(KMZA)--Seventy-eight years after he was killed in action during World War II, a gold ring worn by an airman from Centralia has been returned to his surviving family members.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran presented the ring to the family of Sgt. Carol Eugene Domer during a ceremony Monday at the Nemaha County Veterans Memorial in Seneca.

Domer died at the age of 22 on January 1, 1943 after being trapped inside when the  plane in which he was serving as a tail gunner was ditched in the South Pacific while returning from a bombing mission.

Moran and the Domer family have been working since 2003 to recover Sgt. Domer's remains and return them to his final resting place.

The ring was recovered in 2016.  It could not initially be connected to Domer, but three years later a family photo taken in 1942 was discovered that showed Domer wearing the ring.  On the basis of that photo, the U.S. Army determined the ring definitely belonged to Domer.

Moran also on Monday presented his family with the U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol in Washington D.C last year to honor the 100th anniversary of Domer's birth.

(KLZA)-- A traffic stop on Saturday by Richardson County deputies led to an arrest on drug charges.

According to the Richardson County Sheriff's Office, deputies stopped a Ford F-150 truck on Highway 75 near 708 Road. Upon further investigation deputies arrested 31-year-old Samantha Gerry of Topeka, for possession of methamphetamine and unlawful acts relating to drugs.

Gerry was booked into the Richardson County Jail.

(KLZA)- A Dawson man was arrested on a drug charge following the execution of a search warrant.

According to the Richardson County Sheriff's Office, deputies served the search warrant at 815 Nemaha Street on Saturday. 

  51-year-old Buckley Auxier was arrested for possession of methamphetamine.

Auxier was booked into the Richardson County Jail.

(KNZA)--Three individuals were arrested on drug charges following the execution of two search warrants in Rulo.

According to the Richardson County Sheriff's Office, the Sheriff's Office, with the assistance of the Brown County Sheriff's Office K-9 unit, served the search warrants simultaneously Friday evening.

During a search of a residence on Third Street, the Sheriff's Office says deputies located 60 grams of methamphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy and marijuana. Michael Dean was arrested for possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine, possession of ecstasy, possession of money during a drug crime, possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

During a search of a residence on Martin Street, deputies located suspected methamphetamine and marijuana.  Melinda Goll was arrested for possession of meth, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Griffen Tracy was arrested for possession of meth and drug paraphernalia.

All three were booked into the Richardson County Jail.

(KNZA)--An early Saturday morning Jackson County traffic stop led to the arrest of a Bonner Springs man on drug charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said a deputy stopped a 2007 Chrysler Aspen near U.S. 75 Highway and Third Street in Holton shortly before 1:00.

Morse said the passenger in the vehicle, 40-year-old Justin Nidiffer was arrested on a Wyandotte County warrant for possession of methamphetamine.  He said illicit contraband was allegedly found in Nidiffer's possession. As a result, he was charged with possession of heroin, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of prescription drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Nidiffer was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KLZA)--A head-on crash Friday evening in northwest Missouri left a Auburn, Nebraska couple seriously injured.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 136, just west of Rock Port.

The Patrol says a westbound Dodge Ram pickup driven by 26-year-old Dalton Hart, of Tarkio, was attempting to make a left turn into a private drive when a eastbound 1938 Chevy car driven by 50-year-old Kenneth Holmes began to skid. The Patrol says  Hart turned into the path of the car and the vehicles collided head-on.

Holmes and a passenger in his car, 44-year-old Stephanie Holmes, were both taken by ambulance to Community Hospital in Fairfax.  The couple were later taken by air ambulance to the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

Hart was not injured.

The wreck was reported just after 6:30 Friday evening.

(KMZA)--A primary election will be needed to narrow the field of candidates seeking a position on the Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education.

According to the Nemaha County Clerk's Office, Doug Dalinghaus becomes the fourth candidate to file for position 1.

Dalinghaus joins John Howard, Laurie Osterhaus and incumbent Amy Sudbeck in vying for the position.

During the August 3 primary election, the top two vote getters will advance to the November 2 general election ballot.

In other filings this week, Phillip Buessing filed for position six on the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education.  The position is currently held by Ann Shaughnessy.

Joe Mitchell filed for re-election as Seneca mayor and Maridel Wittmer for re-election as Commissioner of Finance on the Sabetha City Commission

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

(KMZA)--U.S. Senator Jerry Moran will be the featured speaker at a Memorial Day service honoring a missing World War II airman from Centralia.

The service will take place beginning at 2:00 Monday afternoon at the Nemaha County Veterans Memorial located at the junction of U.S. 36 and K-63 Highways at Seneca.

22-year-old Sergeant Carol Eugene Domer volunteered to man the tail gun on a B-24 for a night bombing run on January 1, 1943 targeting a Japanese airfield on the island of New Britain. On the return trip, engine failures forced the pilots to ditch the aircraft  near Kawa Island in the Solomon Sea off the coast of New Guinea.

Ten occupants escaped the sinking bomber, but Domer was trapped in the tail section.  His body was never recovered.

In 2002, the wreckage was discovered in 90 feet of water. Members of Domer's family contacted Moran who worked to arrange for the U.S government to have divers search the site.

Divers conducted that search in 2016, recovering only the sole of a shoe, the clip of a fountain pen and a gold ring. None of those items could initially be connected to Domer. However, three years later a family photo taken in 1942 was discovered that showed Domer wearing the ring. On the basis of the photo, the U.S. Army determined the ring definitely belonged to Domer.

Moran will return the ring to the family at the Memorial Day service. He will also present the family with the U.S. flag that was flown over the Capitol in Washington D.C on February 28 of last year to honor the 100th anniversary of Domer's birth.

(KNZA)--With the filing deadline fast approaching, candidates have filed for three positions up for election in November on the South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education.

According to the Brown County Clerk's Office, Shelby Rice and Jared Wilson have filed for position 5, which is currently held by Jamie Bottom.

Sarah Stirton and Shelly Smith have filed for position 6, which is currently held by Jacob Bruning.

Katelyn Ross has filed for re-election to position 4.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three candidates file for a position.

(KNZA)—A Topeka woman was killed and four other Topeka residents were injured in a crash late Thursday night during a Jackson County pursuit.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened at the intersection of U.S. 75 Highway and 286th Road about 7 miles north of Holton.

The Patrol says a Dodge Avenger was westbound on 286th Road fleeing from a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy when the vehicle failed to stop at the intersection with U.S. 75 and collided with a southbound Jeep Renegade SUV.

The Patrol says a passenger in the Dodge, 26-year-old Shai Boyd, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the car, 42-year-old  Robert Love, was transported to Stormont-Vail Hospital in Topeka with suspected serious injuries.

Another passenger in the vehicle, 19-year-old Ciara Evertson, was also transported to the hospital with suspected serious injuries.

The driver of the Jeep, 41-year-old Sara Ditch, and her passenger, 56-year-old Scott Ditch, were both transported to the hospital with suspected minor injuries.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said the pursuit began around 10:50 Thursday night in Holton when a Holton police officer attempted to stop the Dodge car. 

The incident remains under investigation.

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison “is scheduled to receive about $1.589 million” in COVID-19-related relief funds “over the course of the next two years.”

According to a release from the City, the funds are being made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, commonly referred to as the COVID-19 Stimulus Package, as approved by the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Joe Biden in March.

The release from the City of Atchison states that “the money can be used in a variety of ways but also comes with a number of restrictions,” noting that the City “has not yet decided how to utilize the funds but will be forthcoming as more is decided.”

According to the release, “the money should be available within the next 30 days, and the City has until the end of 2024 to utilize the funds.”

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison’s downtown overhaul is underway, with renovation of the city’s long-standing, former downtown pedestrian mall, comprising the 500 and 600 blocks of Commercial Street, continuing. However, with the recent rainy weather, work is now expected to finish later than had been anticipated.

According to a release from the City of Atchison Monday, the longer-than-planned construction schedule was likely due to what the release called “a difficult period of weather delays in recent weeks.” Now, with the late week thunderstorms bringing additional rainfall, a completion date around mid-July is expected. 

According to the release, when the 500-600 Commercial Street Project began with demolition work earlier this year, “the City had targeted a June completion date,” with the release stating the City will “be sure to share schedule updates as they become available in the upcoming weeks.”

The work, which began in February, includes removal of the mall, with the one-time foot-traffic-only area being converted for vehicle traffic. That will make the one-time mall-area resemble other areas of Commercial Street, and bring the location closer to how it was utilized prior to the mall’s construction.

According to the City, the 500 to 600 block-stretch of Commercial Street was converted into the pedestrian mall after two flash-floods in 1958 devastated the downtown area, and “hastened the replacement of many of the oldest commercial buildings.”

The Atchison City Commission voted last year to move forward with demolition of the mall, with 75-percent of the demolition project’s cost being funded through a Kansas Department of Transportation grant. That leaves the City responsible for the remaining 25-percent.

(KLZA)-- Big Lake State Park is scheduled to reopen for day-use  this weekend. 

The picnic area, Boy Scout Island and the boat ramp along with the playground will be open to visitors. 

The park has been closed since the flood that occurred in 2019.  

Park Manger Mark Kunkel told the Mound City News that when the camp grounds open back up depends on  when repairs to the sewer system is repaired. Financing to make the repairs must be secured.  

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education approved a bid from Schueth Construction in an amount of $73,968 to build a new retaining wall at the track and football field when they met May 18. 

Superintendent Korey Miles updated the Board on the project.  Techline was scheduled to start with the new lighting project on Wednesday of this week with Fisher Track to begin preliminary work on the track expansion project.

Miles also reported the custodial staff will be working to replace the boiler pipe, behind the walls in the lower elementary school.  The walls are being removed to start the project.  

High School Principal Jake Shipman reported dual credit offerings for student will remain the same from both Missouri Western and Northwest Missouri State University for the next school year. 

Board members approved hiring Jennifer Daniels as Speech Language Pathologist for the 2021-22 school year.

The preliminary budget review as also presented to the Board. 

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison “is scheduled to receive about $1.589 million” in COVID-19-related relief funds “over the course of the next two years.”  

According to a release from the City, the funds are being made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, commonly referred to as the COVID-19 Stimulus Package, as approved by the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Joe Biden in March.  

The release from the City of Atchison states that “the money can be used in a variety of ways but also comes with a number of restrictions,” noting that the City “has not yet decided how to utilize the funds but will be forthcoming as more is decided.”  

According to the release, “the money should be available within the next 30 days, and the City has until the end of 2024 to utilize the funds.”

(KAIR)--“Alcohol tourism possibilities” could open locally under a bill, supported by the City of Atchison, and signed into law by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

That’s according to a release from the City of Atchison Wednesday, which states that the bill “will allow alcohol manufacturers to have a retail license within 2 miles of the manufacturing facility.”

The release notes that the City of Atchison testified on behalf of the legislation “multiple times before state legislators as it will allow MGP Ingredients to open a tasting room in Atchison and sell its portfolio of spirits if the company chooses to do so.”

According to the release, “the bill could open up alcohol tourism possibilities locally, similar to what Holladay Distillery has done in Weston, Missouri.”

House Bill 2057 was sponsored by State Representative Dr. John Eplee, of Atchison.

During testimony provided to the House Committee of Commerce, Labor, and Economic Development in February, Eplee called the matter "a somewhat long-standing issue that has percolated" in the Kansas Statehouse for several years.

According to Eplee's testimony, the issue was first introduced during the Legislative Session of 2015 by then State Representative Jerry Henry.

Written testimony provided to the Committee by MGP Vice-President, Chief Administrative Officer Dave Rindom, said the change could mean MGP "could further support the Atchison Community's economic well being by creating new employment opportunities, providing an additional attraction for visitors from surrounding states, and adding to the local sales tax base."

A support letter submitted to the Committee on behalf of the City of Atchison by Director of Administrative Services, Joe Warren, called the legislation "a common sense solution that addresses the current inequities facing border communities seeking to compete for tourism and recreational revenues with contemporaries in border states."

(KAIR)--A drive-through teenage vaccination clinic will be held in Jefferson County.

That’s planned for the evening of June 9 at the Sheriff’s Office annex.

Jefferson County Health Department Administrator Crystal VanHoutan informed the County Commission about the clinic during the Commission’s regular meeting Monday.

She said the clinic will run from 6 until 8:00 that evening, and the Pfizer vaccine will be given.

During her presentation, VanHoutan updated the Commission about the County’s current coronavirus cases, saying that from May 14 through May 24 there have been six positive cases, with 14 of the county’s overall cases involving variants of concern. The County’s percent positivity for May 9 through May 16 stands at 3.29-percent.

7,530 doses of vaccine have been administered in Jefferson County, with VanHoutan explaining that 3,588 first doses and 3,532 second doses of the Moderna vaccine have been given.

416 doses of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine have been administered.

Jefferson County has had 1,741 positive cases, 73 hospitalizations, and 36 deaths.

(KAIR)--A local area county sheriff has been appointed to serve on the Kansas Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Advisory Committee.

According to a release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announcing her latest appointments to state boards and commissions, Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Herrig has been named to serve on the committee. 

The release says the Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Advisory Committee’s purpose is to advise the director of architectural services and the secretary of the state historical society “with regard to memorials to law enforcement officers on the State Capitol ground,” and to “make recommendation to the Governor and legislature regarding activities commemorating the services of Kansas law enforcement officers.”

The committee may also solicit grants, gifts, contributions, and bequests for the memorials.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha resident appeared before the City Commission Monday evening to voice his concerns about the large number of cracks that have developed in the new concrete streets that have been constructed the past two years. 

Virgil Hallauer said he has been walking the new streets in his neighborhood, and that in one section of streets replaced in 2019, he found more than 70 cracks. He said in a section of three blocks from last year's work he found over 80 cracks. Hallauer said he doesn't think that two year old concrete should be cracking, and that in continuing to pay the contractor for the work, he feels like the city is losing its leverage.

Commissioner Brian Shefferd said he has heard complaints from other residents about the streets as well. Shefferd said that if a contractor had done similar work on is driveway, they would be redoing it.

Mayor Bill Collins said he's not happy about the streets either, but feels like the issues are being addressed. He asked each of the commissioners to take a look at the streets, as they all share the responsibility of representing the taxpayers.

Hiawatha voters in 2016 approved a half-cent sales tax increase to fund construction of the new streets.

(KMZA)--With the filing deadline fast approaching, several additional candidates have recently filed in Nemaha County for city and school board positions up for election in November.

Two additional candidates filed last week for position 1 on the Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education. Incumbent Amy Sudbeck and Laurie Osterhaus join John Howard in seeking the position.

Incumbent John Deters also filed last week for re-election to position 6.

They are among four positions up for election on the USD 115 Board.

There was one additional filing last week for the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board. Doug Renyer filed for position 4, joining Anissa Bloom in vying for the seat currently held by Eed Reznicek.

It's among three positions up for election on the USD 113 board.

Incumbent Seneca City Council members Kylee Bergstrom and Alice Lackey filed last week for re-election.

No one has filed yet for the position of mayor, currently held by Joe Mitchell. Also no one has filed for the 3rd Ward Council position currently held by Jim Mitchell.

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

The general election will be held November 2 and a primary election will be held August 3, if more than three candidates file for a position.

(KNZA)-- A Doniphan County roofer has been temporarily banned from performing roofing services in Kansas and ordered to pay more than $6,700 in restitution after being found in violation of consumer protection laws.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, in a news release Wednesday, said Rocky Murry, of Troy, who does business as Murry 66, was ordered to repay a Doniphan County consumer $6,760. He was also temporarily enjoined from operating as a roofing contractor in Kansas until such time he has obtained a roofing contractor registration certificate from the attorney general as required by law.

District Judge Jim Patton this week entered default judgment after Murry failed to respond to a lawsuit filed in April in Doniphan County District Court. Murry was also ordered to pay a $90,000 civil penalty.

