshall County.

Stohs pleaded guilty to the charge in November.

The charge stemmed from an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Secret Service that showed between May 2013 and April 2019, Stohs used funds belonging to Marshall County to pay for various personal items.

The case was prosecuted by the Kansas Attorney General's Office.

(KLZA)-- During last weeks City Council meeting in Falls City, EDGE Executive Director Beckie  Cromer  presented the organizations quarterly report. 

During the fourth quarter of 2019 a meeting was held with Nebraska First District Senator Julie Slama, Omaha Public Power District,  the Nebraska Municipal Power Pool,  City of Falls City representatives and EDGE representatives to discuss new information concerning electrical load forecast models submitted by OPPD.

Work continues by EDGE to get OPPD to invest in a transmission line to make more power available to Falls City for industries.  

Cromer reported that EDGE has awarded a $15-thousand grant to Fast Global Solutions to help with the purchase of a new laser. The  new laser comes with a $115-thousand price tag and is in operation.  

It was also noted that Falls City is among the finalists for a company looking for a location.  A site visit with the Nebraska Department of Economic Development was conducted in December.  A final location for the project has not  yet been selected.

Cromer noted EDGE has received a Nebraska Investment Finance Authority Housing Study Grant  in an amount of $12-thousand.  Marvin Plan Consultants has been selected to conduct the study which is anticipated to take approximately eight months to complete.   

The report also indicates the Champions Crossing development management team has hired an engineering firm, Kirkham Michel, to oversee infrastructure improvements for quality and testing.

Rieschick Drilling has been selected for the water and sewer line installation.  Materials have been ordered and the work will begin when the weather allows. 

(KLZA)-- No movement in the December unemployment figure in Nebraska.

For the sixth consecutive month the jobless rate remained at 3.1 percent.

In Southeast Nebraska the unemployment figures changed slightly with variations of less than half a percentage point. 

Nemaha County, Nebraska had the highest unemployment rate in the area at 3.4 percent, which was down a tenth of a point. 

Pawnee County has the best area unemployment rate for December at 2.1 percent, a dip of four-tenths. 

In Richardson County the unemployment rate was down a tenth to 2.6 percent.  

Unemployment figures went up two-tenths in both Johnson and Gage counties.  In Johnson County the December rate was 3.2 percent and in Gage County the rate was up to 3.1 percent. 

Nationally in December the unemployment rate was 3.5 percent,  unchanged from November and lower than the December 2018 rate of 3.9 percent.  

(KNZA)--The arraignment for a Holton man accused of fatally shooting his father in 2018 has been continued.

Jackson County Attorney Shawna Miller told MSC News the arraignment for 50-year-old Derrick Bohnenkemper was continued Friday in Jackson County District Court to March 13. Miller said they are still waiting on a report from a defense expert.

Bohnenkemper is charged with one count of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted capital murder and one count of aggravated assault.

He is accused of fatally shooting his 73-year-old father, Gaylen Bohnenkemper, on September 18, 2018.

The elder Bohnenkemper was found inside a residence north of Holton after his son surrendered to authorities following a more than five hour armed standoff, during which shots were fired at officers.

Bohnenkemper also faces two counts of assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of assault in a separate case stemming from a November 6, 2018 incident in the Jackson County Jail.

(KAIR)--An Atchison business has been seized for non-payment of taxes.

That’s apparent due to the pink “seized” signs, used by the Kansas Department of Revenue when a seizure is made, posted to the windows of JW’s Boys Barbecue, located at 1400 U.S. Highway 59, in Atchison.

An early Monday afternoon post to the restaurant’s Facebook page acknowledges the closure, saying the restaurant is closed temporarily, and hopes to reopen within a day or so. The seizure itself is not mentioned. However, in a Facebook message, following an inquiry by MSC News, the business acknowledged the situation, but did not offer further comment. 

According to a release from the KDOR, the seizure comes as the business owes more than $10,000 in sales and withholding taxes.

KDOR agents were accompanied by Atchison Police Monday to execute tax warrants and to seize the assets of the business, including all known bank accounts, on-site cash, business inventory, as well as personal property belonging to the owner.

According to the release, "KDOR’s policy and practice is to work with taxpayers in delinquent status to voluntarily enter into repayment agreements. It is only after these efforts and multiple failed collection attempts that the Department is forced to execute a tax warrant, utilizing such actions as bank levies, till taps, and ultimately asset seizure to ensure compliance with the law."

The release also notes that "all seized assets will be sold at public auction and the proceeds will pay for the delinquent taxes if an agreement is not reached."

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County  Sheriff's Office is investigating a burglary that occurred Saturday night at the North Fork One Stop convenience store in Humboldt. 

It appears a brick was thrown through the front door to gain access. The report says it appears cigarettes and liquor were targeted in the burglary. 

The Sheriff's Office is reviewing video surveillance footage and collected shoe prints and blood as part of the ongoing investigation.

Anyone that may have noticed anything suspicious is asked to contact the Richardson County Sheriff's Department at 402-245-2479. 

(KLZA)-- A teenager from Humboldt reported missing Sunday evening has been found and is safe. 

The boy was reported missing Sunday and the Richardson County Sheriff's Office asked for the public's assistance in determining his whereabouts. 

The boy was found safe early Monday morning.  
 

(KAIR)--The Atchison Animal Clinic is named the Atchison Business of the Year.

That happened Saturday night, during the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce banquet, held at the Atchison Event Center.

Atchison Animal Clinic earned the top honor, which is awarded annually to a Chamber business member that has excelled and continues to make significant contributions to the Atchison area.

The award was one of eight handed out during Saturday evening’s ceremonies.

Also honored were the Chamber Ambassadors of the Year, with that honor presented to Vicki Jones, Pauline Lee, and Phyllis Walton.

The Excellence in Leadership Award, which recognizes a graduate of the Leadership Atchison County program, was earned by Daris Calhoon, while two Entrepreneur of the Year awards were presented. That honor, which recognizes a Chamber member who has achieved success in business and also shown creativity and a spirit of innovation and community involvement went to Chris and Kim Taylor, along with Melinda Pregont.

The Organization of the Year award was given to recent newcomer, the Atchison Area Community Foundation. Among the achievements recognized by the organization, which began last year, was its strong growth in supporting all non-profits, with 13 funds in place, along with assets over $260,000.

The Tourism Award, given to a business or individual whose contributions have stimulated local tourism, was presented to Presley Busenbarrick.

The Quality of Life award went to the Fox Theater, and the Team of the Year award was presented to Sleep in Heavenly Peace.

The banquet commemorated 101-years, and was held under the theme, “Remembering the Past to Focus With 20/20 Vision on the Future.”

(KNZA)--A traffic stop in Jackson County Saturday night lead to arrest of a Rossville man on drug charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a news release, said sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop around 9:30 on U.S. 75 Highway near 214th Road, south of Holton.

During the traffic stop, Morse said deputies located illegal drugs.

As a result of the traffic stop, 46-year-old Craig Dodds was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, and no proof of liability insurance.

(KNZA)--Five public meetings are set this week in Doniphan County to discuss the possibility of starting an animal shelter/rescue in the county.

Trina Earl of rural Bendena is one of the organizers of the meetings. Earl told The Kansas Chief the county needs a place to take lost and abandoned animals where they can be cared for and adopted out.

Currently there is no animal shelter or rescue in Doniphan County so good samaritans have either been caring for stray animals themselves or taking them to shelters in neighboring communities.

Organizers emphasize that the idea of starting a shelter/rescue in the county is in its very early stages.

The meetings are scheduled for this ( Monday ) evening at the Elwood Library; Tuesday evening at the Wathena Community Building; Wednesday evening at the Troy 4-H Fairgrounds Building; Thursday evening at the Highland Wellness Center and Friday evening at the Bendena Lutheran Church. All the meetings will begin at 6:30.

Interested residents are invited to attend one of the meetings. Residents are also welcome to bring donations such as dog food, cat food, and old blankets to any of the meetings.

For more information, you can contact Earl by email at trinaearl@icloud.com or by phone at 913-370-3297.

(KNZA)--An investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine in Jackson County leads to the arrest of a Holton man on charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said in a news release that sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop on the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Jordan Tomas Monaghan, in the 300 block of Vermont Street in Holton on Saturday evening.

Monaghan had been driving a 1986 Mazda pickup truck.

Morse said a quantity of methamphetamine was found in his possession.

Monaghan was arrested by Jackson County Sheriff deputies and transported to the Jackson County Jail.

He was booked into jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine, distribution and attempting to distribute methamphetamine, use of communication facility in the commission of a felony drug crime, attempted use of communication facility in the commission of a felony drug crime and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KMZA)--One person was found dead following an explosion and fire early Friday morning at a home in the Marshall County community of Vermillion.

According to the Marshall County Sheriff's Office, emergency crews were called to the home in the 300 block of East 5th Street just after 7:00 after several people called 911 to report an explosion.

When emergency personnel arrived on the scene, they found the home fully engulfed in flames.

The Sheriff's Office says the fire was brought under about three hours later. A search of the burned-out home then led to the discovery of the body.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating cause of the explosion and fire.

Authorities have not released the identity of the victim.

The Sheriff's Office said the body has been sent for an autopsy.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Administrator will be taking on an extra duties and with it will receive a pay increase.

The Seneca City Council Wednesday evening approved an amendment to the contract of City Administrator Matt Roehder adding the position of zoning administrator to his duties.

The city has been without a zoning administrator for a period of time.

With the extra duties, Roehder will receive a pay increase from $68,000 to $70,392 annually. The pay increase is effective February 1.

In other business, the Council approved an increase in the franchise fee charged Kansas Gas Service.

It will increase from 3 percent to 5 percent, which is the same as other franchise fees in the city.

(KAIR)--The planned closure of Interstate 29 for the removal of the bridge over the interstate on Route 116, south of Faucett, Missouri, has been postponed until next weekend due to weather.

According to a release from the Missouri Department of Transportation, Route 116 closed to all traffic Thursday morning for the bridge replacement project. The closure is planned to continue through May 2020.

For the safety of crew members and motorists during the demolition of the old bridge, I-29 will be closed in both directions between Dearborn and Faucett for 24 hours on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1.

The release says the closure will have extreme impacts, both to interstate traffic and along the planned detour route. While MoDOT and the contractor, Clarkson Construction Co., have worked together to make traffic during the closure as safe and efficient as possible, drivers are strongly encouraged to plan ahead and consider an alternate route such as U.S. Route 36 to I-35 during the planned 24-hour closure. Heavy congestion and delays along the detour routes will be significant. Motorists can expect lengthy slowdowns in the area.

During the overall bridge replacement project, there may be additional single-lane closures on I-29 under the bridge, temporary closures to outer roads, and other traffic impacts.

(KNZA)--Three Atchison men, accused of participating in a fatal Doniphan County fight last September, will stand trial.

Following testimony at their preliminary hearing Thursday, a judge found sufficient evidence for 44-year-old Scott Vandeloo, 30-year-old Matthew Scherer and 23-year-old Brian Spilman, Jr. to each be bound over on a charge of second-degree murder.