Schmidt had alleged that Murry accepted payment from a consumer for roofing services but failed to complete the project, leaving it partially completed and without shingles. Schmidt said Murry also allegedly failed to register as a roofing contractor with the attorney general’s office as required by law.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Community Foundation will hold its 1st annual “ Give Back to Move Forward Match Day” this upcoming Memorial Day weekend to benefit more than twenty organizations, businesses and projects in the area.

Foundation Board President Virginia Freese said the group has set aside $35,000 to be used as matching funds for the event.

On Saturday and Sunday, qualifying donations of $100 or more made through the Foundation to the participating non-profit funds will receive a 50 percent match. 

You can come to the Fisher Community Center to make your donation Saturday from 9 to 5. On Sunday, donations can be made at the Hiawatha Country Club from 12 noon to 6.

In addition, you can give on-line at GiveBackToMoveForward.com from 12 noon Saturday until 11:59 p.m. Sunday.

Give Back to Move Forward Participants:

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha should hold onto the old RV park site on South 1st Street.  That was the consensus of the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening.

Representatives of NEK-CAP appeared before the Commission for an answer on whether the city would allow them to use the site for the construction of a new administration building and Head Start Center.

While saying they would like to see NEK-CAP relocate to town, Commissioners Becky Shamburg, Dave Middendorf and Brian Shefferd said they didn't think the city should give up the land. Concerns were voiced about limiting the land available to the city for future Parks and Recreation projects. In addition, concerns were voiced about having to move the skate park located on the property.

Mayor Bill Collins voiced support for letting NEK-CAP use the property. Also former commissioner Toni Hull appeared before the Commission to voice her support, touting the economic benefits it would bring.

NEK-CAP has been looking for a site in Hiawatha for more than a year, but haven't found anything yet that fits their needs.

City Administrator Mike Nichols recently showed the NEK-CAP representatives other city-owned land—including property south of Noble Field next to Little Hands Daycare. But they voiced concerns about the dirt work it would require and water issues.

(KNZA)--An additional candidate has filed for one of three positions up for election in November on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education.

According to the Brown County Clerk's Office, Jacquelyn Kerl filed Tuesday for  position 5. 

Kerl joins incumbent Andrea Groth in seeking the position. Groth was appointed to the position last year following the resignation of Dr. Pete Rosa.

Also up for election are the positions currently held by Keith Erdley and John Wright.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3 if more than three candidates file for a position.    

(KNZA)--Funeral services have been set for a rural Holton man killed in an explosion at his home earlier this month.

Services for 61-year-old Billy " Lu" Griffiths will be held Friday, June 4 at 11:00 in the morning at the Parker-Price Funeral Home, in Topeka.

Visitation will be Thursday evening, June 3 from 4 to 7 at the funeral home.

Griffiths served as director of the Banner Creek Reservoir near Holton.

His wife, Teri, suffered severe injuries in the May 10 explosion and was airlifted to a Kansas City hospital.

A preliminary investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office identified a propane leak as the likely cause of the explosion.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County continues to look at options concerning 911 dispatching services.

Tuesday, Beatrice Police Chief Bruce Lang and members of the Beatrice 911 program that serves all of Gage County as well as the City of Crete which is in Saline County met with the Richardson County Board to discuss a proposal for the Beatrice 911 provide dispatching for Richardson County outside of Falls City. Lang did say that they would be glad to provide dispatch services for Falls City as well. 

Lang said that training and staffing requirements are pushing emergency dispatching toward consolidation of services. He said the days of the “Jailer/Dispatcher” are coming to an end because the requirements just won't allow that to happen. 

The Falls City Police Department currently serves as the Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls for all of Richardson County. Richardson County earlier this year proposed combining the City and County dispatching into a single dispatch center in an attempt to save tax dollars.  Following an exchange of proposals, the City Council said the City would continue to serve as the PSAP and not take part in further negotiations. 

Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty said following that, the Beatrice Police contacted Richardson County Commission Chairman David Sickel to see if Richardson County would be interested in being part of their 911-dispatch group.

Lang told those in attendance, which included members of the Falls City Police Department and Administration along with representatives of the Humboldt Ambulance Squad and Richardson County Rural Fire Mutual Aid 
that they are also looking to include other counties including Johnson and Jefferson Counties. 

Lang said no one is making money on this, but by having more members resources could be shared and the service should be better. 

Lang said he knows it's hard to make change,  but that all the counties and cities are too small to make it on their own.  He said sometimes understanding what is best and what we want can be difficult.

While the up-front costs for Richardson County have not been determined,  Lang estimated the annual cost to be in the neighborhood of $180-thousand.  Those up-front costs would include a new radio tower and radio consoles. He also said the proposal would be for a three-year contract.  Lang said he believed making the change would save Richardson County more than a million dollars over a five-year period.  

Doug Phillips with the Humboldt Rescue Squad asked what the benefits would be for groups such as the Humboldt Rescue Squad and Fire Department over the current system.  Lang noted sharing resources, being able to include mobile data terminals in emergency vehicles is possible. He said that by later this Fall,  Beatrice will have a tornado resistant back-up 911 dispatch center inside the new $9-million Beatrice Fire Station that is being built. 

Lang said with the current technology,  it makes no difference where the dispatching is done from,  the information would be the same and there would be no time delay.  

Sheriff Hardesty said he feels it would be a benefit for the residents of Richardson County and that he hopes Falls City will also jump on board.  

Hardesty reiterated his feelings that he thinks having all the dispatching in one place is the best situation for the citizens of Richardson County. 

The next step will be Doug Ostengard with First Wireless determining the radio needs,  phone line needs and tower needs and coming up with the “up-front” costs.  At that point they can come up with more solid numbers for the cost.

Lang said they could also meet with other entities such as rural fire departments and other first-responders to discuss their concerns about making such a change.  He also said they would be willing to meet with Falls City representatives if they were interested in being part of the regional dispatch center.   

(KLZA)-- Richardson County continues to look at options concerning 911 dispatching services.

Tuesday, Beatrice Police Chief Bruce Lang and members of the Beatrice 911 program that serves all of Gage County as well as the City of Crete which is in Saline County met with the Richardson County Board to discuss a proposal for the Beatrice 11 provide dispatching for Richardson County outside of Falls City. Lang did say that they would be glad to provide dispatch services for Falls City as well. 

Lang said that training and staffing requirements are pushing emergency dispatching toward consolidation of services. He said the days of the “Jailer/Dispatcher” are coming to an end because the requirements just won't allow that to happen. 

The Falls City Police Department currently serves as the Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls for all of Richardson County. Richardson County earlier this year proposed combining the City and County dispatching into a single dispatch center in an attempt to save tax dollars.  Following an exchange of proposals, the City Council said the City would continue to serve as the PSAP and not take part in further negotiations. 

Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty said following that, the Beatrice Police contacted Richardson County Commission Chairman David Sickel to see if the Richardson County would be interested in being part of their 911-dispatch group.

Lang told those in attendance, which included members of the Falls City Police Department and Administration along with representatives of the Humboldt Ambulance Squad and Richardson County Rural Fire Mutual Aid 
that they are also looking to include other counties including Johnson and Jefferson Counties. 

Lang said no one is making money on this, but by having more members resources could be shared and the service should be better. 

Lang said he knows it's hard to make change,  but that all the counties and cities are too small to make it on their own.  He said sometimes understanding what is best and what we want can be difficult.

While the up-front costs for Richardson County have not been determined,  Lang estimated the annual cost to be in the neighborhood of $180-thousand.  The up-front costs would include a new radio tower and radio consoles. He also said the proposal would be for a three-year contract.  Lang said he believed making the change would save Richardson County more than a million dollars over a five-year period.  

Doug Phillips with the Humboldt Rescue Squad asked what the benefits would be for groups such as the Humboldt Rescue Squad and Fire Department over the current system.  Lang noted sharing resources, being able to include mobile data terminals in emergency vehicles is possible. He also noted that by later this Fall,  Beatrice will have a tornado resistant back-up 911 dispatch center inside the new $9-million Beatrice Fire Station that is being built. 

Lang said with the current technology,  it makes no difference where the dispatching is done from,  the information would be the same and there would be no time delay.  

Sheriff Hardesty said he feels it would be a benefit for the residents of Richardson County and that he hopes Falls City will also jump on board.  

Hardesty reiterated his feelings that he thinks having all the dispatching in one place is the best situation for the citizens of Richardson County. 

The next step will be Doug Ostengard with First Wireless determining the radio needs,  phone line needs and tower needs and coming up with the “up-front” costs.  At that point they can come up with more solid numbers for the cost.

Lang said they could also meet with other entities such as rural fire departments and other first-responders to discuss their concerns about making such a change.  He also said they would be willing to meet with Falls City representatives if they were interested in being part of the regional dispatch center.   

(KLZA)-- Richardson County continues to look at options concerning 911 dispatching services.

Tuesday, Beatrice Police Chief Bruce Lang and members of the Beatrice 911 program that serves all of Gage County as well as the City of Crete which is in Saline County met with the Richardson County Board to discuss a proposal for the Beatrice 11 provide dispatching for Richardson County outside of Falls City. Lang did say that they would be glad to provide dispatch services for Falls City as well. 

Lang said that training and staffing requirements are pushing emergency dispatching toward consolidation of services. He said the days of the “Jailer/Dispatcher” are coming to an end because the requirements just won't allow that to happen. 

The Falls City Police Department currently serves as the Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls for all of Richardson County. Richardson County earlier this year proposed combining the City and County dispatching into a single dispatch center in an attempt to save tax dollars.  Following an exchange of proposals, the City Council said the City would continue to serve as the PSAP and not take part in further negotiations. 

Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty said following that, the Beatrice Police contacted Richardson County Commission Chairman David Sickel to see if the Richardson County would be interested in being part of their 911-dispatch group.

Lang told those in attendance, which included members of the Falls City Police Department and Administration along with representatives of the Humboldt Ambulance Squad and Richardson County Rural Fire Mutual Aid 
that they are also looking to include other counties including Johnson and Jefferson Counties. 

Lang said no one is making money on this, but by having more members resources could be shared and the service should be better. 

Lang said he knows it's hard to make change,  but that all the counties and cities are too small to make it on their own.  He said sometimes understanding what is best and what we want can be difficult.

While the up-front costs for Richardson County have not been determined,  Lang estimated the annual cost to be in the neighborhood of $180-thousand.  The up-front costs would include a new radio tower and radio consoles. He also said the proposal would be for a three-year contract.  Lang said he believed making the change would save Richardson County more than a million dollars over a five-year period.  

Doug Phillips with the Humboldt Rescue Squad asked what the benefits would be for groups such as the Humboldt Rescue Squad and Fire Department over the current system.  Lang noted sharing resources, being able to include mobile data terminals in emergency vehicles is possible. He also noted that by later this Fall,  Beatrice will have a tornado resistant back-up 911 dispatch center inside the new $9-million Beatrice Fire Station that is being built. 

Lang said with the current technology,  it makes no difference where the dispatching is done from,  the information would be the same and there would be no time delay.  

Sheriff Hardesty said he feels it would be a benefit for the residents of Richardson County and that he hopes Falls City will also jump on board.  

Hardesty reiterated his feelings that he thinks having all the dispatching in one place is the best situation for the citizens of Richardson County. 

The next step will be Doug Ostengard with First Wireless determining the radio needs,  phone line needs and tower needs and coming up with the “up-front” costs.  At that point they can come up with more solid numbers for the cost.

Lang said they could also meet with other entities such as rural fire departments and other first-responders to discuss their concerns about making such a change.  He also said they would be willing to meet with Falls City representatives if they were interested in being part of the regional dispatch center.   

(KAIR)--The Jackson County Commission has called on the County Attorney to pursue recouping fees spent on a special prosecutor accused of ethics violations.

The letter, sent from Jackson County Counselor Lee Hendricks, on behalf of the Commission, requests that County Attorney Shawna Miller "pursue any and all reimbursement the County might obtain for the fees paid to Special Prosecutor Spradling during the Ewing matter," referring to the past trial of Jacob Ewing, whose convictions on sex crimes charges were thrown out on appeal. That followed the alleged misconduct of Jacqie Spradling, with a recommendation from a panel of Kansas attorneys in January of last year that ethics violations be pursued. She's accused of misleading the jury that found Ewing guilty in 2017.

The complaint was filed by Ewing's mother.

The Kansas Court of Appeals, that reversed Ewing’s conviction, said Spradling's misstatement of evidence during the closing argument of the trial inflamed "passions and prejudices of the jury."

The letter sent to Miller, dated May 21, states the Commission has "specifically requested that [Miller] revisit [Spradling's] employment by the County and provide the Commission with any methods" that "taxpayer funds might be recouped for her conduct."

Ewing, earlier this month, struck a plea deal with prosecutors, with the 26-year-old Holton man entering an Alford plea in Jackson County District Court to two counts of aggravated sexual battery.

His sentencing is set for June 18.

(KAIR)--Atchison County has eight coronavirus cases listed as caused by variants of concern.

That’s according to the latest statistics released Monday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

According to KDHE, the eight cases involve four different variants, which are named by health officials as those of concern due to evidence of an increase in transmissibility, and a more severe disease, leading to increased hospitalizations or death.

Two cases each, involving one variant of concern, are confirmed in Brown and Doniphan counties, while Jefferson County has 14 involving three variants. One variant-related case is confirmed in Jackson County, while ten cases, involving three variants, are confirmed in Leavenworth County. Six cases are listed in Nemaha County while five are confirmed in Pottawatomie County. According to state health officials, the cases in those two counties involve the one same variant in both.

As of May 15, Atchison County had a total of 15 active coronavirus cases, with one hospitalized.

Update: the camper has been found in St. Joseph

(KNZA)--Information is being sought in connection with the theft of a camper from Horton's Mission Lake.

The 2006 Frontier camper was taken from the west side of the lake sometime between Monday, May 17 and Friday, May 21.

It is 23-25 foot long, white in color, with tan and burgandy trim. It has a buffalo with Frontier emblems and a Doniphan County tag. The camper also has an awning.

Anyone with information on the theft is urged to contact the Horton Police Department at 785-486-2694.

(KNZA)--A reception is planned Wednesday afternoon ( May 26)  for Dr. Julie Rosa, who is moving to a new chapter in her life after practicing medicine in Hiawatha for 23 years.

The public is invited to drop by the Amberwell Primary Care Clinic lobby for a reception from 4-6 to wish Dr. Rosa well on her next chapter. Light refreshments will be served.

Dr. Rosa has announced she is closing her practice in Hiawatha, effective Friday, May 28.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission is offering a reward for information on the recent rash of criminal damage to road signs in the county.

The Commission voted Monday to offer an up to $250 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible.

Commission Chairman Rich Lehmkuhl suggested last week that a reward be offered.

In other business, Lehmkuhl discussed a bridge located at 220th and Mulberry Roads that is need of emergency repairs.

County Attorney Kevin Hill suggested the commission do an expedited bid letting for the bridge, with a provision of expediting the start date as well.

Road and Bridge Secretary Tami Lehmkuhl will publish the bid letting immediately.

Bids will be opened June 1, with a start date of June 15.

County Clerk Dawn Boyles discussed extending the hours of operation at the county landfill on two weeknight evenings and closing on Saturdays. Commissioner Bill Pollock said he would like to see the landfill open at least one Saturday a month. Commissioner Lamar Shoemaker said he would like to look at the number of customers being served each day.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission is offering a reward for information on the recent rash of criminal damage to road signs in the county.

The Commission voted Monday to offer an up to $250 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individual or individuals responsible.

Commission Chairman Rich Lehmkuhl suggested last week that a reward be offered.

In other business, Lehmkuhl discussed a bridge located at 220th and Mulberry Roads that is need of emergency repairs.

County Attorney Kevin Hill suggested the commission do an expedited bid letting for the bridge, with a provision of expediting the start date as well.

Road and Bridge Secretary Tami Lehmkuhl will publish the bid letting immediately.

Bids will be opened June 1, with a start date of June 15.