Arraignment for Spilman and Vandeloo was set for February 5 in Doniphan County District Court. Arraignment for Scherer was scheduled for February 26.

Amended complaints were filed late last month against the trio. All three had originally been charged with aggravated battery.

The charges stem from an early morning, September 22, 2019 fight that authorities say occurred during a party held at 159 Monument Road in rural Doniphan County.

42-year-old Jason Pantle, of Cummings, died September 29 of what investigators called serious head injuries at a Kansas City Hospital.

Spilman remains in the Doniphan County Jail on a $150,000 bond, while Scherer and Vandeloo are currently free on bond.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Community Hospital is moving forward with plans to  refinance $4 million in industrial revenue bonds issued by the city in 2014.

At the request of the hospital, the Hiawatha City Commission Tuesday evening approved a resolution authorizing redemption of the bonds on April 1 when they are subject to call.

Hospital Administrator John Broberg said with an improvement in the hospital's finances, the bond holder is comfortable with the hospital proceeding with the idea.

New bonds will be issued that will retire the debt and provide an additional $2 million for the hospital's capital needs.

Broberg said the payments would be consistant with what they are currently paying.

City Administrator Mike Nichols said the city is simply acting as a conduit because of its bond rating and tax-exempt status.

Nichols and Mayor Bill Collins both stressed the city would not be financially liable.

(KNZA)--A portion of a Brown County road has been closed for a streambank stabilization project.

Brown County Clerk Melissa Gormley said 290th Road has been closed, as of Thursday, from Plum Tree to Nighthawk Roads.

The road will remain closed until further notice.

The streambank stabilization project is set to begin Monday, January 27, weather allowing.

Siebenmorgen Excavating, of rural Robinson, will serve as contractor on the around $83,000 project.

Funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Services Emergency Watershed Protection Program will pay for 75 percent of the project cost. The county will provide a 25 match in the form of in-kind sevices.

The project is scheduled for 30 days.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Public School District has announced the hiring of a new Transportation Director.  

Jordan Stoller of Falls City will begin transitioning into the new position beginning February 3, and will take over responsibility for the district's transportation department on August 1,  when Robert Baker retires after 32 years on the job. 

 Stoller earned as Associates Degree in diesel Technology from Southeast  Community College in 2016 and has been employed by Tri-State Truck & Tractor as a diesel technician since 2016.  He graduated from Falls City High School in 2015.

(KAIR)--Changes are approved for Atchison’s Oak Hill Cemetery. “I’d entertain a motion to adopt ordinance 6625 establishing a method to mitigate hazardous and/or toppled cemetery monuments, in addition to clarifying the regulations of decorating graves at Oak Hill Cemetery,” Mayor Shawn Rizza said, as he called the vote for the change Tuesday.

The vote followed a presentation from Director of Public Works Clinton McNemee, who explained aging gravestones need to be removed as a matter of public safety. “The proposed plan was to come up with an ordinance that would allow us to remove the offending monuments, set them aside for a period of three years, is what this ordinance is proposing. If after three years, no one claims, or resets the monuments on their own, we would be authorized then to dispose of the monuments permanently.”

McNemee explained the monuments would be replaced with metal plaques. “We’re going to put in place small, flush mounted markers...that show the legal descriptions. They won’t have names, or any of those things on there”

Assistant Atchison City Manager Justin Pregont spoke during discussion on the change, saying accidents involving loose headstones can be serious. “For anybody who thinks that these proposed policies are heavy handed, just do some Googling for cemetery accident and I think you’re quickly change your mind that this is the right way to.”

Residents, including Rita Hartman and Joyce Allen, addressed the Commission about the change, with both saying relatives connected to the removed monuments should be contacted by the City.

Pregont said every effort will be made to contact affected relatives. “We’ll do every communication tool at our disposal, we’ll use to try and let folks know.”

The City will also explore how much information can be placed on the plaques that will replace the headstones.

The change was approved unanimously by a vote of the Commission.

(KNZA)--A Wednesday afternoon traffic stop in southern Jackson County lead to the arrest of a Seneca woman on drug charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a news release, said a sheriff's deputy stopped a northbound car near 214th Road south of Holton for a traffic infraction.

A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 responded to the scene. Morse said the K-9 alerted on the vehicle, which resulted in a search of the vehicle.

He said the investigation resulted in locating a quantity of suspected marijuana and methamphetamine.

The driver, identified as 42-year-old Christina Ann Armstrong, was arrested by deputies.

Armstrong was booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of felony possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and felony interference with law enforcement.

(KAIR)--No public voices of opposition, or support, were heard prior to Tuesday’s Atchison City Commission approval of moving forward with the removal of Atchison’s downtown mall.

The 3-1 vote to approve entering into a Kansas Department of Transportation Cost Share Program Grant Award Agreement means the future conversion of the 500 and 600 blocks of Commercial Street from the existing pedestrian mall into what the City calls “a streetscape concept similar to what exists in the 100 through 300 and the 700 and 800 blocks of Commercial Street.”

The project was one of only 22 in the state selected to receive grant funds, with $1.45 million awarded to the City of Atchison, which is 75-percent of the projected $2 million project.

Assistant Atchison City Manager Justin Pregont told the Commission, prior to Tuesday’s vote, that the price tag for the City is projected to be $500,000 or $600,000.

The matter was brought before the Commission following discussions with those who will be affected by the construction, and Pregont explained that the timeline for the work is planned to have the least amount of negative impact on mall-area business owners. “The date that’s in the agreement is June 2020,” Pregont said. “We are obligated to let that project within six-months of June of this year, which means that we could design it really quickly and get going, but it seems like the consensus of the stakeholder group is to take our time, do a thorough job, be communicative and transparent with everyone that’s considered a stakeholder and we’d be looking more at a letting date that’s more in the early October range, maybe even later September. That would allow this City Commission to consider a construction contract maybe in early October. That would lead us to a start date that would absolutely avoid the holiday season, which is one of the biggest, and most important, pieces of feedback we got from the retailers.”

Questions were posed by Commissioners following Pregont’s presentation, including those from Commissioner J. David Ferris, who cast the lone no vote. “The way I stand on the mall is I’ve walked on it for more years than a couple of our Commissioners have been alive and about 90-percent of the staff...even though you can’t change my mind, I think you’ve done some outstanding working putting this together.”

Mayor Shawn Rizza said he believes the move is good for Atchison’s economic future, adding that the City will explore ways to provide financial assistance for businesses impacted by the project. “This is about making Atchison the best option to start a business...we want to make sure we’re keeping it friendly to the ones that we’ve already got.”

According to a City Staff report, allowing thru traffic where the mall now stands “is a better conduit for investment and economic activity than a pedestrian mall given the demographics and relative lack of density in downtown Atchison.”

(KNZA)--Scams continues to circulate around the local area, with Brown County Sheriff John Merchant alerting residents to not provide any financial information to the scammers

Merchant, in a release, said he’s received reports of text messages being sent to cell phones claiming that the recipient’s Amazon purchase has been compromised, and a phone number is provided for the person to call. Merchant says not to call the number, as it’s clearly a scam. Similar emails are also being reported, and Merchant says to ignore, and delete, them.

Another attempt at financial information comes in the form of false calls claiming to originate from the Social Security Office, with the caller claiming the recipient’s social security number has been compromised.

Merchant said that office will never place such phone calls, and no information should be provided.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members denied a request to park a semi-truck and trailer on the street at 817 Stone Street when they met Monday evening. 

Pat Beer made the request to park his rig on the street.  
A city ordinance provides truck routes in the city, but parking of semis and trailers is not allowed. 

Police Chief Duane Armbruster said the ordinance helps protect curbs and the streets in addition to helping avoid traffic congestion.

The  Council felt approving the request would set a precedent leading to others to make the same request. 

Permission for the Falls City Police Department to use Stanton Lake Park for the National Night Out Against Crime on August 4 was approved.  A request for free swimming at the Aquatic Park as part of the event was also approved. 

The Council approved changing the dates of two Council meeting.  Due to Presidents Day,  the Council will meet Tuesday, February 18 and because of Labor Day the Council will meet Wednesday, September 9.  

(KNZA)--The Brown County Historicial Society is seeking the installation of signs designating Hiawatha as the hometown Edmund Morrill, who served as the 13th governor of Kansas.

At the request of Historical Society Director Lynn Allen, the Hiawatha City Commission Tuesday evening approved a resolution requesting the Kansas Department of Transportation install the signs as allowed by Governors of Kansas Hometown Heritage Act.

Lane said the Historical Society is collaborating with several organizations in the community to have the signs installed along U.S. 36 Highway.

Lane said they need to raise about $3,000 to achieve the goal and pay KDOT to install the signs.

Morrill served as governor from 1895 to 1897. Prior to serving as governor, he served in the U.S. House of Representatives for four two-year terms.

Morrill, who died in March, 1909, is buried in Hiawatha's Mount Hope Cemetery.

In other business, the Commission approved a resolution of support for a federal legal holiday for Native American Indians.

Merle Whiteside, of Roseville, Illinois is spearheading a petition drive to get the U.S. Government to grant the legal holiday and requested the city's support.

(KLZA)-- During the quarterly report to the  Falls City Council Monday night,  Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Executive Director Beckie Cromer reported the economic development organization has been working for several months to acquire land on the north edge of Falls City.  

EDGE signed a purchase agreement for 17.9 acres of commercially zoned highway property in December. A $150-thousand down  payment was required. The hope is to complete the purchase by March 1. 

Cromer calls it an important step in future growth for Falls City. 

With the property located adjacent to  Highway 73,  it will require a traffic study for future access to the site.The traffic study will cost $8-thousand.  Three companies submitted bids for the study with the contract awarded to the low bidder, Felsburg, Holt and Ullevig.  

Community Medical Center in Falls City is partnering with EDGE for the cost of the study.   

(KNZA)--A 27-year-old Hiawatha man was arrested early Wednesday morning on drug charges.

According to a news release from Hiawatha Police Chief John Defore, shortly before 2:00 officers with Hiawatha Police Department made contact with the occupants of a residence located 408 South 11th Street in an attempt to serve a felony arrest warrant for Avery Steward.

Defore said officers located Steward and he was arrested without incident. He said at the time his arrest, Steward was allegedly attempting to conceal suspected illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia on his person.

Steward was booked into the Brown County Jail on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear, felony possession of illegal drugs and possession of drug paraphernalia.

He is currently being held on a $2,500 bond.

The case has been turned over to Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill for prosecution.

The Brown County Sheriff's Department assisted.

Steward was among four individuals arrested late last month at the same location on drug charges.

(KNZA)--An elderly Topeka woman died Tuesday afternoon after the car she was driving left U.S. 75 Highway north of Topeka and landed upside down in a creek.

The Kansas Highway Patrol identified the victim as 76-year-old Susan Lenoir.