County Clerk Dawn Boyles discussed extending the hours of operation at the county landfill on two weeknight evenings and closing on Saturdays. Commissioner Bill Pollock said he would like to see the landfill open at least one Saturday a month. Commissioner Lamar Shoemaker said he would like to look at the number of customers being served each day.

(KMZA)--A milling and overlay project began Monday on U.S. 36 Highway in Nemaha County.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, the work covers about 14 miles from the junction with K-63 in Seneca to Acord Road.

KDOT says traffic will be restricted to one lane in the work zone and will be directed by a pilot car, flaggers, signs and cones. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes and add extra time in their travel schedules.

Work will take place Monday through Saturday, during daytime hours.

Hall Brothers, Inc., of Marysville is the contractor on the $2 million project.  The project is expected to be completed by late June, weather permitting.

(KLZA)-- The Tecumseh Aquatic Center is going to open Monday, May 31 at 1:00 p.m.

The Grand Opening for the new Aquatic Center starts off with a ribbon cutting ceremony just before the 1:00 p.m. opening.  The project was completed last year, but due to COVID-19 restrictions, did not open.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau reported to the Commissioners last week that the recent scrap tire collection events in Humboldt and Falls City resulted in 101.38 tons of tires being collected. 

48 persons brought tires to the Humboldt site and 141 persons brought tires to the Falls City site with more than 4,400 tires disposed of.  

The County will request reimbursement from the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality in an amount of nearly $11-thousand.  

On a 2-1 vote with Commissioner David Sickel casting the nay vote the Board approved having the Road and Bridge Department work four, 10-ten hour days during the summer, beginning May 24th with the exception being the weeks that contain a paid holiday.

Sickel stated that he feels the taxpayers in Richardson County need to have the support on the roads at least for the five days during the week.

Commissioners took no action on a request from the County Employee Health Insurance Committee to fund a portion of the spouse, children and / or family health insurance coverage for county employees.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau reported to the Commissioners last week that the recent scrap tire collection events in Humboldt and Falls City resulted in 101.38 tons of tires being collected. 

48 persons brought tires to the Humboldt site and 141 persons brought tires to the Falls City site with more than 4,400 tires disposed of.  

The County will request reimbursement from the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality in an amount of nearly $11-thousand.  

On a 2-1 vote with Commissioner David Sickel casting the nay vote the Board approved having the Road and Bridge Department work four, 10-ten hour days during the summer, beginning May 24th with the exception being the weeks that contain a paid holiday.

Sickel stated that he feels the taxpayers in Richardson County need to have the support on the roads at least for the five days during the week.

Commissioners took no action on a request from the County Employee Health Insurance Committee to fund a portion of the spouse, children and / or family health insurance coverage for county employees.

(KAIR)--Although a June deadline approaches, only five candidates, mostly incumbents, had filed as of Friday, to seek one of numerous positions up for election this year in the Atchison County area.

According to the Atchison County Clerk's Office, three positions are up for election on the City of Atchison Commission, while the cities of Effingham, Huron, and Muscotah will decide who serves as Mayor as well as five council members. Lancaster voters will select their Mayor as well as two council members. In Atchison County area school board elections, the Atchison Public Schools of USD 409 has 4 at-large positions open for election, while the Atchison County Schools of USD 377 has three positions, numbers four, five, and six, to be determined by voters.

County Clerk Michelle Phillips on Friday told MSC News Jesse Greenly, appointed in June, 2020 to fill an unexpired term, has filed to seek election to the Atchison City Commission.

Two candidates, both incumbents, have filed for the open seats on the Effingham City Council, with David Lowe and Kirk Wohlgemuth seeking reelection.

Two have filed to serve on the USD 409 Board of Education, with incumbent Carrie Sowers joined by newcomer Chuck Tilton in seeking open seats.

Candidates seeking positions on the Atchison City Commission will pay a filing fee of $70, while those seeking seats on local school boards will pay $20.

The deadline to file is noon June 1.

If a primary election is needed, due to the number of filings for the open seats, it will be held Tuesday August 3, while the general election is set for Tuesday, November 2.

(KAIR)--A possible head injury sent an Atchison woman to the hospital Sunday following a noon hour wreck in rural Atchison County.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 19-year-old Abbiegayle Dame was driving in the 5000 block of U.S. Highway 73 when her Chevy Cruze was rearended by a Ford F150 pickup truck as Dame slowed down to turn onto 258th Road.

Dame was transported to Atchison’s Amberwell for treatment.

The 19-year-old driver of the truck, and his 15-year-old passenger, were not hurt.

The wreck happened around 12:30 Sunday afternoon.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has renewed the city's policy with Blue Cross and Blue Shield for employee health and dental insurance coverage.

The Council took the action during their May 19 meeting.

The city will see at 10.1 percent premium decrease, which is being attributed to some minor changes.

The renewal date for the insurance is August 1.

On the recommendation of Recreation Director Erin Tobey, the Council approved wage increases for Aquatic Center staff.  Concession workers will start at $7.25 an hour, lifeguards at  $8.24 an hour, and assistant pool managers at $9.50 an hour.  The pool manager will be paid $15 an hour.  Logan Frost has been hired as the pool manager for the 2021 season.

The pool is to open Memorial Day weekend.

The Council accepted a $2,750 donation from the Seneca Girls Softball Association for the purchase of two pitching machines.

In addition, the Council voted to contribute $1,000 toward of the cost of bringing Kansas City Chiefs play-by-play announcer Mitch Holthus to town as a special speaker on June 11 for the city's 150th + 1 Celebration. The celebration had originally been scheduled for last June but was rescheduled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation will conduct a field survey for a proposed bridge replacement on K-63 Highway in Nemaha County over Turkey Creek, about one mile south of the K-63/K-71 junction.

KDOT says the survey is to gather information that is necessary for the detailed design of the proposed improvement.

It will begin on or about Tuesday, May 25, and is estimated to be completed by June 25.

KDOT says a member of the survey crew first will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property.

Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor.

(KNZA)--A Saturday night Jackson County traffic stop led to the arrest of a Kansas City, Missouri woman on firearms charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy stopped a car near 134th and U.S. 75 Highway for a traffic infraction around 10:30.

The passenger, 36-year-old Ciara Henry, was subsequently arrested for being a felon in possession of a firearm, criminal use of a weapon, and transporting an open container.

Henry was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KNZA)--A Jackson County traffic stop leads to the arrest of two Topeka men on theft and drug charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said his office received a report Friday afternoon that a theft suspect from the day before had returned to the Holton Wal-Mart store.

Deputies responded to the store and after the suspects left the store, a Jackson County deputy stopped the suspect’s vehicle just south of Banner Road on US 75 Highway.

Morse said deputies located a number of items believed to be stolen, including a large quantity of electronic products and clothing. Deputies also located alleged drug contraband.

The driver, 31-year-old Shane Heslet, was arrested for theft, possession of stolen property, trespassing, possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

The passenger, 25-year-old Andrew Meyer, was arrested for theft, possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Both men were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

The stolen items were returned to Wal-Mart.

(KAIR)--A possible head injury sent an Atchison woman to the hospital Sunday following a noon hour wreck in rural Atchison County.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 19-year-old Abbiegayle Dame was driving in the 5000 block of U.S. Highway 73 when her Chevy Cruze was rearended by a Ford F150 pickup truck as Dame slowed down to turn onto 258th Road.

Dame was transported to Atchison’s Amberwell Hospital for treatment.

The 19-year-old driver of the truck, and his 15-year-old passenger, were not hurt.

The wreck happened around 12:30 Sunday afternoon.

(KAIR)--No comments from the public were heard when the Atchison County Commission last week held a public hearing as they look to federal coronavirus related funds to assist small businesses in the county.

(KLZA)--Auburn Mayor Dan White and the Board of Health met in public session to hear from the City Physician and the Director of The Southeast District Health Department. After the meeting Mayor White rescinded his proclamation ordering the wearing of face masks in indoor public places in Auburn that he signed on November 25th 2020.

(KAIR)--Developed “to provide the public with an understanding of local government operations, programs, and services,” the City of Atchison next month will host a Citizens’ Academy.

According to a release, the program returns following a summer 2020 hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, with Atchison City Manager Becky Berger, in the release, calling it “a great program for citizens to learn more about the inner workings of the City and how they themselves can participate” in the local government.

The five week program, the release notes, “offers an overview of the City of Atchison's governmental structure, public safety, neighborhood and business services, public works, and utilities,” with participants to “receive in-depth knowledge from government officials about their departments and functions” through informative presentations and hands-on experiences.

The class will be held each Wednesday evening, from 5:30 to 7:00, at Atchison City Hall, with the classes scheduled for June 16, June 23, June 30, July 7, and July 14. A graduation ceremony for participants who complete at least four of the five classes will be held during the City Commission’s Monday, July 19 meeting.

The program is free and open to all Atchison residents over the age of 16, with meals to be provided at every session.

Citizens’ Academy applications can be found at some local Atchison businesses and on the City of Atchison website.

Applications can be submitted through mail at 515 Kansas Ave, in Atchison, or emailed to City Clerk Juile Behler at julieb@cityofatchison.com.

The deadline to apply is June 8th.

(KNZA)--A high nitrate warning has been issued for water customers of the city of Highland.

According to a release issued by the city Saturday,  a water sample collected on May 3rd showed a nitrate level of 11 milligrams per liter, which above the federal maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per liter.

The release says customers are advised not to give the water to infants or use it to make infant formula, as children below the age of 6 months could become seriously ill.
In addition, the water should not be boiled.

Adults and children older than six months can drink the water. However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.

The release says the city of Highland will provide, free of charge, an alternate source of drinking water for all infants less than six months of age, nursing mothers of infants less than six months of age, pregnant women, and other at-risk customers as identified by a health care provider.

The release adds the city is reviewing all available options, including seeking funds for a water treatment plant, so the system can return to compliance as soon as possible.

HOLLENBERG, Kan. (AP) — Kansas authorities say a Nebraska man died when he was intentionally hit by a car during an argument with the driver.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation says officers were called Thursday to a home in Hollenberg, in northeast Kansas. Deputies found 32-year-old James Hicok, of Steele City, Nebraska, dead in a street.

The KBI says a preliminary investigation indicates Hicok and another man argued with the driver of a car that drove by the home several times. The KBI says investigators believe the driver, 25-year-old Aaron Milldyke of Hollenberg, intentionally hit Hicok.

Milldyke is being held in the Washington County jail on a possible charge of second-degree murder. 

(KAIR)--A Seneca native, and graduate of Benedictine College, becomes a full time math teacher for the Atchison Public Schools.

According to a release from USD 409, Rachael Baumgartner is no stranger to the Atchison schools, having served as a substitute teacher for the district, who also student taught at the Atchison Middle School, where she will teach eighth grade math for the 2021-2022 school year.

Baumgartner, a first-year teacher, attended school in Seneca prior to attending Atchison’s Benedictine College where she played basketball.

Baumgartner, in the release, says she is excited for the opportunity to learn and gather more experience during her first year of teaching, saying she feels “blessed” to work with the eighth grade students in the coming school year.

(KNZA)--An additional candidate has filed for one of three positions up for election in November on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reported Friday that Jeff Moore has filed for position 6, which is currently held by Keith Erdley.

Moore joins John Hoschouer and Jim Robidoux in seeking the position.

Also up for election are the positions currently held by John Wright and Andrea Groth.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three candidates file for a position.

(KLZA)-- The Summer Lunch Club is up and running in Humboldt serving all children in the area.

Babies to high school graduates are fed for free, Monday through Friday from 11:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.  Meals are served at the Humboldt United Methodist Church basement at 340  South Nemaha Street. 

Food will also be delivered to Table Rock and Dawson town parks daily if requested.  You will need to call by 9:00 A.M. for meals delivered.  

In Dawson call Diane James at 402-862-5263.  In Table Rock contact Debbie Blecha at 402-852-6510.

Adult caregivers can also eat the Methodist Church in Humboldt. A $4 donation is requested for the caregivers meal. 
 

(KLZA)-- A Sunrise Beach, Missouri woman is facing drug possession charges in Richardson County following her arrest Thursday afternoon in Humboldt. 

Shortly before 2:30 p.m. Richardson County Deputies noticed a suspicious vehicle parked at the Lake Park in Humboldt.

Following further investigation 30-year-old Amanda Goodlander was arrested for possession of substances suspected to be methamphetamine and concentrated THC,  possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of less than one ounce of marijuana.  

Goodlander was housed at the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center.  

(KAIR)--As discussion continues in Doniphan County regarding the possible establishment of a county wide ambulance district, one rural fire district in the county has moved to outsourcing staff as its director heads toward retirement.  

Ken Stewart, of Doniphan County’s Fire District 2, told KQ2-TV a contract has been established with American Medical Response, a nationwide EMS company, with an office in Topeka, to assist with staffing needs.  

Stewart, who has spent more than two decades with the County, plans to retire this summer, ending his years of leadership as the study to asses the feasibility of establishing the county wide ambulance district continues.

 The Doniphan County Commission in March voted to enter into an agreement with the consulting firm Fitch and Associates, of Platte City, Missouri, to perform the study at a cost not to exceed $13,000.  

In April, Eric Tracy, Chairman for the Board of Fire District Number 2 told the Commission the fire district was in immediate need for staff, explaining that on June 1, the Fire District will see a 60-percent reduction in staff.

 Stewart told the TV station the matter is a reflection of rural EMS services nationwide, saying that while “it would be great to be back at the local level,” “that’s just not happening in the state of Kansas or nationwide.”

(KMZA)--Nemaha Central students finished the school year this week wearing face masks despite the urging of patrons at last week's USD 115 Board of Education meeting to change the district's policy.

Troy Lewis and Steve O'Neil asked the Board to make masks “ recommended” instead of mandated for the few days remaining of the school year.

Following discussion, a motion by Board President Jason Hammes, and seconded by John Deters, to lift the mandate on May 12 for grades K-8 was defeated on a 3-4 vote.

Board members then unanimously approved a motion by Dave Clements to remove the district mask mandate, effective June 1.

In other business, Zach Snethen with HTK Architects, of Topeka, presented information about possible improvements at Nemaha Central Schools both long range and short range.

The Board voted to enter into an agreement with the architectural firm to develop facility plans for an initial fee of $27,000.

(KAIR)--Thursday afternoon’s rain is blamed for an Atchison crash that sent an Effingham man to the hospital.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, police officers responded to the 1300 block of South U.S. Highway 73, shortly after 4:30 Thursday afternoon, following the report of a two vehicle wreck.

According to Wilson, a northbound Nissan Sentra hydroplaned, due to the rain, and crossed the median into the southbound lanes of the highway where it was struck by a Honda SUV.

A passenger in the Nissan Sentra, 28-year-old Keith Damon, had to be freed from the wreckage with the removal of one of the car’s doors through the use of the Atchison Fire Department’s Jaws of Life. He was transported by Atchison County EMS to Amberwell for hospital treatment.

The two drivers were not hurt.

Wilson said all three were buckled up at the time of the crash.

(KAIR)--The Atchison County Sheriff’s Office is seeking a vehicle possibly connected to the theft of tools.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, Vector Construction, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, reported Monday that hand tools and equipment had been stolen from 15662 258th Road, in Cummings, the location of Cargil.

The report states that the theft occurred around 7:00 on the morning of May 15.

According to Laurie, an unknown suspect was driving a Ford 450 flatbed dually pickup truck, with a fuel tank in the truck bed.

Anyone with information related to the case should call the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office at 913-804-6080.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council waived the three reading rule Monday night to adopt an ordinance on final reading to amend the speed limit on Harlan Street, which is Highway 73 on the norther section of the city limits. 

The speed limit will be reduced to 50 miles-per-hour from a point 1,200 feet north of 26th Street to a point on the north connection of Bill Schock Boulevard which is the north edge of the city limits. 

Once the Nebraska Department of Transportation receives documentation of the change,  the Department of Roads will install all appropriate signs along the highway.