The Patrol reports Lanoir was northbound when her car left the highway for an unknown reason, struck a road sign and plunged into Soldier Creek. The car flipped upside down and was submerged in water.

Lanoir, who was the lone occupant, was removed from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.

The Patrol says she was wearing a seatbelt when the wreck happened around 2:15 about a half mile south of 35th Street.

(KAIR)--A first for the City of Atchison.

That distinction comes as Whitney Wagner is promoted to the role of detective with the Atchison Police Department.

According to a release from the City, Wagner becomes the first woman to hold that title with the department.

In the release, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson said Wagner’s “skill as an investigator has been evident during her years in patrol,” adding that her role as detective will magnify the success of the department’s criminal investigations.

Wagner has worked for the police department for four years.

Wagner, one of three women on the police force, was the first of the trio to be hired.

She has a criminal justice degree from Missouri Western State University, where she worked in communications with campus security. Upon graduation, Wagner worked as a dispatcher for the St. Joseph Police Department for nearly seven years before securing her position with the Atchison Police Department.

Wagner is a native of Jefferson County.

(KMZA)--A late Monday morning Pottawatomie County rollover wreck sent a Wamego woman to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports 69-year-old Beth Brunkow was eastbound on Oregon Trail Road, about 4 miles northwest of Belvue, when she lost control of her sport utility vehicle on the ice. Her vehicle entered the ditch and rolled once, then entered the south ditch where it came to rest.

Brunkow was transported to the Wamego Hospital for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says Brunkow, who was alone in her vehicle, was buckled up when the wreck occurred shortly before 11:30 a.m.

(KLZA)-- During the Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Annual Banquet on January 8, the Investor of the Year Award was presented to Southeast Community College.

Southeast Community College opened a 9,500 - square foot, high-tech regional learning center in Falls City in September of 2019. 

The project had been in the works since August, 2015.

In making the presentation, EDGE Executive Director Beckie Cromer called the learning center a beacon of hope to those seeking to upgrade their skills and earnings potential. 

Two new inductees were presented their awards and will be part of the  Falls City EDGE Business Wall of Fame.  The award honors those who have been instrumental in making Falls City and Richardson County the place it is today.  They are individuals who dedicate themselves to excellence to help make Falls City a vibrant place to do business, work and live. 

The 2019 honorees were the Towle family which through four generations have pioneered business savvy and entrepreneurial spirit providing a strong foundation helping anchor Falls City.

Edwin S. Towle settled in Falls City and was the towns first Mayor.  He created the Towle Realty Company in 1913. The next generation of the Towle family purchased the Falls  City Telephone Company which became SNC and also First National  Bank.  Edwin H. Towle also served as Mayor f Falls City and was the City Engineer when the bricks were laid on Stone Street and also was active in brining Missouri Pacific offices and shops to Falls City. 

Edwin S. Towle The 2nd continued to purchase farm ground and downtown buildings for the Towle Realty Company and also owned the Independent Pipeline Company, the General Loan Company and the Missouri Valley Poster Advertising Company. 

The 4th generation of the Towle family was at the helm of many business interests under the leadership of the late Edwin S. Towle the 3rd and his wife Dorothy Towle.  Under the direction of Dorothy, SNC completed a fiber optic project placing fiber to every home and business in its rural areas.

Also honored was Mildred Appleoff who started a business of private piano, organ and voice lessons in her home.  She taught hundreds of students and touched many lives.  She and her husband Bob started Mutt & Jeff  Drive Inn and operated Appleoff Appliance for more than 50 years.  

In addition, Midlred taught vocal music for 25 years, working at both Falls City Public and Sacred Heart Schools. 
 

(KLZA)-- Following an executive session for the annual Superintendent's evaluation during a January 15 meeting, the Johnson -Brock Board of Education voted unanimously to extend the contract of Superintendent Jeff Koehlers. 

The Board approved extending Koehleer's contract through the 2022-23 contract year, with the 2022-23 contract to be be negotiated.  

In other business Koehler reported the negotiations agreement has been reached with the school districts teachers.  He also noted there are no major summer projects on the list for this year.  

Principal Lucus Dalinghaus reported he received no feedback regarding the student handbook updates or the random drug testing policy from staff or the community.  Later the Board approved on final reading the random drug testing policy and waived the three reading rule and approved updates to the student handbook policies. 

Keith Bohling was elected President of the Board for the next year with  Paul Moerer elected Vice President.  Tammy Westhart was elected Board of Education Secreatry and Kelli Bohling was elected as the Baord's Treasurer.  
 

(KMZA)--Marshall County Undersheriff Tim Ackerman has filed for election as sheriff.

Ackerman is the first candidate to file for the position.

He has worked for the sheriff's department for 17 years and became undersheriff in 2008.

Sheriff Dan Hargrave has announced he plans to retire this year and will not seek re-election.

Candidates have until noon, June 1st to file at the Marshall County Clerk's Office.

The Primary Election will be August 4 and the General Election is November 3rd.

(KMZA)--A forum will be held Wednesday evening ( January 22) to discuss the proposed construction of a new Marshall County Jail.

The forum will take place at 6:00 at the Landoll Lanes conference center in Marysville, and the public is welcome to attend.

Sheriff Dan Hargrave, representatives from the project's architectural firm, TreanorHL, of Lawrence, and construction manager Loyd Builders, of Ottawa, will speak about the project and why it's needed. They will also answer questions and present drawings of the proposed jail plans.

An initial forum was held last month in Blue Rapids.

The Marshall County Commission is currently assessing options for financing the jail's construction, which is estimated at $5.7 to $5.9 million.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners last week directed Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. to conduct a study on vacating or abandoning about a half-mile section of a road east of the intersection of 658Avenue and 708 Road which is located southwest of Rulo. 

Commissioners reviewed purchase orders from Emergency Management Director Brian Kirkendall for updates to some radio equipment,  replacement of the generator at the Courthouse and a new pickup for the Emergency Management Agency.

The Board is considering the purchase and installation of a used 150 KW generator with 120 hours. The quote from IAO Electric of Hiawatha for the unit and installation is $46,999.  

Quotes for the purchase of a half-ton pickup to replace the current vehicle, a 2019 Ford F250 which will be transferred to the Road and Bridge Department were reviewed.  Quotes were received from Armbruster Motor Company and Hullman's Ford both of Falls City.  Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2020 Ram 1500 Crew Cab 4x4 pickup from Armbruster Motors at a price of $28,200.  It was the  lowest bid received.  

Kirkendall also discussed radio equipment purchases so the County Road Department and Emergency Management radios are compatible.  The purchase of equipment from KS HCI Haug Communications  in an amount of $15,761 was approved.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central Board of Education heard the results of a survey conducted to guage interest in adding a high school wresting program when they met last week.

High School Athletic Director Warren Seitz reported on survey results.

Grades 8-11 were asked to respond to the survey-including 8th graders at the Sts. Peter and Paul School.

Seitz said they had very positive responses and there was considerable interest in adding the sport from both male and female students.

Discussion was held regarding possible places to practice. Those included the high school commons area, seeing if an agreement could be arranged to use the Community Building or building a new space, although that is not a short term solution.

In addition, coaches would need to be hired as well.

The item will be discussed again at next month's board meeting.

The Board voted last May to add middle school wrestling beginning with the current school year.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Road Department will be getting four new motor graders. 

The Doniphan County Commission at their January 13 meeting  accepted a bid from Murphy Tractor, of Topeka, for the purchase of four 2020 John Deere motor graders at a total cost of $948,068. 

Two are tandem-drive and the other two are all-wheel drive. 

The machines come with an 84 month/5,000 hour comprehensive warranty. 

Bids were also received from Foley Equipment. 

The Commission voted last month to enter into an agreement with Murphy Tractor for the buy-back of four 2015 motor graders from the county for a total cost of nearly $618,000.

(KNZA)--A Kansas Department of Transportation worker was injured Saturday morning in Doniphan County after the truck he was driving overturned.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports 19-year-old Kyle Jackson, of Troy, was northbound on K-7 Highway spreading salt and sand when his truck drifted off the roadway and overturned. The vehicle came to rest on its passenger side.

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

The Patrol says he was buckled up when the wreck happened around 8:45 Saturday morning, north of 270th Road.  

(KNZA)--An early Saturday morning two-vehicle Doniphan County wreck sent two women to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the wreck was reported shortly after 6:00  on U.S. 36 Highway, east of K-120.

According to the KHP report, 23-year-old Ashley Burge, of Atchison, was westbound when she lost control of her car on the icy roadway.  Her vehicle entered the eastbound lane and was struck by a car driven by 58-year-old Jenise Schraad, of Seneca.

Both women were transported to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph, Schraad with suspected serious injury and Burge with suspected minor injury.

The Patrol says both drivers were buckled up when the wreck occurred.

(KLZA)--Dennis Schaardt has been elected Chairman of the Pawnee County  Board of Commissioners for 2020.  

During their Tuesday meeting the Board elected Jan Lang as Vice-Chairman. 

The Board also voted to appoint Alan Gyhra and reappoint Delton Barr to three year terms on the Pawnee County Planning Commission. 

Following discussion with Jeremy Kyncl with JJK Construction and Jeff Wagner with Mainelli Wagner and Associates Engineers, and Highway Superintendent Chris Rauner, the board voted to assess liquidated damages in an amount of $12,300 against JJK Construction in connection with a Pawnee County road project. 

No one from the public appeared during a public hearing in regards to a proposal to close a portion of 620 Avenue, through a closed bridge.  Following the hearing the Board approved closing the road.

Representatives of the Nebraska Association of County Officials met with Board members to discuss 2020 NACO health insurance rates.  Commissioners will review the rates and discuss them again during their January 28th meeting. 

(KLZA)--Pawnee City will be paying the Nebraska Department of Roads to blade the snow off of the state highways passing through the community. 

Pawnee  City receives Highway allocation funds from the State and that amount will be reduced by $3,059 to remove the snow from the state highways.  

Pawnee County Sheriff Braden Lang met with the Council.  The newly appointed Sheriff says he is not planning many changes and feels the Sheriff's Office has a good working relationship with the City.

Land did note concerns about what he feels is a growing methamphetamine problem in the area. 

A water leak north of town was discussed.  Attempts are being made to determine if the leak is a city main,  a blow off line or a private line which are all located closely together.  It is a slow leak that is keeping the  area saturated.  The plan is to shut off water to each line to see if they can find the leak that way.

A quote to make repairs to seals at the sewer plant was $21-thousand. The City plans to limp along for now until they can budget for the repairs in the next budget year. 

The Council also approved the appointment of Cindy Johnson to the Library Board.

(KAIR)--The Atchison Hospital is granted ownership of the currently closed Horton Community Hospital.

That comes as a bankruptcy court judge in North Carolina approved the purchase Thursday.

The Atchison Hospital Association was the top bidder of $270,000 during a December 19, 2019 auction in Charlotte, North Carolina.

According to a release issued by Atchison Hospital, the sale will not be final until the closing process is complete. However, plans are moving forward to “restore local health care to Horton area residents.”