Council member Derke Leyden commended the efforts of fellow Council member Mitch Merz for leading the effort to get the change made.  

Merz gave credit to State Senator Steve Erdman of Scottsbluff for his help in making the change possible. Erdman proposed the legislation that allows cities to have control of the speed limit on state highways within the city limits.  

Merz said after not receiving assistance from local representatives he reached out to Erdman and got results within 24 hours. 
There have been several wrecks at the intersection of 35th  Street and Highway 73 in recent years.              

(KMZA)--A new Nemaha County road and bridge/solid waste supervisor has been named.

Following an executive session at their meeting on Monday, the Nemaha County Commission voted unanimously to offer the position to Adam Kuckelman effective back to April 21. Kuckelman will be paid an annual salary of $74,437.

He has been serving as interim supervisor since the retirement of Dennis Ronnebaum, which was effective March 19.

In other business, Kuckelman informed commissioners he has hired Jerry Morrison to fill the mechanic position in the Road and Bridge Department. Morrison began work May 10 at a salary of $20.89 an hour.

Kuckelman also told commissioners that Centralia Cemetery District #7 has paid to chip and seal a ¼ mile stretch of 92nd Road that leads to the Centralia Public Cemetery and will continue to pay the county to maintain the stretch of road as a black top road.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man will spend life in prison for molesting a child.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 49-year-old James Hansen was sentenced Wednesday in Leavenworth County District Court. His sentencing follows his conviction for aggravated indecent liberties with a child under the age of 14.

Hansen must serve a minimum of 25-years in prison before he becomes eligible for parole.

The charges were filed in October of last year by the Leavenworth County Attorney’s Office after a young boy “disclosed that Hansen had inappropriately touched him.”

According to the release, Hansen admitted his guilt when interviewed by a Leavenworth Police Detective.

The release notes that Hansen’s attorney, prior to sentencing, filed a motion requesting a lesser sentence. It was argued by the State, which calls Hansen “a danger to society,” and denied by the Court.

(KAIR)--Community input continues to be gained regarding future mascots for the Atchison Public Schools.

That comes as a committee is formed to study the issue following the USD 409 Board of Education’s unanimous vote in April to retire the Atchison Middle School’s “Braves” mascot and Atchison High School’s “Redmen” mascot due to cultural insensitivity towards Native-Americans.

The 30 person committee’s first meeting was held Tuesday, intended for the members to assess the results of a recent community survey asking respondents whether multiple mascots should be used at various grade levels, or if the district should use one mascot for all levels.

On Wednesday, another survey was released online, asking for community input into the mascot/color scheme.

The survey asks respondents to provide their input on the new 6-12 or K-12 mascot, with the first question stating that “the committee has narrowed down suggestions of a unified mascot,” and explains that “a unified mascot would not be the Aviators name from the Atchison Elementary School” if a unified mascot for K-12 is ultimately chosen. Respondents are asked to select whether a unified mascot should be chosen for grades K-12 or grades 6-12.

Another of the several questions asks “should USD 409 have a Unified Color Scheme,” clarifying that red and gold will be the colors used if a unified color is selected.

The final question asks for input regarding a possible mascot name, with the survey stating that “all names have to fit the guidelines of the USD 409 non-discriminatory policy,” and that “names that are culturally and racially insensitive will not be considered appropriate suggestions for the committee’s consideration.”
Atchison High School Principal Lacy Warren, in an email sent to MSC News Wednesday, said the survey is the second in the process and will be open from now until May 31.

The survey can be found here.

The mascot input committee is comprised of three school board members, various numbers of school administrators, teachers, students, parents, and community members.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board, during a special meeting Wednesday morning, further discussed a funding request for the construction of an indoor practice facility at Noble Park.

The Hiawatha Baseball and Softball Club has asked USD 415 for $200,000 to be used towards the construction of the estimated $300,000 facility.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser checked into the legalities and logistics of providing funding to the Club. Moser explained the only way for the district to provide funding is through a lease agreement with the Club. The lease would pay for use of the building by the district.

After some discussion, the Board asked Moser to meet with a member of the Club to work on a sample lease for the Board to review at a future meeting.

In other business, the Board reviewed the bid specifications for selling the Hawthorne house. The Board voted to approve for publication the notice of the sealed bid process for the house.

Bids will be due to the board office on June 14.  They will be opened that afternoon at 2:00 and reviewed by the board at their regular meeting that evening.

The succcesful bidder will have to move the house from its current location by September 1, 2022.

An open house is planned next Thursday,May 27, from 10 am to 6 pm for prospective buyers to view the property.

The Board also approved the hiring of Jeanie Teal-Wege as the new Hiawatha High School agriculture teacher.

(KLZA)-- Representatives of the Humboldt and Verdon Fire Departments and the Humboldt Ambulance Squad met with the Richardson County Commissioners  Tuesday, airing their feelings concerning recent discussions between  Richardson County and Falls City concerning the future of 911 dispatching.  

Phil Hitchcock, the Verdon Fire Chief and President of the Richardson County Mutual Aid Association said the groups feel left out of the conversation about the current dispatching system.  He said the various departments work throughout the county and are not happy with the current dispatch system and feel it's time for a change. 

Hitchcock and others offered several instances where dispatching was an issue and said with the amount of technology available, he is concerned if there is enough training for the dispatchers.

The group said they wanted to meet with the Board to make sure they knew of their concerns with the current system.

Trent Phillips with the Humboldt Fire Department raised concerns about Falls City dispatchers not being well versed on roads and directions in rural parts of the county. He said with the Sheriffs Office working the entire county, it would be a benefit to having the Sheriff's Department do the dispatching.

Phillips also feels when concerns have been raised in the past about dispatching issues, they have not been dealt with.  He said that he feels Commissioners would be more responsive to the needs of the taxpayers since Falls City does not receive tax funds from outside of Falls City. 

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reiterated that he is not concerned about where the 911 dispatching center is located as long as it is under one roof.

Commissioners thanked everyone for their opinions.  Hitchcock and Phillips both said they are considering bringing their concerns to the Falls City, City Council.  

(KNZA)--A temporary power outage is planned for some customers of Brown-Atchison Electric Cooperative.

General Manager Jim Currie says customers in the Netawaka, Circleville, Whiting and Wetmore areas should be prepared for the temporary outage at midnight on Thursday ( May 20).

Currie said the power outage is expected to last only 15 to 20 minutes and is being done by Evergy as they perform a switchover of a new power substation.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission on Monday approved a resolution declaring its support of the 2nd Amendent to the U.S. Consitution.

Commissioner Bill Pollock made the motion to approve the resolution, which was seconded by Commissioner Lamar Shomaker, and approved on an unanimous vote.

Pollock had asked County Attorney Kevin Hill to draft the resolution.

He requested that the resolution be approved in memory of Roy Johansen, of Hiawatha.

Johansen died April 25 just days after he, along with others, suggested that Brown County reaffirm its support of the 2nd Amendment.

Other neighboring counties have approved similar resolutions.

In other business, Brown County Appraiser Steve Markham introduced the new data collector in his office, Brittnay Johnson.

(KNZA)--South Brown County USD 430 has received a $25,000 anonymous donation to put towards the start up a baseball and softball program at Horton High School.

The USD 430 Board of Education voted to accept the donation during their regular meeting May 10.

The Board during a special meeting on April 21 voted to move forward with implementing a baseball and softball program for the 2021-22 school year.  

In other business, the Board approved the hiring a new 6-8 technology teacher.

Connie Hutfles was hired to replace longtime teacher Rod Clay, who is retiring after more than 40 years with the district.

The Board also approved Charles Hutfles to serve as middle school athletic director to replace Clay.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha high school senior has received the Dale Dennis Excellence in Education Award, sponsored by United School Administrators of Kansas .

High School Principal Lori Fordyce announced last Friday that Kate Madsen has demonstrated the characteristics necessary to receive the annual award given in honor of the longtime Kansas educational leader.

Dennis retired as deputy commissioner of the Kansas State Department of Education in September of last year after serving the state and its students for 53 years.

Recipients of the award are identified from their schools and across the state as individuals who have displayed the citizenship, community and schools service, scholarship, and strong self-awareness that make them a quality individual.

The award was established in 1996 by Kansas school administrators to honor the long and valuable service Dennis has provided to the students and educators of Kansas.

The individual attributes which characterize Dennis as a friend of education, and more importantly as a first class citizen, are the basis for determining the recipient of the award. 

(KNZA)--An additional candidate has filed for a position up for election in November on the Horton City Commission and for a position on the Hiawatha School Board.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports Tina Nigh filed Tuesday for the position of Commissioner of Finance on the Horton City Commission.

Nigh joins incumbent Ken Krug in seeking the position.

Also the County Clerk's Office says Andrea Groth filed Tuesday to retain position five on the Hiawatha School Board.

Groth was appointed last year to the position following the resignation of Dr. Pete Rosa.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three candidates file for a position.

(KLZA)-- During the recent commencement ceremony at Peru State College,  several awards were presented in addition to the diploma's to graduates. 

Joseph “Seph” Fauver, a Peru State Graduate was presented the 2021 Distinguished Service Award which honors significant contributions to the College or an alumnus who has achieved distinction and recognition in his or her field.

Dr. Fauver has applied his expertise in genomics and genomic epidemiology to protect communities by studying the transmission of the COVID-19. This expertise put him at the front lines of the efforts to fight the pandemic. 

Last summer Fauver reached out to provide guidance as Peru State prepared for fall classes on campus.  He continues to provide weekly guidance by phone and has helped direct resources to the most impactful practices to provide a safe environment for the campus community.  

In addition, Pam and Fred Robertson received the 2020 Distinguished Service Award.  Pam was a former co-director of the Peru State College Foundation Board and directed proceeds from her friend Norma Jeanne Fensler to create the Norma Jeanne Fensler Memorial Scholarship at Peru State College which will provide more than $80-thousand in scholarships this year.  

The scholarships are to allow students who would not otherwise be able to attend college the opportunity to attend Peru State and seek a degree.

The2021 Teaching Excellence Award Winner is Dr. Gul Ahmad, Associate Professor of Biology.  He was selected by the Nebraska State College of Trustees as the 2021 Teacher Excellence Award recipient for the Nebraska State college System. 

In addition, Dr. Darolyn Seay, Associate Professor of Education was honore with the 2020 Teaching Excellence Award.  She has been a member of the Peru State College faculty since 2008.  

(KLZA)-- The number of COVID-19 cases within the Southeast District Health Departments five-county jurisdiction continues a downward trend.

In the past 30 days there have been 75 new cases reported in the district including eight of them in Richardson County. 

SEDHD Director Grant Brueggemann said during the weekly Richardson County Covid update from Community Medical Center that 45.75 percent of the residents in the five-counties that make  up the  health district have been fully vaccinated. 

Community Medical Center CEO Ryan Larsen said the hospital in Falls City is continuing to administer vaccinations to those wanting them. Pfizer doses for  children 18 and under are available.  To schedule a vaccination time call 402-245-6599. Written permission is required for children to receive the vaccine. 

Brueggemann said the Health Department is also providing vaccines at their office in Auburn. Clinics are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. with vaccination clinics held in Johnson County on Friday's. 

Those wanting to have their children under the age of 18 vaccinated at the Health Department office will need to be present with their children when they receive the vaccine. 

(KAIR)--Dog at large penalties increase in the City of Atchison following action of the Atchison City Commission Monday.

Prior to the unanimous vote approving the change, Vice-Mayor Allen Reavis said along with the financial increase, better enforcement is necessary. “I think we have a really big enforcement problem with this,” Reavis said, adding, “I have no problem raising the fees, but if we’re not enforcing it, we can make the fee $1 million and it doesn’t really matter.”

With the Commission’s approval now granted, fines will increase from $25 to $50 for the first offense, from $50 to $100 for the second offense, and from $100 to $200 for a third and subsequent offense. According to a release from the City, the fines are on top of actual boarding fees if a dog at large is picked up and boarded by animal control.

Commissioners Monday also approved some employee reclassifications, made necessary due to what the City’s release calls “organizational changes brought on by changes in staff.”

The release notes that Utilities Manager Mike Stec’s last day of employment was May 14, and rather than try to fill that position, the city has done some shifting of responsibilities in the public works and utilities departments. Existing department head Clinton McNemee is adding Utilities to his responsibilities and will now be the Public Works and Utilities Director. Seth Howard will move from Project Manager to a newly created Assistant Public Works Director to assist McNemee in supervisorial responsibilities. The Public Works Project Manager position will be unfilled.

Other organizational changes include promoting Water Plant Superintendent Jim Owens to Water and Wastewater Plant Manager. The Wastewater Treatment Superintendent position, which had been vacant for more than a month, was eliminated. An Administrative Services Project Manager position was created, in the place of the Community Development Office Manager position that had been vacant for almost a year. Also, a Solid Waste Operator position was changed to Solid Waste Lead Operator and a Fleet Maintenance Mechanic position was changed to Fleet Superintendent. J.W. Stewart was promoted from Solid Waste Operator to the new Solid Waste Lead Operator role and Rod Aversman was promoted from Fleet Maintenance Mechanic to Fleet Superintendent.

(KAIR)--A joint meeting between the cities of Atchison County, and the Atchison County Commission, focused on the proposed budget for the Solid Waste and Joint Communications, was held Monday evening.

Third District Atchison County Commissioner Casey Quinn provided what she called a rough draft of a possible interlocal agreement regarding distribution of the generated funds of the long-controversial, voter-approved, 1% county-wide sales tax to fund solid waste and joint communications.

About 45-minutes into Monday evening’s meeting, held at the Atchison Event Center, discussion took a turn, with Atchison City Manager Becky Berger saying the City of Atchison is not interested in moving forward with the current process of including solid waste into the equation.

Quinn discussed the County’s possibility of placing the matter into the hands of voters, with Berger saying the City has considered a vote to do away with the current sales tax.

Following a request for the City’s timeline for putting the matter up for a vote, Berger said there’s still room for discussion.

At the meeting’s conclusion, Berger credited Quinn with the work she’s done on the matter, with both sides to continue discussion in an effort to reach a conclusion and put the long-discussed matter to rest.

(KAIR)--Special recognition was given to students and staff alike during last week’s meeting of the Board of Education for the Atchison County Schools of USD 377.

Among those recognized was Noelle Walters, the 2021 Atchison Rotary Teacher of the Year.

Walters, a 30-year education veteran, received the honor based on what a release from the school district calls “her Leadership, Creativity and Innovation as a teacher, and her school and community service.”

Walters teaches Life and Integrated Science for the district, also serving as the Drama and Forensics coach, as well as the Student Council Sponsor for the Atchison County Community Junior Senior High School.

Some of Walters’ Forensic team members Wednesday also received recognition for State Championship honors they earned, including Seth Nehl who took 9th place at state in poetry interpretation and 4th place for Prose Interpretation.

Alexis Harris earned honors at the State Festival, gaining a I rating for Poetry Interpretation and a II rating for Prose Interpretation.

State Music competitors, as well as District FFA contest winners were also recognized.

A bus driver for the district also received recognition during Wednesday’s meeting, with Mike Wessel taking  1st place in the Rookie Conventional category at the state Bus Driver Competition, held May 1 in Effingham.

(KNZA)--An additional candidate has filed for one of three positions up for election in November on the Hiawatha USD 415 board of education.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports Roni Tietgens filed Monday for position 4, which is currently held by John Wright.

The positions currently held by Keith Erdley and Andrea Groth are also up for election.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three candidates file for a position.

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A 21-year-old Leavenworth man has been charged with first-degree murder in a shooting death in Leavenworth earlier this month. 

Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said Monday that Cordell Marqueise Stewart was charged in the death of 31-year-old Floyd Ross Jr.

Police responded to a report of shots fired in Leavenworth on May 4. They found Ross lying in the street suffering from gunshot wounds. He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared dead. 