The Horton Hospital closed its doors in March of last year, and was among seven hospital properties, formerly owned by EmpowerHMS, placed up for auction. The auction was held as part of a bankruptcy action taken by CAH Acquisition Company.

The Kansas Attorney General's Office confirmed in March of last year it was conducting an investigation into the hospitals once overseen by EmpowerHMS.

According to the release, Atchison Hospital’s strategy for delivering quality health care in the Horton area is to restore primary care services in the clinic, with an opening date to be announced in the near future. Pharmacy services will continue to be offered, and radiology, lab, and specialty clinic services will also be available soon on an outpatient basis.

The release notes that further details regarding the organizational structure and health care offerings in Horton will be provided by Atchison Hospital over the coming months, and employment applications are now being accepted for the Horton location.

(KLZA)--Richardson County Commissioners reaffirmed several appointments and set salaries for county officials when they met  Tuesday.

Steve  Darveau Jr. will continue as Highway Superintendent with a 2020 salary of $53,550;  Brian Kirkendall will continue as Emergency Management Director and Noxious Weed Control Superintendent with an annual salary of $49,19 for Emergency Manager and an additional $3,500 annually for duties of the Noxious Weed Control Superintendent. 

Mona Godeman was reappointed as County Veterans Service Officer at a salary of $18.95 per hour.  The pay increase for all three was two percent. 

Mark Jones, Charles Duryea and Dana Rathje were reappointed to the Richardson County Planning Commission.  Luke Goff was appointed to the Extension Board to represent District 1 and Jeremy Leech was appointed to represent District 3.  They will replace Neal Kanel and Mitch Merz whose terms expired. 

(KAIR)--An elderly Jefferson County woman required hospital treatment following a two vehicle, Thursday evening Jefferson County wreck.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 73-year-old Patricia Alexander, of Perry, was transported to Topeka’s Stormont Vail with a suspected serious injury following the crash that occurred shortly before 6:30, on U.S. Highway 24, at Thompsonville Road.

According to the KHP, Alexander was eastbound on the highway, when she made a left turn in front of another vehicle, leading to the collision.

Both occupants of the second vehicle, identified as residents of Topeka, suffered suspected possible injuries and were transported for evaluations by private vehicle.

According to the report, everyone was buckled up at the time of the wreck.

(KAIR)--A group of Atchison churches will again commemorate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

According to a release, the Atchison Ministerial Alliance will hold its annual Martin Luther King Day march and service on the evening of Monday, January 20. That is the national holiday declared to recognize the slain civil rights leader.

The march will begin that evening at 6:10 in front of Atchison City Hall, with those in attendance to then walk to 715 Atchison Street, the location of the Campbell Chapel AME church. A service will be held at 6:30. The theme of the service is “Unfulfilled Dreams: What Would Dr. King Say Today?”

Speakers during the service will include the Reverend Vernon Winfrey, of Campbell Chapel AME and the Reverend Michael Strickland, of Atchison’s First Baptist Church.

The walk and service is open to the public.

(KNZA)--Two new members took their seats on the South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education Monday evening.

Superintendent Jason Cline welcomed April Keo and Rex Lockwood to the board.

Both were elected to the board in November.

Keo replaces Richard Lovelady and Lockwood replaces Jason Smith. Lovelady and Smith didn't seek re-election.

The Board approved electing board officers at their first regular meeting in July of this year.

Following an executive session, the board approved hiring Bailey Lanter as the 7th/8th grade social studies teacher for the 2020-21 school year.

The Board also voted to move 1st grade teacher Jennifer Willcott to a third grade teaching position for the 2020-21 school year.

As part of the consent agenda, the Board accepted the resignations of Staci Campbell as Everest Middle School girls basketball coach and Christie Woods as Horton High School dance team sponsor, both effective at the end of the 2019-20 season.

(KNZA)--A Highland man has pleaded no contest to a charge of indecent liberties with a child, canceling a jury trial that had been set for next week in Doniphan County District Court.

20-year-old Kyle Hoffman is accused of the lewd fondling of a child under the age of 16 last July.

He was charged following an investigation by the Highland Police Department.

Sentencing is scheduled for February 5.

Hoffman remains in the Doniphan County Jail, held on a $125,000 bond.

(KMZA)--The haul route map for the Soldier Creek Windfarm in southern Nemaha County has been finalized.

That word came Monday from Nemaha County Commission Chairman Tim Burdiek. However, Burdiek said the county is still negotiating a road use agreement at this time with NextEra Energy Resources.

Burdiek made the comments after an executive session with the county's windfarm attorney, James Neeld, who called to speak to commissioners.

The road use agreement will set out which county roads will be used to transport construction materials and ultimately turbine components for the 300 megawatt 120-turbine wind farm.

Meanwhile, the Jackson County Commission has entered into an interim agreement with NextEra that will allow the company to use county roads as they prepare to install a transmission line for the wind farm in Nemaha County.

The Commission agreed to allow the company's oversize vehicles and equipment on county roads in order to clear trees and brush on the private land where the transmission line will be built.

The transmission line will span from Nemaha County to Leavenworth County. It will include areas in Jackson, Atchison and Jefferson Counties.

A second, separate contract, is still being worked on between Jackson County and NextEra to finalize the haul route for the transmission line materials.

(KLZA)--The Mound City Board of Education has approved the school districts 2020-21 calendar. 

During their Wednesday meeting the Board approved a calendar with a first day of school for the next school year on Monday, August 24 and the final day of the school year being May 21, 2021. 

Superintendent Ken Eaton said that days will be evaluated as winter progresses, but as of now,  no make-up days ares scheduled because of days missed due to weather.  
 

(KLZA)--Kevin Scheitel was elected President of the Falls City Board of Education Monday evening.  John Martin will serve as Vice-President for 2020. 

The Board approved continuation of Superintendent Tim Heckenlively's employment contract through June 30, 2022.  A Master Teacher contract for the 202021 school year was also approved during the meeting. 

Superintendent Heckenlively reported construction has begun on the new press box at Jug Brown Stadium.  A $20-thousand donation from the family of Dr. Larry Stednitz will assist in the construction of the new single-level structure.

Murphy Construction demolished the old press box and started new construction in early January. 

Multiple organizations and individuals have stepped forward with monetary donations to help support a new sound system, electrical requirements and new furnishings.  Donations continue to be accepted to fund the new pressbox.

(KNZA)--A Mayetta man has been charged in connection with a string of mail drop box break-ins last fall in Doniphan County.

A criminal complaint was filed last month in Doniphan County District Court charging 27-year-old Decoteau Jackson with four felony counts—including burglary, theft, criminal damage to property and forgery.

A pre-trial conference is set for March 5.

He was charged following an investigation by the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department and U.S Postal officials.

Authorities say locks were cut on postal drop boxes in Elwood, Highland, Troy, Wathena and White Cloud early last October. Taken were personal checks and miscellaneous mail valued at more than $1,500. Jackson is accused of forging the checks.

He is currently free on bond after a motion was granted to reduce his bond from $100,000 to $1,000 cash.

(KNZA)--An early Thursday morning two-vehicle Brown County wreck sent a Gladstone, Missouri woman to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened at the intersection of U.S. 75 Highway and 260th Road around 5:45.

The Patrol reports 56-year-old Jennifer Dixon was westbound on 260th Road when she attempted turn southbound on U.S. 75 and struck a vehicle driven by 29-year-old Zachary Johnson, of Topeka.

Dixon was transported to the Sabetha Community Hospital for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

Johnson was not hurt.

The Patrol reports both drivers were buckled up when the wreck occurred.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Red Hawk Booster Club wants to see acoustical improvements made in the high school gym.

Troy Kolb and Chris Morey with the Booster Club met with the Hiawatha School Board Monday evening to request the improvements.

Quotes were presented from two companies for the installation of ceiling-mounted acoustic banners.

One quote was for around $30,000 and included 60 banners, which would cut the reverb from 9 secs to 5 secs. The other quote was for around $42,000 and included 100 banners, which would reduce the reverb from 9 secs to 1.2 secs.

If pursed, the Booster Club would like the district to pay the full cost of the project since the gym is used for activities other than athletics.

The Board asked Superintendent Lonnie Moser and District Maintenance Supervisor Matt Cluck to look into the project—including the cost of consulting with a structural engineer. Moser will report back to the Board next month.

In other business, the Board voted for the district to fund the high school baseball program beginning with the current school year.

The cost is expected to be about $10,000 annually.

The first two years of the program were funded by donations.

The district will continue funding the program until board action is taken otherwise.

(KNZA)--A major renovation project is set to begin Tuesday ( January 21) at the Morrill Public Library in Hiawatha.

AHRS Construction, of Bern, will serve as contractor on the about $700,000 project. Work is to begin on the lower level and continue for about 7 months.

As part of the project, existing space will be revamped, ADA and other improvements made, a new HVAC system installed along with a de-humidification system.

Funding for the project will come from the capital improvement fund, revenue from a farm that was dedicated to the library and some investments.

In preparation for the renovation project, the Library will be closed Friday through Monday, January 17-20. Staff will be moving items from the lower level to storage during that time.

The library says they are looking for volunteers from 9 a.m to 5 pm Friday through Monday to help pack and move boxes, as well as clean and prepare the storage space for larger furniture pieces.

Although construction will begin on the lower level, the library said in a release on its website that the back parking lot and south entrance will continue to be accessible for patrons needing to use the elevator to get to the second floor.

Most of the children’s book collection will be moved to storage while the lower level is being worked on, but a small selection of the books will be kept at the library upstairs and continue to be available for checkout. The library staff encourages patrons to utilize their Inter-Library Loan service to checkout any books unavailable during construction.

At this time, the library says it will not be able to reserve the meeting room for patron use until further notice. Library staff will be contacting anyone who currently has a reservation to discuss other options. Additionally, the library will not be holding Culinary Quests, Discovery classes, After School is Cool, or Studio Tuesdays during the renovation process. Wednesday Morning Book Club will continue to meet monthly upstairs in the back of the stacks.

Funding for the renovation project will come from the capital improvement fund, revenue from a farm that was dedicated to the library and some investments.

(KNZA)--The Holton/Jackson County Chamber of Commerce has named a new executive director.

According to the Chamber's board of directors, Ashlee York has been hired to fill the position.

Most recently, York served as the Chamber's administrative assistant.

York said she believes her previous experience with the Chamber has prepared her in many different ways to take the helm of the organization.

She has served on a variety of local organizations. York has a bachelor of arts degree in secondary English education from Emporia State University.

She has been resident of Holton for more than 20 years. York and her husband, Chris, have two children.

(KAIR)--Three were transported for hospital care following a Tuesday night Atchison County wreck.

According to Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, Deputies, around 11:00 Tuesday night, responded to the 5600 block of Sherman Road, in rural Atchison County, where they learned that a southbound Honda Accord ran off the road and struck several trees.

Laurie said the investigation shows that happened when the driver, 27-year-old Bill Manley, of Atchison, failed to negotiate a curve, just north of 258th Road.

Manley and two passengers, 23-year-old Kayleigh Fuhrman, of Atchison, identified as the owner of the vehicle, and 21-year-old Katelynn Jury, of Leavenworth, were all transported to the Atchison Hospital for the treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Another passenger, 22-year-old Luke Gerardy, of Atchison, refused medical treatment and was released at the scene.

According to Laurie, alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the crash, and a DUI investigation has been completed. The results remain pending.

(KAIR)--A 16-year-old girl is recovering after accidentally shooting herself.

That word comes in a report issued by Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie.

According to the report, Deputies were called to the Atchison Hospital shortly before 5:00 Tuesday evening.

They determined that the shooting happened after the girl discharged a firearm while attempting to disassemble it for cleaning.

She suffered minor injuries to her hand and was treated and released at the hospital.

According to Laurie, the accident, involving a 9mm handgun, occurred in the Potter area. 

(KAIR)--Employees of Atchison County have received a raise for the new year.

According to Atchison County Clerk Michelle Phillips, Commissioners, on January 7, approved a 3-percent across-the-board increase, with some exceptions.

The increase includes the Atchison County Commission. However, according to Phillips, District 2 Commissioner Eric Noll did not take the increase, with his annual salary to decrease to that of the previous year, which is $20,000.

Commission Chair Jack Bower, representing the 1st District, and Bill Pohl, representing District 3, received the increase, bringing their annual salaries to $21,424 annually each.

Public Works Director of the County Road and Bridge Department, James “Jay” Harbour did not receive the increase, as he only began his employment with the County in October of last year. However, Phillips said Harbour is scheduled for an evaluation in the near future.

The motion to approve the 3-percent increase was approved unanimously.

(KAIR)--Construction is beginning this week on a series of improvements along Atchison’s Main Street, between 10th and 12th Streets, adjacent to downtown Atchison.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, the project will include construction and/or reconstruction of the curb/gutter, driveway entrances, and sidewalks on Main Street, from 10th Street to 12th Street. Additionally, a new traffic signal will be installed at the intersection of 10th and Main that includes a protected left turn for northbound traffic on 10th Street during the railroad crossing preemption cycle and eliminates the existing cross-beam style signal pole.

The $490,000 construction project is fully funded by grant funds made available through the Kansas Department of Transportation. The City of Atchison is contributing in-kind design and administration services to complete the project.

Tonganoxie-based Kansas Heavy Construction was awarded the construction contract, which the Atchison City Commission approved last year.

The release says that if weather allows, construction will begin this week, and be complete by summer.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Adjutant General is resigning.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced the planned resignation of Major General Lee Tafanelli on Monday.

Tafanelli will step down from the post on March 31.

According to a release from the Governor’s Office, Tafanelli has served in the role since January, 2011.

Tafanelli, a resident of Ozawkie, is a former Republican member of the Kansas House of Representatives, where he served the 47th District, from 2006 to 2011.

According to the release, the Adjutant General is the principal military advisor to the Governor, and oversees the activities of the Adjutant General’s Department, which includes the Kansas Army and Air National Guard. The Adjutant General also serves as the director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management and director of Kansas Homeland Security. For budgetary and administrative purposes, the position is responsible for the Civil Air Patrol.

Kelly, in the release, thanked Tafanelli for his “outstanding service to the people of Kansas” and the nation, and for “his steadfast leadership of such a critical part of [Kansas] government operations.”

Tafanelli, in his letter of resignation to the Governor, said he has “been blessed to work on a team of the most outstanding and dedicated professionals” and is “extremely proud of the men and women of [the] Department.” He also thanked Governor Kelly for her leadership and support

 The Governor will release details on a succession plan later this month.

(KAIR)--Phase two of Atchison’s Dam 6 Sewer Separation Project is underway.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, the second phase of construction began Monday.

The project includes the construction of a new stormwater-only concrete pipe that ultimately connects White Clay Creek to the overflow point of Dam 6. Residents will likely notice the construction work as the contractor crosses Kansas Avenue, Santa Fe, and Atchison Street over the next several months.

According to the release, the Dam 6 Sewer Separation Project is the next step for the City of Atchison to maintain compliance with the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the subsequent consent agreements that have been established between the City and the Environmental Protection Agency and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

The release notes that the City has secured financing for the project through KDHE’s Revolving Loan Fund program, an offering that provides below market interest rates for qualifying utility projects.

Tonganoxie-based Kansas Heavy Construction was the bidder selected from four others in order to serve as the general contractor for the project.

(KAIR)--New members are seated on the Board of Education for Atchison’s USD 409.

That happened Monday during the School Board’s regular meeting.

Welcomed to the board were Sally Berger, Stefanie Gardner, and Pam Rizza.

All three won election to the three open seats in November.

Former board member Herb Gwaltney lost his bid for reelection, while two other incumbents, Bill Shipley and Rick Zumbrunn, did not seek reelection.

Following the welcome of the new members, the Board of Education organized, selecting board leadership.

Selected to serve as President of the Board was Carrie Sowers.

Elected as Vice-President was Diane Liebsch.

(KNZA)--A Fairview man has been charged with electronic solicitation of a child.

38-year-old Jeffrey Petersen has also been charged in Brown County District Court with a misdemeanor count of harassment by telephone.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill says Petersen was arrested January 6 following an investigation by the Hiawatha Police Department that included the execution of a search warrant for digital media.

He is accused of using an electronic device to entice or solicit a child born in 2003 to commit or submit to an unlawful sexual act. In addition, Petersen is accused of harassing the victim by phone.

He remains in the Brown County Jail , held on a $50,000 bond.

A preliminary hearing is set for today ( January 15).

(KMZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education has approved a calendar for the 2020-21 school year.

Superintendent Todd Evans said the Board Monday evening approved the calendar as presented.

Students will begin school August 20. Spring break will be held the week of March 15 and the last day of school will be May 20.

In other action, the Board approved the hiring of a kindergarten aide at the Sabetha Elementary School for the remainder of the current school year. Alanna Engkelken was hired for the position.

Evans said there are curently 61 kindergarteners in 3 classes at the Sabetha Elementary School.

The Board approved a resolution to continue to hold the election of officers during the 1st board meeting in July, when their new fiscal year begins.

Following an executive session, the Board approved extending Evans contract  one year through fiscal year 2023.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has a new chairman.

During their annual organizational meeting Monday, the Commission approved the appointment of Dwight Kruse as chairman for 2020. Kruse replaces Keith Olsen, who had served as chairman the past two years.

In other business, bids were opened for a streambank stablization project on 290th Road along the Laus Creek Tributary.

The Commission accepted the low bid submitted by Siebenmorgen Excavating, of rural Robinson, in the amount of $82,335. It was among two bids received.

Funding through the Natural Resources Conservation Services Emergency Watershed Protection Program will pay for 75 percent of the construction cost. The county will provide a 25 percent match in the form of in-kind services.

The project is scheduled to start January 27 and is to be completed in 30 days.

Following a discussion with the county's road foremen, the Commission approved an increase in pay for summer help. Returning summer help will be paid $14 an hour, summer help with a CDL $15 an hour and new hire seasonal employees $13.50 an hour.

Following an executive session, the Commission accepted, with regret, the resignation of head courthouse janitor Manuel “ Manny” Martinez effective January 24.

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education met Wednesday, January 8 to conduct interviews with candidates for the high school principal position. 

Following the interviews the Board voted to offer a two-year contract for the position of high school Principal / Activities Director to Jake Shipman.  

Shipman, currently is a Physical Education instructor and Athletic Director with the North Nodaway School District. 

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has approved a bid for a Brown County bridge replacement project.

According to a release from KDOT, King Construction Company, of Hesston, was awarded the bid for the replacement of a bridge on U.S. 73 Highway over Walnut Creek in the amount of $2.8 million.

The bridge is located nearly 10 miles north of the U.S. 73/U.S. 36 junction.

Bids were opened December 18 in Topeka.

A construction start date has not yet been announced.

(KLZA)-- An Auburn man was hospitalized following a wreck Friday night in  Atchison County, Missouri. 

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports 23-year-old Elijah Taylor of Auburn was westbound on US-136 Highway about five miles west of Rock Port, Missouri when his pickup slid out of control on the ice covered roadway, traveled off the road and overturned. 

The pickup came to rest on its wheels off the north side of the road. 

Taylor was transported later by private vehicle to the hospital in in Auburn.  Taylors injuries were described as moderate.  His pickup was totaled.  

Taylor was wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck which occurred about 10:30 P.M. 

KAIR-FM is back on low power. (Was off the air Monday afternoon due to a power outage at the site of the broadcast tower, located west of Huron. 
The radio station will remain off-air until power can be restored. )

(KAIR)--An Atchison vehicle fire is being investigated as arson.

That’s confirmed by Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson who told MSC News his department is joined by the Atchison Fire Department and the State Fire Marshal’s Office in investigating the weekend blaze.

According to Wilson, the fire, which occurred in the 700 block of Q Street, involved a 2004 Chevrolet pickup truck.

Wilson said it’s believed the fire was set Saturday night, and the damage was discovered by the 39-year-old owner around 10:00 Sunday morning. That’s when the fire was reported to authorities, who launched the investigation.

Anyone with information related to the crime should contact Atchison Police at (913) 367-4323.

(KAIR)--Two Horton residents suffered injuries after the car they were in crashed during what authorities say was a pursuit that followed an attempted traffic stop.

A release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant says Horton Police and the Brown County Sheriff’s K-9 unit attempted to stop the 2014 Chevy Malibu around 5:30 Thursday evening in the City of Horton.

During the pursuit, the car left the roadway and crashed in Nemaha County.

According to a release from the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office, the car was westbound on 24th Road, just west of O Road, when it went out of control on the loose gravel and slid into the north ditch.

Suffering minor injuries in the wreck were 30-year-old Andrew Davis, identified as the driver, and his 21-year-old passenger, Lashaina Simon.

Davis was transported by ambulance to Hiawatha Community Hospital for the treatment of his injuries.

The pair was arrested by the Brown County Sheriff’s Office.

Davis faces charges for four counts of possession of stolen property, felony flee to elude, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and driving while license canceled, suspended, or revoked.

Simon faces charges for possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of stolen property.

Following their arrests, both Davis and Simon were booked into the Brown County Jail.

The Brown County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate.

(KNZA)--Two local Kansas legislators are seeking re-election.

Dr. John Eplee, of Atchison, and Randy Garber, of Sabetha, have filed for re-election.

Garber, a Republican, represents the 62nd district in the Kansas House. The district includes Brown and Nemaha Counties and portions of Atchison and Jackson Counties. Garber has served in the Kansas House since 2011.

Eplee, a Republican, represents the 63rd district in the Kansas House. The district includes Atchison and Doniphan Counties. Eplee has served in the Kansas House since 2017.

So far, no one has filed to challenge either candidate.

All 165 Kansas legislative seats are up for election this November.

Candidates have until noon, June 1st to file with the Kansas Secretary of State's Office.