(KNZA)--Construction of new passing lanes has begun on U.S. 75 Highway in Jackson County, north of Holton.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, the project is eight miles north of the K-16/U.S. 75 intersection and extends north about  two miles.

KDOT says northbound and southbound passing lanes are being added.

One lane in each direction will remain open to traffic for the duration of the project.

Work will take place Monday through Friday during daytime hours and is expected to be completed by April 2022, weather permitting.

Hamm Inc. of Perry is the contractor on the $4 million project.

(KAIR)--A propane leak is the likely cause of a Jackson County explosion that leveled a home, leaving one dead and one injured.

A release issued Monday by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse details investigation undertaken jointly by his office and the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Six facts are detailed in the release, with the first stating that “the explosion was not a result of a criminal act,” followed by five other facts, including confirmation that the explosion was caused by propane, a “sizeable amount of propane is believed to be missing from the home’s propane tank, which potentially leaked into the residence,” and that investigators believe that an unidentifiable leak occurred inside the home.

The fact that “little to no part of the residence remains intact,” “makes the investigation even more challenging,” the release states, noting that “it is unknown what the actual source was that ignited the explosion.”

Killed in the blast on the evening of May 10, at 27284 Q.4 Road, north of Holton, was 61-year-old Billy “ Lu” Griffiths, who served as director of the Banner Creek Lake. His wife, Teri, was seriously injured and airlifted to a Kansas City hospital. She is a teacher at Royal Valley High School.

The preliminary investigation shows that both were inside the home at the time of the early evening blast, with Monday’s release stating that an autopsy has been conducted “and investigators will be reviewing those results when they become available.”

Morse notes in the release that “an area around the residence was excavated for investigative purposes” on Friday, and that “further testing and investigation is expected to be conducted by the home owner’s insurance company.”

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman is in custody after allegedly hitting a man in the head with a metal bar.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 31-year-old Gabrielle Cline was arrested Saturday for aggravated battery and criminal damage to property.

That follows police being called Saturday afternoon to the 500 block of North 9th Street for the report of a domestic disturbance.

The 47-year-old victim was examined at the scene by Atchison County EMS, and later transported to the hospital by private vehicle for treatment.

It’s alleged that Cline damaged a door, as well as striking the man.

Following her arrest, she was transported to the Atchison County Jail.

In a second, unrelated case occurring Sunday, a 51-year-old Atchison man was arrested for threatening another man with a knife.

According to Wilson, 51-year-old Kelley Rutledge was taken into custody for aggravated assault.

That happened Sunday after police responded to a disturbance in the 600 block of South 5th Street.

The victim was not hurt.

Rutledge was located, and arrested, after having run from the scene.

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

(KAIR)--The chaplain of Benedictine College has been removed from ministry.

That follows Father Simon Baker’s disclosure to Saint Benedict’s Abbey leadership that he had engaged in what the Abbey calls “inappropriate conduct with an adult, female student at the college."

Following the disclosure, an internal review board determined the priest “displayed inappropriate affection and favoritism” toward the student, with the board recommending “that certain boundaries be placed on Father Simon, and that counseling and support be offered” to the student.

However, the Abbey says Father Simon was removed from his ministry because it was learned he was not complying with the boundaries that had been set.

According to the Abbey, additional reports have now been received that Father Simon “crossed physical and emotional boundaries in pastoral relationships with other adult women.” None of the reports involve minors or other criminal allegations.

A third-party investigation has been launched, and the priest is not allowed on the college campus pending the outcome.

Now, the college and the Abbey are asking that anyone who has information pertinent to the investigation, or who have been affected, to contact the victim’s advocate at 913-426-5769.

(KLZA)-- Fire destroyed a pickup in Falls City Saturday morning. 

The Falls City Volunteer Fire Department was called to 10th and Harlan Street at approximately 11:00 a.m.

Upon arrival,  firefighters found a 2021 Ford F-250 pickup owned by Jacib Rieger on fire. 

The dash had caught on fire and burned completely through the center of the pickup.  Fire fighters were able to use fire extinguishers to put the blaze out.  The cause of the blaze has not been determined.  
 

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Council discussed possible action that could be necessary to take due to what was described as overall poor work performance on the Pawnee  City Swimming Pool by Premier Pools and Spa's when they met last week. 

Council member Susan Eisenhouser reported she had visited with City Attorney Emily Sisco about the situation.  A letter was sent to the company and to Prochaska Associates, the project engineers, in hopes of getting a response on what the company intends to do about the issues so the City would not have to take them to court seeking damages.  As of the May 12th meeting there had been no response.

Eisenhauer intends to contact the Better Business Bureau about the company.  While part of the work was fine, there are parts of the job such as cold joints rising up that failed and flaking of the EcoFinish.  The city paid Premier Pools and Spas approximately $164-thousand for the pool project.  The pool was not opened in 2020, in part due to COVID-19 restrictions but also due to the flaking of the finish.

If the issue does to go court, the City will seek reimbursement for attorney's fees in addition to restitution.  

Eisenhauer also reported the City is having trouble getting kids to apply for the lifeguard positions at the pool this year.   

(KLZA)-- Two people are facing drug possession charges following their arrest by Richardson County Deputies shortly before 8:30 Sunday morning.

Deputies noticed a suspicious vehicle parked along Highway 75 with two people inside.  Following an investigation the two were arrested.

36-year-old Kenneth Hicks of Lincoln was arrested on warrants from Lancaster County and is also facing new charges of possession of methamphetamine,  possession of drug paraphernalia and driving under revocation.

24-year-old Casey Patterson of Winston Salem, North Carolina was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Both were transported to the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center.  

(KMZA)--Several additional candidates recently filed for positions up for election in November on school boards in Nemaha County.

On the Nemaha Central USD 115 Board, Troy Lewis filed for position 2. The position is currently held by Dave Clements.

Also Jason Kramer has filed for position 4, which is currently held by Joe Reitz.

The two positions are among four up for election this fall on the Nemaha Central Board.

On the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board, Stan Keim filed for re-election to position 2.

It's among three positions up for election in November on the USD 113 Board.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3 if more than 3 candidates file for a position.

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — Police say a suspect in a fatal shooting of a Leavenworth man earlier this month has surrendered to authorities.

Leavenworth Police Chief Pat Kitchens said in a statement that the suspect faces a charge of first-degree murder in the shooting of 31-year-old Floyd Ross Jr.

The identity of the 21-year-old suspect who surrendered on Friday was not immediately disclosed.  

The Kansas City Star reports that police responding to reports of shots fired at a city intersection on May 4 found Ross suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.   He was pronounced dead at a hospital.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Sheriff's Office is seeking the driver of a pickup truck involved in a hit-and-run accident early Sunday morning, north of Hoyt.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says a white Chevy pickup left the scene of an accident on 118th Road that occurred around 1:30.

Morse said the truck may possibly be a 2005 model. The truck should have heavy front end damage. The truck will be missing a passenger side running light assembly and a plastic lower bumper where the fog lights are located.

If anyone has any information, is urged to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.

(KAIR)--Increasing the punitive cost for dogs running at large in the City of Atchison will be explored, and possibly approved, when the Atchison City Commission meets Monday.

According to a document included with the meeting’s agenda, the related resolution would increase the financial penalty for dogs impounded for running at large from the current fine of $25 to $50. A second offense would increase from $50 to $100, and a third offense would rise from $100 to $200, plus boarding expenses.

According to the document, the current fees make it difficult for law enforcement, and the Atchison Municipal Court, “to hold dog owners responsible for not keeping dogs under control,” as “the current first fine is not acting as a detriment to prevent dogs from running at large.”

City Attorney Robert Campbell has requested “a more aggressive fine structure in an attempt to curb offenses.”

According to the City, the increased fines “would come closer to recouping expenses incurred dealing with dogs at large.”

The matter will be taken up when the City Commission meets Monday afternoon, at 4:30, at Atchison City Hall.

(KAIR)--The Doniphan County Health Department/Home Health has begun “collecting names and phone numbers of anyone 12 and older” needing to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.

That’s according to a news release from the agency, which says the free Pfizer Covid -19 vaccine is being made available to youths in the county, with anyone under the age of 18 requiring parental consent to have the vaccine administered. Parents and guardians wishing to do so should call 785-985-3591 or email health@dpcountyks.com. The health department does not plan to order doses until they “can determine the approximate number of those wishing to receive the vaccine.”

Preparing for the younger round of vaccinations follows Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s announcement Wednesday that the state will follow the guidance of federal health officials that the Pfizer vaccine is safe and effective for those aged 12 and older.

The Doniphan County health department, next month, will hold a vaccine clinic at their office, located at 201 S. Main Street, in Troy. The release says the clinic will be held on the afternoon of June 9, from 1:30 until 4:00, and is open to “all who wish to receive a vaccine including those 18 and older that may want the Johnson and Johnson or Moderna vaccine.”

The release notes that the Pfizer vaccine “is administered as a series of two doses, three weeks apart,” clarifying that those receiving the first shot at the June 9 vaccine clinic will need to receive the booster vaccine at a second vaccine clinic, scheduled for June 30, from 1:30 to 4:00.

The Kansas Health Department reported that 39.7% of all Kansans have received at least one dose of a vaccine as of Wednesday.

The Associated Press contributed to this story. 

(KNZA)--An additional candidate has filed for one of three positions up for election in November on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reported Friday that Jim Robidoux has filed for position 6.

Robidoux joins John Hoschouer in seeking the position currently held by Keith Erdley.

Also up for election are the positions currently held by John Wright and Andrea Groth.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three candidates file for a position.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee  City Council approved on first reading Monday night an amendment to the city water rates.

Randy Hellbusch with the Nebraska Rural Water Association met with the Council to review a new rate study on the sewer and water services.

Hellbusch said there was no changes proposed for the sewer rates,  but said with the City adding a water tower maintenance contract with Maguire Iron, there would be a need to increase the water rates. 

If approved on three readings, the water rate increases which will be made over a three-year period, would take effect October 1, of this year. 

Under the proposal the current $28 base fee plus $2 per 1,000 gallons of water used for a 3/4-inch meter would increase to $29.50 and $2.10 per 1,000 gallons on October 1.  The increase on October 1, 2022 will be an additional $1.75  for the meter base fee with the fee per 1,000 gallons of water increasing to $2.25. On October 1, 2023 the meter base fee will  increase $1.50 to $32.75 with the rate per 1000 gallons increasing to $2.35.

For out of town water customers the meter base fee increases $4.25 per month with the water charge increasing a dime.  In October 2022 the meter fee will increase to $46 per month with an additional 15 cents added to the water usage fee and on October 1, 2023 the meter base fee increased to $48.25 with the water usage fee climbing by an additional dime.

The tower maintenance agreement Pawnee City will be paying will be $47,296 annually for the next four years, then the annual maintenance fee will drop to $14,440 per year with an annual increase of approximately $600 thereafter.  

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Health Department/Home Health has begun “collecting names and phone numbers of anyone 12 and older” needing to be vaccinated against the coronavirus.  

That’s according to a news release from the agency, which says the free Pfizer Covid -19 vaccine is being made available to youths in the county, with anyone under the age of 18 requiring parental consent to have the vaccine administered.

Parents and guardians wishing to do so should call 785-985-3591 or email health@dpcountyks.com.

The health department does not plan to order doses until they “can determine the approximate number of those wishing to receive the vaccine.”

Preparing for the younger round of vaccinations follows Kansas Governor Laura Kelly’s announcement Wednesday that the state will follow the guidance of federal health officials that the Pfizer vaccine is safe and effective for those aged 12 and older.  

The Doniphan County health department, next month, will hold a vaccine clinic at their office, located at 201 S. Main Street, in Troy. The release says the clinic will be held on the afternoon of June 9, from 1:30 until 4:00, and is open to “all who wish to receive a vaccine including those 18 and older that may want the Johnson and Johnson or Moderna vaccine.”  

The release notes that the Pfizer vaccine “is administered as a series of two doses, three weeks apart,” clarifying that those receiving the first shot at the June 9 vaccine clinic will need to receive the booster vaccine at a second vaccine clinic, scheduled for June 30, from 1:30 to 4:00.  

The Kansas Health Department reported that 39.7% of all Kansans have received at least one dose of a vaccine as of Wednesday.

(KMZA)--Details have been released on a a single-vehicle Nemaha County wreck earlier this week that sent two individuals to the hospital.

According to the Nemaha County Sheriff's Offfice, it happened Sunday afternoon shortly before 2:00  on E Road, south of 132nd Road.

The Sheriff's Office says 48-year-old Michelle Wenger, of Centralia, was southbound when she lost control of her mini-van in the mud, causing it to leave the roadway and overturn.

Wenger and one of her passengers were transported to the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, in Seneca, for the treatment of unspecified injuries.

(KNZA)--The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education has voted to put a $7 million bond issue on the ballot to help cover the district's bigger capital outlay projects.

The board took the action in their regular meeting Monday evening following a lengthy discussion and after motions to place multiple questions on the ballot failed twice after ending in a 3-3 tie vote.

They included a question to replace the district's track and another to build an additional building behind the elementary school to be used as an extra curricular center with additional classrooms to hold pre-school and a day care facility.

Superintendent Jason Cline told MSC News they are still in the processing of working through all the details, but are aiming for the bond issue to placed on the November 2 general election ballot.

Cline said the majority of the $7 million bond issue would cover new windows, doors, outside restoration and updating of the HVAC units at all three buildings. In addition, he said part of the bond would cover some concrete repairs across the district and a roof replacement at the elementary School.

Cline said the last bond issue was approved in USD 430 in 1998 and was paid off in 2017.

With the last bond issue being over 20 plus years ago, Cline said they are in need of some additional support in helping to assure their buildings last another 20 years.

(KNZA)--An Atchison teacher has been hired as the new Sabetha Elementary School principal.

Prairie Hills USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans said the USD 113 Board of Education, during their regular meeting Monday evening, approved a two-year contract with Rusty Willis.

Willis has taught in Atchison Public Schools since August 2010—including 5 years as a 5th grade teacher and six years as a 8th grade English language arts teacher.

She has two bachelor's degrees—one broadcast journalism and the other in elementary education.

Willis has two master's degrees—one in education and the other in educational leadership and administration.

Evans said they are excited about the positive energy and valuable experience she will bring to Sabetha Elementary School.

She will replace Sarah Toedman, who is resigning after 21 years of service with the former USD 441 and USD 113—including six years as Sabetha Elementary School principal.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission heard more about a proposed recycling program when they meet Monday.

RJ Hamilton of Hamilton Recycling and Disposal, of Falls City, meet with the commission to further discuss the program he would like to start in Brown County and other neighboring counties as well.

Hamilton said he anticipates an overall budget of $140,000, which would be split among participating counties.

He said he is also looking at a cost-sharing of the revenue from the materials collected.

Drop off containers, provided by Hamilton, would be set up at locations in the participating counties.

Hamilton said he is looking at grants to help with the cost of the program.

The Commission took no action, with more information to be gathered.

Hamilton met with the Richardson County Commission last week to discuss the proposal and plans to reach out to other counties as well.

(KLZA)-- A southeast Nebraska man was found dead in his vehicle.

The Johnson County Attorney's Office, in a news release, said 44-year-old Dylan Little of rural Crab Orchard,  was found dead in his vehicle north of Crab Orchard Thursday morning. 

The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office along with the Johnson County Attorney’s Office is investigating his death. 

The release says it appears from the early stages of the investigation that Little suffered a medical episode while driving. 

An autopsy has been ordered and the investigation is ongoing. 

(KLZA)-- Community Medical Center in Falls City has the opportunity to receive doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine which is currently the only vaccine approved for ages 12 and older.

CMC will be able to administer the vaccine on Tuesday, May 18th, Wednesday, May 19 and Friday, May 21.

Pfizer is a two-does vaccine. The second does will be given on June 8 and June 11 at CMC.  There will be other opportunities in the future to receive the Pfizer vaccine if you are not available next week. 

If you are interested in your child receiving the vaccine or have additional questions, please call Jina Santo at 402-245-6599 to schedule a day and time for the vaccine.   

The deadline to make an appointment is Monday, May 17 at 9:00 A.M. 

(KAIR)--The Atchison County Community Schools of USD 377 join the movement to return to pre-pandemic protocols, with the Board of Education this week voting to make that step forward.

According to Dr. Andrew Gaddis, Superintendent for USD 377, the School Board’s Wednesday night vote “to rescind all reopening and COVID protocols effective at the end of the day on May 17,” means the final day of school, May 18, will not require the precautions that had been put in place to prevent the spread of the virus, meaning, as Gaddis puts it,  “school will be back to the way it was prior to the onset of COVID.”

Gaddis said the lifting of restrictions includes the wearing of face masks, which do not have to be worn as of the final day. 

On Thursday, one day after the Board's vote, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced, in a release, that Kansas is now following the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control, regarding those who are vaccinated. 

"Effective immediately, Kansas will adopt the CDC's latest guidance that fully-vaccinated Kansans are no longer required to wear masks indoors or outdoors or physically distance, except in circumstances such as those required by businesses, public transportation, or health care facilities," Kelly said in the release. "Should fully-vaccinated Kansans feel more comfortable wearing a mask, they are welcome to continue doing so."

 

(KAIR)--“Grab and go” meals will be offered to children through the Atchison County Schools of USD 377 beginning next month.

According to a release from the district, the summer meals will be made available for those aged 1 to 18, with any child eligible to “pick up a lunch and breakfast at the designated locations and times,” Monday through Thursday, beginning in June.

Pickup locations include the Efffingham Elementary west side bus lane, with the meals to be offered from 12 noon to 12:30 at that site. Meals will also be available at the Lancaster City Hall from 12:15 to 12:40 daily, as well as the Muscotah United Church and the Cummings Christian Church, with those two locations providing the meals from 12:20 to 12:40.

According to the school district, meals will not be delivered on Memorial Day, and will instead be delivered on Friday for that holiday week, with all meals transported in USD 377 vehicles.

The release notes that the school district “is committed to offering these meals at least through the month of June,” with the continuation of the program contingent on the month’s success.

(KAIR)--The sale of the USD 409 Central School could be one step closer to reality.

The USD 409 Board, at its regular May meeting on Monday, issued a notice of invitation for offers to purchase the school, and the property it sits on, at 215 N. 8th Street in Atchison.

During the meeting, Superintendent Dr. Renee Scott told board members the district has received some inquiries regarding the building and the property.

According to the formal notice, offers to purchase must be received at the board office on or before 12 noon on June 1st.

Scott said the board will then be able to review the bids for possible acceptance at their regular June meeting.

The central school is set to close at the end of this year, with excessive operating costs given as a primary reason for the closure.

The school serves approximately 45 to 50 students in grades K through 12. Those students will be relocated to the Roosevelt Building, located at the Atchison Middle School, beginning next school year.
 

(KAIR)--Atchison High School has gained a new Assistant Principal/Activities Director.

According to a release from USD 409, Mark Felvus was selected to fill the position.

A resident of Garden City, Kansas, Felvus brings to the role 20-years of education experience, including serving as Principal of the Garden City Alternate Education Center for the past three years. Prior to that position, Felvus worked as the high school counselor in Marion, Kansas.

According to the release, Felvus “has worked with all ages of students, teaching, counseling, coaching, and within administration,” with his coaching background including “youth sports as well as coaching middle school football, basketball, and track and high school women’s basketball and high school baseball throughout his time as an educator.”

During his time at the Marion school, Felvus “enjoyed the opportunity to promote Scholars Bowl, Forensics, and the Performing Arts.”

He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, K-9, from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2001, earning his Master’s in Counseling and Student Development from Kansas State University in 2011 and a Master’s in Building Administration from Emporia State University in 2017.

Felvus and his wife of 22-years, Jenny, are relocating to Atchison, along with their four children.

(KNZA)--A group is seeking a $200,000 financial commitment from the Hiawatha School Board towards the construction of an indoor practice facility at Noble Park.

Hiawatha Baseball and Softball Club representative Troy Kolb met with the School Board Monday evening to further discuss the group's request.

Kolb said the funding would serve as “seed money” toward the construction of the estimated $300,000 facility, which is the first phase of a proposed three-phase improvement project. It would also include a new softball field and upgrades to Paul Rockey Field.

The Hiawatha City Commission last week committed to a 25-year-old lease of the land for the building.

Kolb said the Club has secured some tentative monetary commitments, but most are waiting to see what the city and school district does before pledging.

He said they would like to break ground in October.

The Board looked at which capital outlay projects could be pushed to a future year in order to commit the $200,000 requested by the Club.

The Board made no decision on the funding request. Superintendent Lonnie Moser will check into the legalities and logistics of providing funding to the Club. The board will revisit the request at a special meeting next week.

(KLZA)-- Community Medical Center, Falls City, was recognized as one of the top 20 critical access hospitals in the nation by the Chartis Center for Rural Health in rankings recently announced by the National Rural Health Association. CMC had previously been announced as one of the top one hundred critical access hospitals for the fifth consecutive year, while this represents the third time during that span being honored in the top 20.

There are 1,350 critical access hospitals in the nation, all serving rural communities. The Chartis Center for Rural Health calculates a composite score after evaluating data for each of the nation’s rural hospitals in eight areas: inpatient market share, outpatient market share, quality, outcomes, patient perspective, cost, charges, and financial efficiency. Top 20 honorees were in the top 1.5% nationally.

Alyssa Finck, D.O., chair of the CMC medical staff, described the recognition by stating, “This award reaffirms that the exceptional patient care we provide here at CMC to our community each and every day is making a difference to the people we serve. The pride and dedication our staff has towards our patients makes me proud to be part of this organization.”

Similar sentiments were expressed by CMC governing board chairperson, Nicole Mason, Esq., “It is a great accomplishment for CMC to receive the designation of Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals in the U.S. for the third time. We are grateful to all the hospital staff, physicians, and administration who show up every day to give their best to our patients, even through a world-wide pandemic; this award is a direct testament to their efforts and dedication. The CMC Board congratulates every member of the CMC team on persistently earning this top achievement and thanks each CMC staff member for their unwavering commitment to caring for the health and well-being of our community.”

CMC administrator, Ryan Larsen echoed this theme by expressing pride in the work of staff to make the facility one that community members can count on. He indicated that while honors are appreciated, improvement is always the goal. An awards ceremony will be held during the National Rural Health Association’s annual Critical Access Hospital Conference in September in Kansas City, Mo

LINCOLN - The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles is aware of illegitimate text messages targeting Nebraskans purporting to be from a DMV office. These unsolicited messages are scams and are not sent by the Nebraska DMV or county treasurers’ offices.
The text messages are often unsolicited messages from unfamiliar phone numbers that claim the recipient either owes, or is owed, a large sum of money to a DMV office. The recipient is then directed to click a link. These links should not be interacted with and the message should be deleted as soon as possible.
The Nebraska DMV can under certain circumstances send text messages to customers, but only if the recipient voluntarily opts in. The DMV will also not send messages demanding payment or promising a refund.
 The DMV will not send unsolicited text messages demanding money or offering money.”
 

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education approved a 3.5 percent wage increase for classified staff members for the 2021-22 school year when they met Monday evening.  

The Board also approved a teaching contract for Mikala Hinrichs to teach 2nd Grade next school year.  The resignation of Nicole Fiegener as Title I Non-Public Teacher was also approved. 

Activity admissions for District 56 for the 2021-22 school year were approved for high school and middle school activities. Prices will be unchanged from the current year.  

The Board did approve eliminating fees for Falls City Public School students attending all regular middle school and high school activities and the Family Pass option was eliminated. 

Activities Director Don Hogue presented the extra-duty coaching assignments for the next school year.  Trista Hutchings will be the new Softball Coach replacing Joe Dunn.  Hutchings served as the Tigers assistant  coach last season.  
 

(ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (AP) — A third man has been sentenced for his role in a drive-by shooting that killed a 2-year-old St. Joseph girl.

The St. Joseph News press reports Te’Avion Hawkins pleaded guilty Wednesday to second-degree murder in the Aug. 9 death of Raelynn Craig. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Police say Hawkins was driving a vehicle when shots were fired at another vehicle, hitting Raelynn Craig who died from her injuries. Two adults in the car with the child were injured.

As part of the plea deal, Hawkins was given a shorter sentence because he helped identify his two co-conspirators.

One co-defendant, Caimon Stillman, was sentenced to 24 years in prison and another, Marcain Kimbrough-Ballard, was sentenced to 26 years.

Hawkins was also sentenced to four years for unlawful use of a weapon for a previous incident involving a gun.

(KNZA)--An additional candidate has filed for a position up for election in November on the Horton City Commission.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reported Wednesday that Bobby Bacon has filed for Commissioner of Streets and Utilities. Bacon previously served on the commission.

He joins Carmela Boller is seeking the position currently held by Wade Edwards.

Also up for election this November is the position of Commissioner of Finance, currently held by Ken Krug. Krug has filed for re-election.

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

The general election will be November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than 3 candidates file for a position.

(KMZA)--Wearing a face mask to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 is no longer " strongly recommended” in Nemaha County.

 The Nemaha County Commission voted Monday to rescind the public health order, which had been in place since January.  Commissioner Dylan Keim made the motion, which was unanimously approved by the commission.  

The commission took the action after an hour-long zoom meeting with County Health Officer Jane Sunderland and several Sabetha doctors.  Sunderland said she still supported the mask recommendation, even though the COVID numbers in the county are trending down.

 As of Tuesday, there were three active cases in the county and no hospitalizations.

(KNZA)--A new Hiawatha High School assistant principal and athletic director has been hired for the 2021-22 school year.

Following an executive session Monday evening, the Hiawatha School Board voted to hire Josh Mosher for the position.

Mosher currently serves as student support facilitator for Lawrence Public Schools.

He will replace Kim Lillie, who is moving to 6th grade language arts teacher.

Also following the closed-door session, the Board voted to hire Hiawatha High School graduate Josh May as the new middle School and high School vocal music teacher. May will replace Billy Hatfield, who has resigned.

In addition, Madeline Walker was hired as 7th grade math teacher.

As part of the consent agenda, the board accepted the resignations of Hatfield, Kylah Bateman as Middle School and High School band teacher, Ellen Blackwell as high school Agricultural teacher, Whitney McCauley as district nurse and Sheridan Hall as high school custodian.

(KAIR)--A Topeka man is jailed in Jackson County, arrested in connection with this week’s burglary of a home in Hoyt.

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, 29-year-old Cory Pruyser was taken into custody for burglary, theft, and criminal damage to property following the reported burglary late Tuesday morning.

Morse, in the release, says his office was called to 110 W. 1st Street, in Hoyt, around 10:30 Tuesday morning. When they arrived, deputies found that a window at the residence had been broken, with the homeowner reporting that a 65 inch flat screen T.V., a Play Station 4, and an electric sander had been taken.

An investigation involving the Sheriff’s Office, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Kansas Highway Patrol led investigators to Topeka where Pruyser, and the stolen items, were located.

(KAIR)--Motorists are facing another downtown Atchison street closure this week, as traffic on 5th Street, at the Commercial Street intersection, is diverted beginning now.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, the closure is due to the continuing construction work on the 500-600 Commercial Street Project.

The closure, which went into effect Wednesday, is expected to remain in place for several days.

According to the release, the 6th and Commercial intersection as well as the 7th and Commercial intersection will remain open during this closure, though both of those intersections will require more closures over the next couple of months as the project advances.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners received just one quote for the county general liability, E&O, workman's comp, auto and inland marine insurance coverage this year.

The Board awarded the coverage to Miller-Monroe Insurance Company of Falls City through the Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies when they met Tuesday.   

The quote for the coverage was $21,119 less than last year and will be in effect from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.

The workman's comp portion of the policy was just over $26-thousand less than last year.

Commissioners also met with the County Employee Health Insurance Committee to further review a request for the County to fund a portion of the spouse, children and/or family health insurance coverage for county employees.  Following a lengthy discussion the Board said they would consider the matter further and meet with the committee again during the May 18th Board meeting. 

Sheriff Rick Hardesty informed the Board that the K9 for the Sheriff's Department has arrived. Commissioners will travel to the Law Enforcement Center during next week's meeting for a demonstration. 

(KLZA)-- The Johnson-Brock School Board on a 3-2 vote approved the expenditure of $59,998 for new bleachers at the football field when they met Monday evening.  Casting nay votes were Board members Keith Bohling and Tom Teten. 

Superintendent Jeff Koehler told the Board there is a crew of volunteers ready to assist with the project. 

Congratulations were offered to the Board and the staff at Johnson-Brock for the work they did to make the 2020-21 school year possible. 

It was also noted that a School Safety Council meeting will be held June 28 and 29. Local law enforcement and fire and rescue members will be on the committee.

Koehler also noted he will be advertising to fill several vacant positions at the school for the 2021-22 school year.  

The Board also approved the appointments of Will Behrends,  Amy Oestmann and Keith Bohling to three-year terms on the Johnson-Brock Foundation Board during the meeting. 

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Education approved four resignations and a pair of new hires when they met Monday evening. 

Resignations were accepted from High School Math teacher Michael Anderson,  Middle School Science teacher Leah Wehenkel,  Middle School Guidance Counselor Michaela Yearly  and Pre-School Teacher and After school Program Director Amanda Reynolds.

Allysyn Molzahn-Paap was hired to teach Secondary Math and Trey Bardsley was hired as a half-time Computer Science Teacher and  support staff member. 

The Board also approved just over $120-thousand in purchase orders for the 2021-22 school year.

The Social Studies Material Adoption Budget in the amount of $83,000 was approved.

Elementary and Secondary handbooks have also been approved.

(KLZA)-- Falls City School Superintendent Tim Heckinlively informed Board members Monday night he estimates District 56 will receive nearly $2-million in ESSER II and III Federal funding.

The federal funds must be used for school renewal and acceleration of learning due to the COVID-19 impact. As the allocations and spending requirements become clearer,  District 56 leaders will consider the use of the funding and qualifying instructional and facility improvements.  Components to be considered include systems and facilities,  high-quality instructional materials / curriculum,  data systems, mental health initiatives, transportation, technology and teacher-school leader professional development. 

In the past week, Falls City Public School Leadership Team made recommendations that went into effect Monday, May 10.  They included returning to the “Green Planning Protocols”. Face coverings are optional for staff and students at school and during transportation and temperature checks at school entrances and getting on buses were eliminated. 

The school district will continue to monitor and evaluate the COVID-19 situation.  In the past 30 days there was one active COVID-19 case involving a Falls City Public School student and staff and five students were placed under a directed quarantine.  

(KMZA)--A new Seneca city clerk has been hired and the muncipal clerk position made full-time.

The City Council, during their May 5 meeting, voted to hire Michele Spring, of the Seneca area, to fill the position.

Spring will begin work May 24 at a starting salary of $18 an hour.

She was among four candidates interviewed.

Spring will fill the vacancy created by the resignation of long-time city clerk Jane Strathman, which was effective April 9.

Tami Haverkamp had been training to be city clerk, but was hired for the city administrator position.

The Council also voted to promote Angel O'Neil from part-time to full-time Muncipal Court Clerk, effective May 28 at a a starting salary of $18 an hour . 

The Council approved both actions in one motion on a 4-1 vote, with Council member Alice Lackey casting the lone dissenting vote.  Mike Stallbaumer was absent.

In other business, the Council voted to accept the low bid submitted by Honeyman Ford, of Seneca, for the purchase of a 2021 Ford F-150 pickup truck for the public work's department in the amount of $25,372, with trade-in of a 2002 Dodge truck. It was among two bids received.

(KNZA)--The first candiate has filed for one of three positions up for election in November on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reported Tuesday that John Hoschouer has filed for position 6, which is currently held by Keith Erdley.