The Primary Election will be August 4 and the General Election is November 3.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Commission has approved a new three-year contract with Jackson County EMS for ambulance services.

The contract, approved at the Commission's January 6 meeting, calls for the county to pay $352,000 annually.

The county's previous three-year contract, which expired at the end of 2019, included $302,000 in funding for 2017, $352,000 for 2018 and $402,000 for 2019.

As part of the new contract, The Holton Recorder reports Jackson County EMS will provide one fully staffed primary ambulance in Holton. A second ambulance will also be located in Jackson County that will be staffed with on-duty personnel 64 hours per week. The remainder of the staffing for the second ambulance will be on-call.

In 2018, Jackson County EMS responded to 1,403 ambulance calls in the county.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth woman has pleaded guilty to charges in the 2018 death of her 19-month son.

According to a news release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 32-year-old Catherine Smith pleaded guilty Friday to amended charges of involuntary manslaughter, aggravated endangering a child and interference with a law enforcement officer.

She had originally been charged with second-degree murder, and a jury trial had been scheduled for January 21.

Police were sent to Smith's house on Nov. 29, 2018, and found the baby not breathing. The baby died a few minutes later at a hospital.

Thompson said the child had a temperature of 105 degrees, and a coroner said the baby likely died of hyperthermia.

Police said the child was found in the upstairs room where the temperature was close to 100 degrees, even though thermostat downstairs had been set at 75 degrees.

Sentencing is set for February 28.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman is facing charges in connection with what police say was the theft and use of a check belonging to an elderly acquaintance.

According to Atchison Police Captain Travis Eichelberger, 37-year-old Amber Hamlan was arrested Thursday in the 400 block of North 5th Street. She was taken into custody on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging her with forgery and two counts of misdemeanor theft.

According to Eichelberger, an 82-year-woman on December 20 had a check stolen from her purse. The check was then forged and cashed at a local business on January 4.

The amount of the check was $53.41.

An investigation into the theft, and forgery, led police to Hanlan, who was booked into the Atchison County Jail. Her bond is set at $10,000.

According to Atchison County Jail records, Hanlan bonded out hours after her Thursday morning arrest.

(KNZA)--A Friday afternoon two-vehicle wreck on U.S. 75 Highway in Jackson County sent two people to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened shortly before 1:30 about two miles south of the intersection with K-9 Highway.

The Patrol reports 22-year-old Chicago Cannon, of Burr, Nebraska, was southbound when she lost control of her car. Her vehicle went left of center and was struck head-on by a northbound SUV driven by 43-year-old Louis Collobert, of Topeka.

Cannon was transported to the Holton Community Hospital with suspected serious injuries.

Collobert was transported to the hospital with possible injury.

The Patrol reports both drivers were buckled up when the wreck occurred.

The crash closed a portion of U.S. 75 Highway for a period of time.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council has approved a recommendation from the Board of Public Works to spend nearly $52,600 to repair a turbo charger on an electrical generation engine at the power plant.  

Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring told Council members this is one of the  more important engines at the plant, it can be operated during non-emergencies because of emission equipment and the ability to start the engine quickly. 

Luhring says it's not easy to get these types of repairs made.  A crack developed in the turbo charger.  The company that repaired the engine before would  have required that the new casing be built overseas requiring the city to pay duty charges along with the repair bill.  New Power Production Manager was able to find one other place in the U.S., to have the casing built.  

Even paying the original company more than $5-thousand  for work already done,  the savings to the city will be around $10-thousand. 

Luhring said keeping the engine running is an important part of  agreements Falls City has with other entities. 

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council has approved a recommendation from the Board of Public Works to spend nearly $52,600 to repair a turbo charger on an electrical generation engine at the power plant.  

Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring told Council members this is one of the  more important engines at the plant, it can be operated during non-emergencies because of emission equipment and the ability to start the engine quickly. 

Luhring says it's not easy to get these types of repairs made.  A crack developed in the turbo charger.  The company that repaired the engine before would  have required that the new casing be built overseas requiring the city to pay duty charges along with the repair bill.  New Power Production Manager was able to find one other place in the U.S., to have the casing built.  

Even paying the original company more than $5-thousand  for work already done,  the savings to the city will be around $10-thousand. 

Luhring said keeping the engine running is an important part of  agreements Falls City has with other entities. 

(MSC News)--U.S. Highway 75, in Jackson County, has reopened. 

Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Don Hughes told MSC News the stretch of closed highway, north of Holton, was reopened around 2:30 Friday afternoon. 

A wreck forced the closure of the roadway. Details of the wreck aren't immediately available. 

Hughes noted that travel in Jackson County, and surrounding areas, was becoming difficult due to the wintery weather conditions, and encourages slow travel, if necessary. If travel is not needed, Hughes said motorists should stay home until weather allows. 

(MSC News)--The Kansas Corporation Commission has received reports of an individual claiming to be working with the KCC and conducting a free audit of major utilities and communication companies in Kansas to obtain refunds for consumers. 

Based on reports, the scam appears to be targeting small businesses through email.

This is not a legitimate audit and the KCC is not working with this individual. More information will be released as it becomes available.

(KMZA)--A new 2nd District Marshall County Commissioner has been selected.

2nd District Republican precinct members Thursday evening selected Tom Holle, of Herkimer, to fill the unexpired term of David Baier.

Holle's name will be forwarded to Governor Laura Kelly for appointment.

He was among seven candidates vying to fill the position.

Holle previously served as a commissioner from 2008 to 2016.

Baier announced his resignation last month, effective February 1. He plans to move to western Kansas.

The position will be up for election this November.

(MSC News)--One woman was transported to the hospital with moderate injuries after an accident on the Amelia Earhart Memorial Bridge Thursday evening.

The accident happened around 6:30 p.m. in the westbound lanes of U.S. Highway 59, east of Atchison, on the Missouri side of the bridge.

The Buchanan County Sheriff's Department said a woman with a preexisting medical condition suffered a medical episode and rear-ended a truck pulling a hay baler.

The woman was transported to Atchison Hospital with moderate injuries, according to authorities.

Names were not immediately made public. 

(KNZA)--Three area teachers are among thirty-two Kansas educators being recognized for their outstanding teaching skills through the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award program.

The 2020 Kansas Horizon Award recipients were announced Tuesday by the Kansas State Department of Education.

Among the recipients are Hiawatha Elementary School teacher Scotti Twombly Hanf, Oskaloosa Elementary School teacher Allison Flinn and McLouth Middle/High School teacher Tristan Bartley.

According to a release from the state Department of Education, the first-year educators will be honored at a special ceremony during the Kansas Exemplary Educators Network State Education Conference on February 14 in Topeka.

The Kansas Horizon Award program, sponsored by KSDE, allows all school districts in the state an opportunity to nominate one elementary and one secondary teacher for the award. To be eligble for the award, teachers must have successfully completed their first year of teaching and have performed in such a way as to distinguish themselves as outstanding.

The program is a regional competition with four regions corresponding to the state's U.S. Congressional districts. Four elementary and four secondary classroom teachers may be selected for the award from each region.

Recipients of the 2020 Kansas Horizon Award were notified of their selection by Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha Community Hospital's finances continue to improve.

Hospital Administrator John Broberg provide an update to the Brown County Commission and Hiawatha City Commission on Monday.

Broberg said through the end of 11 months last year, gross revenue was up 17 percent over the same period the year before. Revenue in November was up 34 percent over November 2018. 

He said cash on hand continues to improve but not enough for the fiscal year 2020 capital equipment requirements. Broberg said the hospital board did approve $310,000 in capital expenditures to replacing failing and aging equipment.

The Hiawatha Community Hospital Foundation added a new event this year-a New Year's Bash. Broberg said the event was a success, generating about about $12,000 to go toward an upgrade of the patient call light system.

Broberg said the hospital continues its provider recruitment efforts. A third year resident moonlighted December 6-9 and plans to return with his family for a recruitment weekend where he is not working. Another third-year resident will be working the 4th weekend of January and a first-year resident from Wichita will be coming to visit Hiawatha with her family January 28 and 29th.

Two new hospital board members have been approved for 2020. They are Sarah Olson and Mike Riley. Officers for 2020 include Board Chairman, Greg Rodvelt; Vice-Chair, Del Elffner; and Secretary/Treasurer, Jake Wisdom.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission Monday approved the purchase of four vehicles.

On the recommendation of Sheriff Rich Vernon, the Commission approved the purchase of two 2020 Dodge Durangos from Nemaha Valley Motors in Seneca for the sheriff's department. One will be purchased for $24,000 with the trade-in of a 2016 Dodge Charger and the other for $25,000 with the trade-in of a 2016 Ford Explorer.

Bids were received from three dealerships.

The Commission approved the purchase of a new pickup truck for emergency preparedness. On the recommendation of Emergency Preparedness Director Russel Lierz, the Commission approved the purchase of a 2020 Dodge Ram from Nemaha Valley Motors in the amount of $19,250 with the trade-in of a 2011 Dodge Ram. Bids were opened December 16.

The Commission also approved the purchase of a pickup truck for use by the maintenance department. The county will purchase a 2011 Dodge Ram from Nemaha Valley Motors in the amount of $9,500 with the trade-in of a 2001 Dodge Ram pickup.

Following an executive session, Sheriff Rich Vernon announced that Cheyenne Wilhelm, of Axtell, has been hired as relief dispatch for the county. Wilhelm began work Monday salary of $14.41 an hour.

The Commission held an executive session with the county's windfarm attorney, James Neeld, by phone. No action was taken by the Commission after the executive session.

Commission Chairman Tim Burdiek stated the road use agreement and the haul route map is still begin finalized at this time with NextEra Energy Resources for the Soldier Creek Wind Farm. Commissioner Dennis Henry stated the county is still talking to the Flint Hills Regional Council about assisting with the development of a comprehensive plan for the county.

(KNZA)--A member of the Hiawatha Fire Department appeared before the city commission Monday evening to request an update on the status of former Fire Chief Ryan Shockley.

Joe Nigus inquired what the fire department could do to get Shockley re-instated.

Mayor Bill Collins said the commission has not held a work session to discuss the issue, so there are no updates at this time. Collins thanked Nigus for coming.

The Commission voted last November to terminate Shockley as fire chief. He had held the position since May 2018. No reason was given for the decision.

Gene Atland was appointed as interim chief.

In other business, the commission approved a request to seek bids for four new desktop computers. Three are for the Police Department and one for City Hall.

The Commission also approved a request to move the January 20 meeting to Tuesday, January 21 due to the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council organized for the new year Monday evening. 

Third Ward  Council member Mitch Merz was elected President of the Council for 2020.  First Ward Council member Don Ferguson was elected Acting President of the Council. 

After many years of annually appointing the City Clerk / Treasurer / Administrator,  Chief of Police and City Attorney,  Mayor Shawna Bindle noted the city code as written, means the appointments are for the full term of the Mayor. The appointments that were part of the agenda for the meeting were removed from the agenda and the current appointments will continue. 

Gary Jorn will continue as the City Clerk / Treasurer / Administrator.  Duane Armbruster will continue as Chief of Police and Mike  Dunn will continue to serve as the City Attorney. 

The Council also appointed Mitch Merz to represent the  City on the Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Board of Directors.

In other action Council member voted 7-1 to have City Attorney Mike  Dunn prepare an amendment to the city ordinance requiring the process for obtaining local approval for a special designated liquor license.  Under the proposal, the requests would be reviewed by the City Administrator and would not require Council action. 

Fourth Ward Council member Jim Wisdom cast the nay vote. 

(KAIR)--The burn ban, issued Wednesday for Doniphan County, remains in place.

According to a Thursday morning alert from the County, the ban will stay in effect until further notice.

It was issued as strong winds continue to gust across the local area, in conjunction with the current, dry conditions.

According to the National Weather Service, the winds are forecast to decrease Thursday afternoon, and rain and snow showers are expected Friday.

(KAIR)--Three Atchison men, accused of participating in a fatal Doniphan County fight, now face murder-related charges.

According to the Doniphan County District Clerk’s Office, 44-year-old Scott Vandeloo, 30-year-old Matthew Cole Scherer, and 23-year-old Brian Spilman, Jr. are all charged with murder in the second degree.

Doniphan County Attorney Charles Baskins filed amended complaints against the trio December 27. All three had originally been charged with aggravated battery.

A preliminary hearing for the three is scheduled for January 23 in Doniphan County District Court.

Their bonds remain at $150,000 each.

Spilman remains jailed in Doniphan County, while Scherer and Vandeloo had been held in Leavenworth County. However, they are no longer in custody in Leavenworth County, and are apparently free on bond. 

The charges arise from an early morning, September 22, 2019 Doniphan County fight that authorities say occurred during a party held at 159 Monument Road.

42-year-old Jason Pantle, of Cummings, died September 28 of what investigators called serious head injuries at the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas.

(KAIR)--New preliminary hearing dates are set for all three Atchison men accused of playing a role in a fatal Doniphan County fight that happened in September.

44-year-old Scott Vandeloo, 30-year-old Matthew Cole Scherer, and 22-year-old Brian Spilman, Jr. had hearings Tuesday in Doniphan County District Court.

Their preliminary hearings were rescheduled for the morning of January 23.

All three remain charged with aggravated battery, although the Kansas Bureau of Investigation September 30 said charges were expected to be amended following the death of 42-year-old Jason Pantle.

Pantle, of Cummings, is identified as the victim of the early morning, September 22 altercation during a party held at 159 Monument Road, in Doniphan County.

Pantle died September 28 of what investigators called serious head injuries at the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas.

Vandeloo and Scherer remain jailed in Leavenworth County, while Spilman is jailed in Doniphan County. They are held on bonds of $150,000 each.

The Doniphan County Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case, which the KBI calls a homicide investigation.

(KMZA)--The Union Pacific Railroad will replace the railroad crossing on U.S. 36 Highway east of Seneca on Friday, weather permitting,

The Kansas Department of Transporation says work will occur between 6 in the morning and 6 in the evening.

U.S. 36 will be closed during this time.  Traffic will be guided by a signed detour route using K-187, K-9 and K-63 back to U.S. 36. 

(KLZA)-- Thousands of acres of Nebraska's First Legislative District farm land along the Missouri River remain flooded from the 2019 devastating floods.

First District State Senator Julie Slama says she is working with federal officials attempting to  get a exceptions for a couple of levy repairs included in the Water Resources Development Act while also workign with State officials and various private foundations to get the funding needed to  help with the recovery effort. 

Senator Slama who is from Nemaha County where much of the flooding occurred says concerns remain about the flooding likely to occur again in the spring of 2020. She said the upper Missouri River basin is of concern due to the expected runoff this year. 

Slama spoke to MSC News prior to the start of the Nebraska Legislative session.  

(KLZA)--The majority of Falls City will be without power Thursday morning beginning at approximately 7:30.

Monday night,  Falls City Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring provided an update to the City Council addressing the reason for the problems and the need to fix the issues now. 

Luhring said that December 16 a squirrel chewed through an insulated cable causing it to fail.  The failed cable had to be removed which decreases the amperage the city can deliver.  With the loss of amperage, the City is now bumping up against the emergency operating limits of the emergency, temporary repairs made. 

A specialty crew has been hired to fix the problems. The City did not have the required materials on hand to make a permanent fix and the work will require specialty tools the City does not have. 

Criticism was rampant on social media because of the necessary power outage to fix the problem, taking place during the day which will cause businesses to close and a large part of the community to do without power.  Luhring said the hope was to make the repairs during the holiday break for schools but the materials had not arrived. 

Luhring explained the issue needs to be fixed  before a larger problem occurs which would mean a longer period of time, possibly 5 – 6 days,  without power issues arise.  He said we could not take the chance of that  happening when temperatures are zero or 5 below.

Many questioned why the December outage  occurred since the City spent nearly $12-million on a new generator to handle the city power needs in an emergency.  Luhring explains it was the loss of the ability to feed power to customers and not to produce power, or receive power from OPPD that caused the issue. Luhring called it a wise decision by the City and the Board of  Public Works to install the new generator.

Later this spring, OPPD will be making a number of repairs to their system requiring the City to generate its owner power for about 10 hours per day. 

The power outage is planned to begin at approximately 7:30 Thursday morning and will effect about two-thirds of the community.  Repairs could take up to eight hours or longer to complete. 

Falls City Public Schools will be closed Thursday.  Falls City Sacred Heart School will be open but there will be no bus service. 

The Richardson County Courthouse will be closed and the Falls City Senior Center will be closed. 

St. Paul's Lutheran Church at 20th and Towle Streets will be open Thursday for those needing a warm place to go.  You can use the church as a “warming station or electrical station.” You can use your medical devices there or even work from the church if you need to.  The church is handicap accessible. 

(KAIR)--A Saint Joseph, Missouri man is going to prison in connection with the shooting death of another man last summer.

KQ2-TV reports 20-year-old Dylan Grippando was sentenced to 15-years in prison for the death of 21-year-old Jaiden Drimmel.

Grippando in November of last year pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. As part of the plea agreement, attorneys agreed that he wouldn’t serve more than 15-years. At the time of Monday’s sentencing, Grippando’s defense requested a sentence of 10-years.

Drimmel was killed July 11. Witnesses said he stumbled out of a Saint Joseph home before becoming unresponsive and dying at the scene.

Grippando acknowledged he pistol-whipped Drimmel but said he was shot when the gun went off accidentally. Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney Ron Holliday last year said the investigation revealed Drimmel was homeless and may have owed Grippando money for marijuana, but added that there wasn't enough evidence to show the killing was intentional.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff’s Department is searching for a stolen pickup truck.

According to a release issued late Wednesday morning by Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, the light coffee colored 2017 Ford F-150 pickup was stolen from Everest during the early morning hours of Wednesday.

The 4X4 pickup, with black tubed running boards and tinted windows, was seen leaving Everest, eastbound, around 3:20 Wednesday morning. A small, light colored passenger car was also spotted leaving that location, in the same direction, at the same time.

Anyone with information related to the case is asked to call Merchant’s office at (785) 742-7125.

(KNZA)--A Brown County investigation, following the report of questionable solicitations from paving contractors, has led to two arrests on unrelated charges.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, an Oklahoma couple is now in custody on traffic related charges.

37-year-old James Curry, of Enid, Oklahoma, was arrested on an outstanding $500 cash warrant for failure to appear in Meade County, as well as driving while license canceled, suspended, or revoked.

Curry’s wife, Linda Curry, was arrested when she attempted to bail her husband out.

She faces charges for a $2,500 Miami County warrant for driving while license canceled suspended, or revoked.

The couple was booked into the Brown County Jail.

The arrests came Friday after residents in northwest Brown County notified authorities that contractors, driving a black, Chevrolet pickup truck with an Oklahoma license plate, were soliciting in their area. Merchant patrolled that location and located the vehicle, which led to the arrest of James Curry.

Merchant asks that anyone who has had dealings with the couple to call his office at (785) 742-7125.

Social media posts in recent weeks indicate that similar solicitations were being made in Atchison County, specifically the Farmington area.

Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie told MSC News in that case, it was an Arkansas man who was driving a red, Dodge pickup, and he was issued a notice to appear in court for driving without a valid license.

There’s no immediate connection between the cases in the two counties.

(KLZA)-- The 2020 Nebraska Legislative session begins Wednesday in Lincoln. 

Senators will again attempt to come up with ways to lower taxes for homeowners and farmers.  First District State Senator Julie Slama from Peru says a $200-million surplus in tax revenues should allow for significant cuts in property taxes. She is hoping to create property tax relief while avoiding the need to increase revenues or cutting spending. 

The Senator says the surplus funds also mean there will be a number of programs coming before the Legislature looking for additional funding. Slama told MSC News that it is frustrating to see others coming with their hand out when the revenue forecast calls for extra funds,  while she is attempting to get those funds back in the hands of taxpayers. 

Another annual topic for debate during the legislative session will be funding public schools. She  says how we fund rural schools is the root of our problem when 70 – 80 percent of urban districts get money from the state.

The 2020, 60 day session begins Monday in Lincoln.  

(KAIR)--The discharge of a shotgun at an Atchison residence leads to a citation for an Atchison man.

According to a report from Atchison Police Captain Travis Eichelberger, 41-year-old Larry Holle was issued a notice to appear in Atchison Municipal Court for criminal discharge of a firearm inside the city limits.

According to Eichelberger, both Atchison Police and the Atchison Fire Department, were called to the 1500 block of Commercial Street following the Sunday evening report of a gas smell and what was called a loud “boom.”

According to the report, it was learned that Holle, around 6:00 Sunday evening, had been cleaning a shotgun when he negligently discharged the weapon.

No damaged gas line was discovered, and it’s believed the smell of the discharged weapon is what others inside the residence believed to be a gas smell.

No one was injured and the residence incurred what Eichelberger called “very minor damage.”

(KMZA)--A Florida-based company is proposing a wind farm in southeastern Marshall County.

NextEra Energy Resources is proposing to construct the 300-megawatt wind project directly south of Frankfort and Vermillion.

The wind farm would contain about 108 turbines.

The Marysville Advocate reports the company has already begun moving ahead with securing land for the project.

The company touts its investment in the county as $50 million in landowner payments for the 30-year life of the project, and $40 million in tax revenues.

The initial construction will employ 250 to 300 people, and 12 jobs will remain permanent for the life of the project.

The company plans to hold forums to explain the project to residents.

NextEra has wind projects in 33 states and four Canadian provinces. The Soldier Creek Wind Farm, to be built in southern Nemaha County is among their latest projects.

(KNZA)--Services have been set for former longtime Elwood Police Chief Larry Hunsaker.

Doniphan County Clerk Peggy Franken informed county commissioners Monday that a Celebration of Life Service for Hunsaker will be held Saturday morning at 10:00 at the Riverside east campus gym in Elwood.