Also up for election are position 4, currently held by John Wright, and position 5, currently held by Andrea Groth.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three people file for a position.

(KAIR)--Local area students are selected to join what Kansas Governor Laura Kelly calls an “elite group of Kansans.”

That comes as the annual selection of graduating seniors named to the Governor’s Scholars Program are announced, and among them are three graduating from Atchison area schools.

Jameson Parks, of Atchison High School, Sophia Hill, of Atchison’s Maur Hill-Mount Academy, and Rebecca Statler, of the Atchison County Community Schools, are among the state’s graduating seniors who finished in the top one percent of their high school graduating class.

Delanie Molt, of Horton, Christopher Raithel, of Pleasant Ridge, Kiana Jessepe, of Holton High School, Paige Deneault, of Jackson Heights, Hayley Harman, of Royal Valley High School, Katherine Madsen, of Hiawatha High School, Kinlee Whetstine, of Doniphan West, and Jude Conley, of Centralia, are among others locally, and statewide, named as Governor’s Scholars.
Kelly, in a message posted to YouTube, sent her congratulations to the Kansas seniors receiving the honor, saying that the already heavy educational responsibilities they faced to become a Governor’s Scholar were made more difficult by the coronavirus pandemic.

According to a release from Kelly’s office, the Governor’s Scholars Program “has been recognizing outstanding graduating seniors” for the past 38-years, funded by donations from private sector businesses in Kansas.

(KAIR)--A Tuesday afternoon fire at an Atchison feed facility sent heavy, dark smoke into the sky, and fire crews rushing to the scene, with the fire brought under control a short time after they arrived.

According to Atchison Interim Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, no one was injured, and no significant losses are reported, as a result of the fire at North Star Feeds, located at 1629 U.S. Highway 59.

Weishaar told MSC News the fire was under control as of 2:45 Tuesday afternoon, about 30 minutes after crews were called to that location.

According to Weishaar, fire crews, when they arrived on the scene, found insulation on a grain storage bin on fire, with the investigation showing that the fire began when a contractor, using a cutting torch, “accidentally ignited the spray-on type insulation.” The contractor was removing the old storage tank to make room for a new one.

Weishaar, in a release, said fire crews remained on the scene Tuesday afternoon “cooling the tank and other adjacent tanks to prevent any reignition.”

(KAIR)--The process of deciding what mascot, or mascots, will represent two Atchison schools will begin soon.

Plans to select replacements for the Atchison High School Redmen, and the Atchison Middle School Braves, were discussed during Monday’s meeting of the Board of Education for Atchison’s USD 409.

Included in the process will be the input of a 30-person committee, consisting of various school district stakeholders, with the group scheduled to meet next week to begin the steps necessary to select new mascots.

Announcement of the Committee’s formation came during a presentation, jointly made by Atchison High School Principal Lacy Warren and Atchison Middle School Principal Chad Bilderback, during Monday’s meeting, the first session of the Board since last month’s unanimous vote to remove the two Native American-themed mascots due to cultural insensitivity.

During their presentation, Warren and Bilderback suggested the school board appoint three of its members to serve on the Committee, with that suggestion earning school board favor, and leading to board members Sally Berger, Brandi Ross, and Stefanie Gardner volunteering to serve.

The committee also includes various numbers of school administrators, teachers, students, parents, and community members, although an exact breakdown was not provided, and names were not announced, during Monday’s presentation.

Regarding the selection of community members to serve on the Committee, Berger asked Warren how such members would be determined, with Warren explaining that she, and Bilderback, have selected those members from the district site council list, adding that different business members have also been asked to serve.

The committee’s first meeting will be Tuesday evening, May 18th, at 5:30, at the Atchison High School library.

Warren said the initial meeting will serve as a brainstorming session, with members assessing the results of a recent community survey asking respondents whether multiple mascots should be used at various grade levels, or if the district should use one mascot for all levels.

Warren said the meeting would also include a review of the district’s non-discriminatory policy, with additional community surveys to follow the initial meeting.

Although a precise timeline was not provided, Warren said recommendations regarding mascot replacements would be made to the school board following the third meeting of the committee.

Board member Sean Crittendon said he is looking forward to hearing from the kids, and said he was excited to see what comes out of the committee.

Member Diane Liebsch said she hoped they would be mindful about what’s going to be appropriate in the long-term, and look beyond what is trendy, when making their decision.

As for the cost of the mascot changes, Superintendent Dr. Renee Scott said she estimates it to wind up being around $20,000, a figure she believes is, quote – quite minimal.

According to Scott, a final board decision regarding the future of the district’s mascots will take place no later than the regular July board meeting.

Scott also said the district would invest money to preserve current Redmen memorabilia in a way that would allow alumni to have access to it.

(KAIR)--A Sunday evening Atchison altercation has led to the arrest of a 19-year-old Atchison man.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Jackson Phillips was arrested Sunday evening for aggravated battery in connection with what Wilson calls “an incident that occurred in a residence in the 1000 block of North 2nd Street” around 5:30 Sunday evening.

According to Wilson, “a group of young men were together in the residence when a disturbance began between” two of them, leaving a 19-year-old man choked and struck in the face with a fist.

Due to his injuries, the man was transported by private vehicle for hospital treatment, and later released, with Phillips arrested in connection with the crime.

Following his Sunday arrest, Phillips was booked into the Atchison County Jail, but was released from custody Monday on a $15,000 bond. His court appearance is scheduled for May 28.

(KLZA)-- A Falls City child is back home from a hospital stay following a car/pedestrian accident Saturday evening about 6:15. 

The Falls City Police report indicates that John McNeely of Falls City was traveling north in a car in the 1900 block of Barada Street when a five-year-old boy ran in front of the vehicle.

The child was initially transported to Community Medical Center and was later taken to the Omaha Children's Hospital for treatment of injuries.

No citations or warnings were issued as a result of the accident. 

(MSC News)--Area students are selected to join what Kansas Governor Laura Kelly calls an “elite group of Kansans.”  

That comes as the annual selection of graduating seniors named to the Governor’s Scholars Program are announced, and among them are three graduating from Atchison area schools.  Jameson Parks, of Atchison High School, Sophia Hill, of Atchison’s Maur Hill-Mount Academy, and Rebecca Statler, of the Atchison County Community Schools, are among the state’s graduating seniors who finished in the top one percent of their high school graduating class.  

Delanie Molt, of Horton, Christopher Raithel, of Pleasant Ridge, Kiana Jessepe, of Holton High School, Paige Deneault, of Jackson Heights, Hayley Harman, of Royal Valley High School, Katherine Madsen, of Hiawatha High School, Kinlee Whetstine, of Doniphan West, and Jude Conley, of Centralia, are among others locally, and statewide, named as Governor’s Scholars.  

Kelly, in a message posted to YouTube, sends her congratulations to the Kansas seniors receiving the honor:   According to a release from Kelly’s office, the Governor’s Scholars Program “has been recognizing outstanding graduating seniors” for the past 38-years.

(KNZA)--The man killed in a house explosion Monday evening in Jackson County has been identified.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a news release Tuesday, identifed the victim as 61-year-old Billy “ Lu” Griffiths, of rural Holton.  Griffiths served a director of the Banner Creek Lake.

His wife, Teri, was seriously injured and airlifted to a Kansas City hospital. She is a teacher at Royal Valley High School.

Morse said the Jackson County Sheriff's Office was notified of a large explosion around 6:15 Monday evening that could be heard over 10 miles away.

Rescue units responded to the residence located at 27284 Q.4 Road over 3 miles north of Holton, just northeast of Jackson Heights High School.

Morse said responders found the residence to be completely leveled and on fire.

He said it's believed the home owners had been working on remodeling the residence.

The incident remains under investigation by the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

(KNZA)--The Hawthorne House that was once part of the historic Hiawatha Academy will be put up for sell. 

The Hiawatha School Board voted Monday evening to accept sealed bids for the sale of the house.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser told the board that a community member has expressed interest in purchasing the house and moving it to another location.

Board members decided to accept sealed bids so everyone has a chance that's interested in the house.

The bids will be considered at the board's June meeting.

Stipulations for the sale of the house—including a timeline for moving the structure—are to be approved by the board at a special meeting next week.

The historic home and land was deeded to USD 415 by E.N. Morrill for the use of education. The land can't be sold, but the house can be sold and moved off the property.

The house has been rented out in recent years, but with the house in need of repairs the board has been pondering the future of the structure.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff's office is making blue ribbons available to show your support for law enforcement during National Police Week.

Every year, the week in May that includes May 15 is designated National Police Week. During this week, C.O.P.S.--- Concerns of Police Survivors promotes the display of blue ribbons tied on vehicle antennas as a reminder to the public of the men and women in law enforcement that have paid the ultimate price and have given their lives in the line of duty. It also honors the officers who protect and serve us each day.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726 which designates May 15 as the official National Peace Officers Memorial Day and national events are held in Washington, D. C. during that weekly period. It has been said that President Kennedy reviewed the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics and incorporated it in to the law to help bring awareness to the integrity and dedication a law enforcement officer must have.

There are over 24,872 law enforcement families who have lost loved ones in the line of duty while serving in the law enforcement field. Each year, between 350-365 law enforcement officers are killed in the line of duty and unfortunately that number seems to be growing. This averages to about 1 officer per day.

"We are asking that community members use blue light bulbs in their outside porch lights to honor those who have given their lives in the line of duty and to recognize those who are still protecting our communities," Sheriff Merchant said.

In addition, Merchant said you can drop by the Sheriff's Office located at 709 Utah Street in Hiawatha to pick up a free blue ribbon to display on your vehicle antenna to show your support. 

(KNZA)--A man is dead and a woman seriously injured as the result of what’s reported as a house explosion in Jackson County Monday.

WIBW-TV reports it happened about 5 miles northeast of Holton, at Q4 and 270th Road, with Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse telling the TV station the force of the blast, which occurred around 6:15 Monday evening, was felt several miles away.

Morse told WIBW the man was found dead at the scene. The injured woman was flown by helicopter for hospital treatment.

Names are not released as the investigation continues.

Crews remained at the scene into Monday night monitoring hot spots left by the fire caused by the explosion.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office has a new tool to help their fight against drugs in the area. 

Deputy Sheriff Zach Ractliffe has returned from training with the counties new K9 Valor,  a single purpose narcotics detection dog.

The two-year-old Dutch Shepherd is from the Netherlands.  Deputy Ractliffe trained with the dog in Ohio before bringing him to Richardson County to begin service.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty has made a crackdown on drugs in Richardson County a priority since being appointed to the position.  Getting the K9 has been a work in progress for quite a while.

The Sheriff's Office thanked the County Commissioners and citizens for their support in allowing the Department to add a vital tool to the department.

The Department also thanked businesses, individuals and organizations that donated to support the Richardson County K9 program.

The donor list includes:
Amalia Morehead
Dorothy Beutler
Richard and Jane Hall
Michael and Brenda Garriott
A & G Streakhouse
Fur-Ever Friends Pet Grooming (Kylie Vollan)
American National Bank
Community Insurance Group
State Bank of Table Rock
Phillips Plumbing Hardware
Bruna Bros Implement
Mrs. Kenneth Arnold
Lee Tinkler
Jack Railsback
Schawang Farms/Jack Schawang
Sherryn Rist in Memory of Ron Rist
Jean and Jerry McNeely
Humboldt Community Thrift Store
Fast Global Solutions
Alphia Pet Food

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Council approved the recommendation from Zoning Administrator Matt Kuhlmann during their April 26 meeting to appoint Laura Poskochil to the Planning Commission. 

The appointment will give the commission five members. 

Mayor Charlie Hatfield talked about donations the Masonic Lodge in Pawnee City have agreed to make. 

The lodge has agreed to donated $25-thousand towards the new Pawnee City Fire Hall with the stipulation the money be used towards finishing the interior of the building.  A plaque in recognition of the Masonic Lodge will be displayed inside the new building. 

In addition,  the lodge agreed to donate a minimum of $500 towards the purchase of new Christmas Lights  and agreed to increase the donation to $800 if necessary. 

Discussion was also held concerning updating an ordinance concerning driveway tubes.  The new language proposed would be for the City to provide and place at City expense, one tube up to 20-feet long driveway tube per property. 

Existing tubes that are non-repairable will be replaced by the City, if the tube can be repaired, the City will pay for the repair.
 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) — A jury has convicted a Colorado Springs man in a 2018 double-slaying in which a former Atchison, Kansas man and Parker, Colorado woman were shot and left in a burning car in a scheme to steal marijuana.

The panel on Friday found Nashid Rayon Rivers guilty of of first-degree murder in the April  2018 killings of 20-year-old Marcus Denton and 21-year-old Serena Garcia in western Colorado Springs.  

 Rivers also was convicted of aggravated robbery, tampering with human bodies and other counts.

 Fourth Judicial District Judge Frances Johnson imposed an automatic penalty of life in prison without parole. Rivers told the judge he was innocent.

Jurors returned their verdict after more than two days of deliberation, after a trial that lasted about two weeks.  

Co-defendant, 22-year-old Marquis Hazard,  is also charged with first-degree murder under the complicity theory, accused of helping to plot and cover up the robbery. His trial is scheduled for September.

(KAIR)--A Missouri man, who came to Atchison to meet an on-line acquaintance, required hospital treatment after he was beaten at a Birch Street residence.

That’s according to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson who says the 28-year-old Liberty, Missouri man was located outside of the residence, in the 2000 block of Birch Street, when officers were called to that location shortly before 6:00 Sunday morning.

After the victim was transported for hospital care by Atchison County EMS, police launched an investigation that continued through Sunday, and led to two arrests.

Taken into custody were a 17-year-old boy and 28-year-old Bailey Walker, of Atchison, in connection with the beating and theft of the victim, who Wilson says was struck over the head with a baseball bat, struck over the head and shoulder with a chair and liquor bottle, and threatened with a knife. A credit card, an ID card, cash, and a cellphone were taken from him.

According to Wilson, the man arrived in Atchison around 9:00 Saturday night “to meet with a person who he had been communicating with online” who lived at the Birch Street residence. Wilson, in the report, says five people were at that location when a disturbance occurred around 4:00 Sunday morning, leading to the beating of the man who was able to escape to a neighboring home where police were called.

The 17-year-old suspect was taken into custody on charges of aggravated battery and aggravated robbery, while Walker, of Atchison, was arrested on charges of aggravated assault and aggravated robbery. Both were booked into the Atchison County Jail.

As of Sunday night, the victim remained hospitalized.

(KNZA)--A Holton man facing a retrial on sexual assault charges has struck a plea deal with prosecutors.

Jackson County Attorney Shawna Miller, in a news release, said 26-year-old Jacob Ewing entered an Alford plea Friday in Jackson County District Court to two counts of aggravated sexual battery.

In an Alford plea, a defendant does not admit to the crime but agrees that the evidence will likely result in a guilty verdict in trial.

Miller said both sides agreed to 10 years incarceration on one count and two years, eight months on the other, with both running at the same time.

He will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life once he is released from prison.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 18.

Ewing was initially sentenced to more than 27 years in prison following his 2017 convictions for raping and sodomizing one woman in 2016 and raping and committing two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy against another woman in 2014.

But the Kansas Court of Appeals threw out those convictions in 2019 and ordered a new trial, citing errors by the prosecutor and court.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly on Friday directed that flags be lowered to half-staff across the state to recognize that more than 5,000 Kansans have now lost their lives to COVID-19.

The order extends until sundown on Sunday.

As of midday Friday, the coronavirus had been blamed on 5,016 deaths in Kansas. Kelly, in a news release, says the best way to honor the memories of victims “is by getting vaccinated” and practicing health protocols to protect against the spread of the virus.

According to the Atchison County Office of Northeast Kansas Multi County Health, 15 have died in the county. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment reports that 38 have died in Brown County, 23 in Doniphan County, 16 in Jackson County, 34 in Jefferson County, 91 in Leavenworth County, 24 in Marshall County, 55 in Nemaha County, and 30 lives have been lost to the virus in Pottawatomie County.