Visitation will be Friday evening from 6 to 8 at the Elwood United Community Church.

Hunsaker died unexpectedly December 11 while visiting family in San Diego, California.

His career in Doniphan County law enforcement spanned over two decades.

He retired this past August at the age of 62 after a 15-year stint as Elwood Police Chief. Hunsaker also served as Doniphan County Sheriff from 2002 to 2004.

He continued to serve Doniphan County after his retirement as a part-time investigator with the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department.

Hunsaker began his career in law enforcement in 1977.

(KNZA)--A Willis man facing multiple charges in three separate cases has entered into a plea agreement.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill says 20-year-old Anthony Lay entered pleas in all three cases on January 2nd in Brown County District Court.

In the first case, Lay pleaded no contest to a felony count of fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, misdemeanor count of circumvention of an ignition interlock device, misdemeanor count of no insurance and two traffic infractions.

The charges stem from a high speed chase in December 2018.

A jury trial had been set this week in the case.

In the second case, Lay pleaded no contest to felony criminal possession of a firearm.

Brown County charges araising out of the theft of property from a rural Muscotah business were dismissed since he was convicted in Atchison County of stealing the same property.

In the third case, Lay pleaded no contest to a felony charge of aggravated sexual battery.   A jury trial in the case had been set for February.

Lay had originally been charged with rape.

Hill said the plea was entered after consultation with and the blessing of the victim, her family and law enforcement who worked the case.

The charge carries a sentence of between 114 and 128 months in prison. Lay will also be required to register as a sex offender for a period of 25 years upon his release from prison.

Lay's bond was revoked and he was remanded to the Brown County Jail to await his sentencing on March 23.

(KMZA)--An Oneida family lost their trailer home to fire early Saturday morning.

Nemaha County Emergency Preparedness Director Russ Lierz told MSC News that firefighters were called to the Ray McAuliffe residence on the north side of Oneida around 6:30.

Lierz said McAuliffe, his wife and young son escaped the fire. However, Ray McAuliffe did suffer minor injuries.

The trailer home was listed as a total loss.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office was contacted to investigate the cause of the fire.

The Bern and Seneca Fire Departments responded. Also were responding were the Nemaha County Sheriff's Department and EMS.

In addition, the American Red Cross responded to provide assistance to the family. Lierz said the McAuliffe's are staying with family in Sabetha.

(KAIR)--Two were transported for hospital care following a Sunday night rollover wreck in Atchison County.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, it happened around 11:45 when 19-year-old Horton resident Deven Anderson was behind the wheel of a Ford Crown Victoria.

Anderson, southbound in the 12000 block of Anderson Road, swerved to avoid a deer in the roadway, which caused him to lose control of the car, which rolled over several times.

Anderson and his passenger, 18-year-old Silas Garlington, of Overland Park, were both transported to the Hiawatha Community Hospital by EMS.

According to Laurie’s report, both suffered minor injuries in the wreck.

(KLZA)-- A large portion of Falls City including the downtown area will be without power on  Thursday, January 9. 

A news release says the plan is for the power to be shut off Thursday morning at 7:30 a.m. Power will remain off until repairs are made to damaged cables.  The outage will include everyone effected by the December, 9, 2019 electrical outage. 

A contractor with expertise in this type of work will be on hand so the cables can be terminated and replaced.

Repairs are expected to take up eight hours or longer to complete.  

The weather forecast calls for temperatures  in the upper 50's on Thursday.

Falls City Public Schools will be closed on Thursday.  
Falls City  Sacred Heart will be open, but there will be no bus service.

The Richardson County Courthouse will be closed Thursday and the Falls City Senior Center will also be closed. 

(KMZA)--The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office is investigating after several shots were fired early Sunday morning at an occupied residence in the town of Emmett.

According to a press release from Pottawatomie County Sheriff Shane Jager, the sheriff's office received a phone call shortly after 4:30 about shots being fired into a home in the 200 block of Bidwell Street.

Upon arrival, Jager said deputies learned that several people were inside the home  when the shots were fired and no one was injured. 

Both the residence and a nearby parked vehicle were struck by the bullets.

Jager said the investigation is on-going.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Pottawatomie County Sheriffs’s Office at (785) 457-3353, or visit the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office web-site at ptsheriff.com and leave a tip via the Crimestoppers link.

(KNZA)--Challenge coins are being made available to support a scholarship that honors a fallen Brown County Sheriff’s Deputy.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, the limited run of 150 coins are being offered to support the “Deputy Todd Widman Memorial Scholarship.”

March 1, 2020 marks the 20th anniversary of Widman’s line of duty death.

Merchant, in the release, said 100-percent of the $25 per-coin cost will be used to fund the scholarship which will be awarded to a 2020 Brown County high school senior. The funds received by the student are payable to the college of the student’s choice.

Those wanting more information should contact Cynthia Linck at the Sheriff’s Office at (785) 742-7125 weekdays between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

According to odmp.org, Widman had been employed with the Sheriff’s Office for two years when he was shot and killed on March 1, 2000, after responding to a call about a transient walking along U.S. Highway 36, in Brown County.

One of the challenge coins, as well as information regarding Widman, was sent to the Whitehouse, and President Donald Trump. Merchant said the President replied with a letter acknowledging Widman’s sacrifice.

Pawnee City burglary being investigated

Posted Friday, January 3rd, 2020 6:57am

(KLZA)--The Pawnee County Sheriff's Office is investigating a break-in at Pete's Pharmacy in Pawnee City.

Few details have been released as the case remains under investigation.

The break-in occurred between Saturday night December 28th and Monday morning, December 30 when the store reopened.

A large quantity of medications were taken. A value of what was taken has not been determined.

 

 

 

 

 

 

(KNZA)--Doniphan Co employees have been granted a pay raise for 2020.

The Doniphan County Commission Monday approved a 75 an hour pay increase for county employees, excluding employees who received an increase in their starting wages in 2019 in the health, road and sheriff's departments.

The Commission also voted to raise the base starting wage to $11.50 an hour, effective January 1, 2020.

In other business, the Commission voted to enter into a buy-back agreement with Murphy Tractor, of Topeka, for the repurchase of four 2015 John Deere motor graders in the total amount  $617,932.

Bids were opened for the purchase of four new motor graders. Bids were received from Murphy Tractor and Foley equipment. They ranged from nearly $240,000 to more than $275,000.

The Commission tabled action pending a review of the bids, with action is to be taken at the Commission's next meeting on Monday, January 6.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved a bid from a Sabetha company to provide IT services for the next three years.

On the recommendation of City Administrator Mike Nichols, the Commission Monday evening awarded the bid to Bachelor Controls, its current provider, in the amount of $8,400 annually.

The Commission also accepted a bid from the company in the amount of $3,872 for a server.

Bids were received from three companies.

In other business, the Commission approved the re-appointment of Jim Reigle, John Sheeran and Michael Koerperich to the city's Airport Board for three-year terms.

The Commission also approved the re-appointment of Nick Haedt to the city's Tree Board for a three-year term.

In addition, the Commission approved writing off $1,540 in uncollectable utility debt.

(KAIR)--Ownership of the Horton Community Hospital remains up in the air following a continuance in the proceedings by the bankruptcy court.

The decision had been scheduled to be made Thursday.

Horton City Administrator John Calhoon on Thursday told MSC News the court has continued the sale confirmation hearings until January 16. At that time, it will be decided if the Atchison Hospital is the owner of the property.

The ownership of six other facilities, all previously owned by EmpowerHMS, will also be determined on that date.

The Atchison Hospital purchased the Horton Community Hospital during an auction held December 19 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Atchison Hospital was the successful bidder after bidding $270,000. However, all such sales are final only after approval by the bankruptcy court.

Atchison Hospital leadership has not publicly stated what future plans have been put in place for Horton healthcare.

The Horton Community Hospital closed its doors in March, following a period where employees went unpaid.

The auction was held as part of a bankruptcy action taken by CAH Acquisition Company.

The Kansas Attorney General's Office confirmed in March it was conducting an investigation into the hospitals, which were once run by EmpowerHMS.

EmpowerHMS, and the company’s former leader, Jorge Perez, were named in a federal lawsuit alleging he and his company were part of an illegal billing scheme.

(KLZA)--Community Medical Center in Falls City is restricting visitors to the hospital.

Due to the amount of flu in the area, the hospital has put the restrictions in place to help keep the flu under control.

No children under 12 are to visit unless they are at the hospital for care.

You are asked to limit healthy visitors to one to two people per patient.

You should not visit the hospital in you have flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, runny nose, diarrhea, vomiting or respiratory symptoms.

If you have questions, please call Community Medical Center at 402-245-2428 and ask to speak to the nurses station. You may also contact your primary healthcare provider with questions.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is facing charges following alleged threats made to a City of Atchison employee.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 29-year-old Brandon Getter was arrested Tuesday in the 500 block of Atchison Street. He was taken into custody on a charge of criminal threat.

According to Wilson, Getter Tuesday morning placed a phone call to Atchison City Hall, where he talked to a clerk, and allegedly made threats of violence toward City Staff. According to the report, Getter referred to the condition of city streets during the phone call.

At 9:40 Tuesday morning, ten minutes after the phone call was placed, Wilson said Getter arrived at City Hall, where he was arrested in connection with the alleged phone call threats.

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

According to jail records, bond for Getter has been set at $10,000.

(KNZA)--An early Wednesday evening two-vehicle Jefferson County wreck sent four people to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports 41-year-old Mark Allensworth, of Mayetta, was eastbound on U.S. 24 Highway when his car struck the passenger side of a pickup truck that was stopped on the highway facing south in the eastbound lanes. The vehicle had been involved in a prior crash.

The driver of the pickup, 54-year-old Baldwin resident Roger Morris, was transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital with suspected serious injuries.

Allensworth and two passengers in his vehicle, 33-year-old Stacy Rippel and 12-year-old Josh Allensworth, both of Mayetta, were transported to the hospital with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says the wreck was reported shortly after 5:30 Wednesday evening at Decatur Road.

(KNZA)--An early New Year's day fire in Jackson County destroyed a rural Denison home.

According to a news release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, the fire was reported just after midnight Wednesday at 17970 158th Road.

Morse said when firefighters arrived on the scene, the residence was fully engulfed in flames.

No one was home at the time of the fire and no injuries were reported.

Morse said the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Kansas State Fire Marshal's office are investigating the fire.

The Mayetta, Hoyt and Prairie Band Potawatomi Fire Departments responded. Also responding were the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Jackson County EMS.

(KNZA)--A Tuesday afternoon rear-end collision on I-29 in St. Joseph, Missouri sent a Troy woman to the hospital.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says 70-year-old Sharon Ruhnke was following a southbound van too closely and her SUV struck the rear of the vehicle.

Ruhnke, who was wearing a seatbelt, was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with what the Patrol described as minor injuries.

The driver of the van, 53-year-old Savannah, Missouri resident Jon Morgan, was not hurt.

The wreck was reported around 3:00 Tuesday afternoon.