(KNZA)--Two candidates have filed so far for positions up for election this November on the Horton City Commission.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports Ken Krug has filed for re-election as Commissioner of Finance. 

In addition, the County Clerk's Office says Carmela Boller has filed for Commissioner of Streets and Utilities. The position is currently held by Wade Edwards.

Three positions each are up for election this fall on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education and South Brown County USD 430 Board.

On the USD 415 board, they include the positions currently held by John Wright, Andrea Groth and Keith Erdley.

On the USD 430 board, they include the positions currently held by Katelyn Ross, Jamie Bottom and Jacob Bruning.

Also up for election this year are city council and mayor positions in the county's smaller towns.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three people file for a position.

(KLZA)-- Richardson  County  Sheriff's Deputies arrested an Ashland, Nebraska man on multiple drug charges Thursday afternoon. 

34-year-old Steven Zwilling was arrested on two counts of possession of controlled substances,  suspected to be THC Wax  and Psilocybin  Mushrooms;  possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of less than one ounce of marijuana.

Zwilling was booked into the Richardson County Jail. 

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee  City water tower improvement project is underway.  

Pawnee City water customers are to conserve water and City Foreman Spencer Cumley is to shut water service off to people who are not complying with the order to conserve water. 

During the April 26 Council meeting,  the Council received an update on the swimming pool.  The joints in the pool have been completely cleaned out and caulking is being replaced. The contractor doing the work told City Foremen Cumley that when the previous contractor, Premier Pools & Spas cleaned out the cold joints,  they should have removed two-inches of material out of every joint and cleaned them  before resealing them,  but it appears that barely a quarter-inch of material was removed.   

The Council also approved $650 donations to both the Pawnee Gun Club which sponsors the Pawnee City Trapshooting Team and the Pawnee City Ball Association.  The City will also pay the electric bill for the Pawnee Ball Association and will do the same for the Gun Club once they have their lights operating.

Mayor Charlie Hatfield asked both organizations to work  together to pick up trash along the street and road leading from the Ball Field to Highway 50 and from the Ball Field to Highway 8.  
 

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the recommendation from the County Employee Health Insurance Committee Tuesday to approve an agreement to have Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc. of Aurora, Nebraska to provide coverage through Medica.

The monthly premium beginning May 1 will be $723.11 per employee.  The current insurance provided through Aetna is $786.54 per employee monthly and the renewal on July 1 was proposed to increase to $825.76 per employee. 

There will be three options for deductibles available to employees.   The agreement with Gallagher Benefit Services will be considered at a later meeting after revisions are reviewed.  

The committee also requested the Board consider paying for a portion of the cost of the employee / children or spouse and the employee/family coverage at an 80/20 split with the County paying 80 percent of the premium.

The total premium for the $1,500 deductible plan for employee / spouse is $1,482, for employee/children is $1,265 and the employee family plan would be $2,097 per month. 

Commissioners will review the request and meet with the committee again May 11.  

The Board did approve renewing the group Lincoln Financial life insurance with an annual premium increase of 3.75 percent and the long term disability insurance coverage with an annual premium increase of 3.92 percent. 

(KNZA)--The first candidate has filed for one of two positions up for election this November on the Horton City Commission.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports Carmella Boller has filed for Commissioner of Streets and Utilities. The position is currently held by Wade Edwards.

Also up for election is the position Commissioner of Finance, currently held by Ken Krug.

Three positions each are up for election on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education and South Brown County USD 430 Board.

On the USD 415 board, they include position 4, currently held by John Wright; position 5, currently held by Andrea Groth and position 6, currently held by Keith Erdley.

On the USD 430 board, they include position 4, currently held by Katelyn Ross; position 5, currently held Jamie Bottom and position 6, currently held by Jacob Bruning.

Also up for election this year is council and mayor positions in the county's smaller towns.

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

The general election will be held November 2. A primary election will be held August 3, if more than three people file for a position.

(KNZA)--A pavement marking replacement project is set to begin Friday, May 7 on U.S. 36 Highway,  weather permitting.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says the work will start at the Nemaha/Brown county line, go east through Brown County, and end just east of the Doniphan/Brown county line, covering about 25 miles.

KDOT says work zones will stretch up to three miles at a time. Traffic will be restricted to one lane and will be directed by a pilot car, flaggers, signs and cones. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes and add extra time in their travel schedules.

Work will take place Monday through Saturday during daytime hours and is expected to be completed by mid-May.

Wisconsin-based Century Fence  is the contractor on the $371,000 project.

(KMZA)--Overlay and milling work has begun on the northbound and southbound lanes of K-63 in Nemaha County.

The project covers about 8 miles, from junction with K-9 to the junction with U.S. 36.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, traffic will be restricted to one lane in the work zone. Motorists will be directed by a pilot car, flaggers, signs and cones. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes and add extra time to their travel schedules.

Work will take place Monday through Saturday, during daytime hours.

Hall Brothers, Inc., of Marysville is the contractor on the $646,000 project. The project is expected to be completed by late-May, weather permitting.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners met with Leah Meyer with the Nebraska Recycling Council and R.J. Hamilton of Hamilton Recycling and Disposal of Falls City Tuesday to review the idea of a recycling center to serve entities in Southeast Nebraska, Northeast Kansas and Northwest Missouri.

A request for funding from the County was reviewed.  Recycling Center Inc. proposed a combined annual maximum payment, split between participating entities of $140,857.  

The proposal calls for 10 recycling drop off points in Richardson  County and would be in effect for two years.  

According to the proposal, the sites are expected to generate an approximate amount of 334 tons of materials with expected sales revenue of $20,600 in the first year. 50% of sales revenue would be returned to the county at the end of each contracted year. 

Recycling Center, Inc is seeking additional partners with neighboring counties and state grants, creating the potential of reducing costs for all contracted parties. Final monthly payments will be determined between Recycling Center, Inc. and Richardson County prior to the effective date of the agreement. 

No action was taken by the Board.

(KNZA)--Three Little Libraries designed and built by students in a Hiawatha Middle School class were unveiled at this week's City Commission meeting.

Design and Modeling class Instructor Darren Arment along with students, Marcus Hinton and Cooper Handke, presented the project that has been in the works since the fall of 2019.

The Little Libraries represent some notable things about the city of Hiawatha. One was made with a Red Hawk-themed design, another with a maple design and the third was an interpretation of the town's City Hall and clock tower.

Around 35 students were involved in the brainstorming, planning and construction of the miniature libraries.

They were made for the Hiawatha Parks and Recreation Department, which purchased the supplies.

Parks and Recreation Director Stacy Jasper will place the Little Libraries at locations in the community. She plans to place one at the Kiddie Korral, another along the walking trail, and the third may be headed to the County Courthouse square or near City Hall.

Jasper is now hoping for donations to fill the libraries with youth reading materials. Anyone who wishes to donate books for middle school age and younger children can bring them to the Fisher Center during business hours.

(KMZA)--Several candidates have filed so far in Nemaha County for city and school board positions up for election in November.

Cody Bletscher has filed for the position of Sabetha mayor. The position is currently held by Doug Clark.

In Sabetha, also up for election is the position of Commissioner of Finance, currently held by Maridel Wittmer.

Kathy O'Brien has filed for re-election as Seneca City Treasurer. In Seneca, voters will also elect a mayor and three members to the city council. They include the council seats currently held by Kylee Bergstrom, Alice Lackey and Jim Mitchell.

Shawn Branson has filed for one of five seats up for election on the Oneida City Council, while Curtis Goodman has filed for one of five seats up for election on the Wetmore City Council.

One candidate has filed so far for one of three positions up for election on the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board. Anissa Bloom has filed for position 4, currently held by Ed Reznicek. Also up for election is position 2, currently held by Stan Keim, and position 6, currently held by Ann Shaughnessy.

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

The general election will be held November 2. If necessary, a primary election will be held August 3.

(KMZA)--Several candidates have filed so far in Nemaha County for city and school board positions up for election in November.

Cody Bletscher has filed for the position of Sabetha mayor. The position is currently held by Doug Clark.

In Sabetha, also up for election is the position of Commissioner of Finance, currently held by Maridel Wittmer.

Kathy O'Brien has filed for re-election as Seneca City Treasurer. In Seneca, voters will also elect a mayor and three members to the city council. They include the council seats currently held by Kylee Bergstrom, Alice Lackey and Jim Mitchell.

Shawn Branson has filed for one of five seats up for election on the Oneida City Council, while Curtis Goodman has filed for one of five seats up for election on the Wetmore City Council.

One candidate has filed so far for one of three positions up for election on the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board. Anissa Bloom has filed for position 4, currently held by Ed Reznicek. Also up for election is position 2, currently held by Stan Keim, and position 6, currently held by Ann Shaughnessy.

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

The general election will be held November 2. If necessary, a primary election will be held August 3.

(KLZA)-- A Falls City man was booked into the Richardson County Jail Tuesday afternoon on a warrant containing several charges.

30-year-old James Kelly was wanted on a Richardson County warrant for failure to appear; possession of a controlled substance, suspected to have been methamphetamine; possession of a firearm while committing a felony and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KNZA)--A Wednesday morning two-vehicle Brown County wreck claimed the life of a Falls City, Nebraska man and left another man with serious injuries.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened around 8:45 on Horned Owl Road near the junction with 300th Road, about six miles east of Morrill.

According to the KHP report, 22-year-old Martin Richbourg, of Falls City, was  northbound and approached a curve at the same time as a southbound car driven by 40-year-old Tad Alfrey, of Seneca. The report said Alfrey swerved to avoid Richbourg's car, which was traveling northbound in the southbound lane. Both vehicles swerved and collided in the northbound lane.

A passenger in the Richbourg vehicle, 36-year-old Andrew Vaughn, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Richbourg was life-flighted to the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, with suspected serious injuries.

Alfrey was not hurt.

The Patrol says Alfrey was the only occupant in either vehicle wearing a seatbelt at the time of the wreck.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission on Monday voted to reject all bids received for upgrades to the courthouse elevator and to rebid the project with more precise bid specs.

The Commission received bids from three companies.

Representatives of the companies met with the Commission, during the past several weeks, to discuss the scope of work they proposed for the elevator modernization.

The current elevator was installed in 1980.

In other business, bids were open for a new riding lawn mower for the courthouse grounds. 

The Commission voted to accept a bid from Hiawatha Implement for the purchase of a John Deere 730 Signature series lawn tractor with blade and rear wheel weights for $12,035.

The tractor will double as a snow plow.

(KLZA)-- More vaccinations and fewer cases of COVID-19 within the Southeast District Health Department service area. 

That was the word from SEDHD Director Grant Brueggemann during the Community Medical Center of Falls City weekly COVID information update. 

The number of COVID cases has dropped significantly in the past 30 days with only 93 new cases of coronavirus confirmed in the five-county district.  Richardson County has had just six new cases reported in the past 30 days. 

Brueggemann also complimented Southeast Nebraska residents for getting vaccinated at a high rate.  40.7 percent of the residents in the District have been completely vaccinated.  He said that would rank sixth  amongst Health District across Nebraska. 

Coming up possibly as early as next week there should be more Pfizer vaccine available that will allow people as young as 16 to receive vaccinations.  The Phizer vaccine is expected to limited.  The SEDHD is working with school districts and vaccine providers to get the vaccination.

Anyone under 19 years of age must have parental permission to receive the vaccine.  

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members had a lengthy discussion concerning zoning with Dan Farley who owns a home at 1300 Harlan Street when they met Monday evening.

Farley said that several years after purchasing his house, he discovered it was zoned as a commercial property. He said all the houses along Harlan Street are zoned commercial and the action was take without regards those  homeowners.

Farley said the zoning designation has made it difficult to sell the home and he and his wife desire to move to be closer to their children. He suggested a fair way to solve his issue would be for the City to buy him out at the appraised value and then he would move.

Farley said he had discussed the situation with the Planning Commission but the commission ruled the best use of the property was for commercial use.

City Administrator Gary Jorn explained the process that would have to be followed to change the zoning to residential – commercial flex. The action would require Farley to rezone his property and there would be a number of expenses Farley would be responsible for to do so. 

Farley said potential buyers were unable to get a loan on the property since it was zoned commercial.  Jorn noted that the house is non-conforming with the current zoning, but is allowed because the house was built on the location prior to the zoning being put in place. 

Mayor Shawna Bindle said the Council needs more information before any action can be taken.  She said the City will follow up with Farley when they receive more information.  

(KLZA)-- If you are looking for some  outdoor activity this week Community Medical Center in Falls City has an opportunity for you to get outside and get some exercise.

The hospital is installing a nature trail.  Phase I of the  three-phase project will begin this week so if you want to volunteer Wednesday, Thursday or Friday you can go the CMC Facebook page to register, or call 402-245-6503.

The work will include installing a fabric base and a geo-stabilizing grid. The trail will be six-feet wide with a limestone screen surface over a base of gravel and the geo-stabilizing grid.  

It will pass through various trees and flowers, and past some areas destigned for nestingbirds and pollinators.  Phase I ie expected to be completed by the middle of this month. 

There will be labor done on your hands and knees if you can help out.  

Again if you are interested in helping out,  contact CMC at 402-245-6503.  

(KNZA)--Three winning Kansas Lottery tickets, totaling more than $2 million when combined, were sold in northeast Kansas.  

According to a release from the Kansas Lottery each of the three Super Kansas Cash tickets are valued at more than $600,000, with the jackpot hit Monday by all three.  

The winning numbers for the May 3 Kansas Cash drawing were 1-5-7-8-11 Super Cash Ball 10.  The prize winnings had not been claimed as of Tuesday.  

Northeast Kansas includes such local counties as Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Marshall, and Nemaha.

(KNZA)--Hundreds of people are expected to visit the communities of Brown, Doniphan and Nemaha counties Thursday through Sunday as part of the Kansas Sampler Foundation’s Big Kansas Road Trip.

The first-ever Big Kansas Road Trip (BKRT) started in 2019 in Barber, Comanche and Kiowa counties to replace the popular long-running Kansas Sampler Festival. The purpose of the BKRT is to give cities of every size an opportunity to have visitors and to show-and-tell their story, as well as to provide the public first-hand experiences in rural communities.

Foundation director Marci Penner said each year they choose three counties to be showcased in a big tri-county open-house format.

This northeast Kansas version of the BKRT was intended to take place in May of last year, and then September, but was postponed both times because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Local county leaders and communities have been organizing and preparing since April of 2019.

Listings of events, attractions, restaurants, and participating businesses are listed in a 52-page printed guide that can be picked up in most local businesses or city and chamber offices.

You can also go on-line to https://www.bigkansasroadtrip.com/ to see the listings of things to see and do.

(KAIR)--Parking changes, as well as a series of new parking regulations in the area of Atchison’s 9th and Commercial Streets, are approved by the Atchison City Commission.

Approval came Monday on a unanimous vote of 4-0, with Vice-Mayor Allen Reavis absent.

The Commission’s ok means the placement of stripe angle parking spaces on the north side of Commercial Street, between 9th and 10th Streets, which the City says will result in somewhere between 10 and 12 new parking spaces.

Other changes, including traffic enforcement, included with the approved ordinance means no parking, at any time, on the east side of Ninth Street between Kansas Avenue and Main Street, no overnight parking in the first five parking spaces north of Main Street and the first three parking spaces south of Kansas avenue, with parking in those spaces to be restricted to no parking from 10 pm to 6 am.

A two hour parking area is also established, with the first five parking spaces north of Commercial Street and the first two spaces south of Commercial to be restricted to the two hour maximum.

Other spaces will require parking permits for residents of proposed apartments at 832 Commercial Street, with that future development the reason behind the changes.

The developer is Kansas City-based Old Town Development, which the City says is “looking to construct 41 apartment units in the 40,000 square foot building located at 832 Commercial,” with the near $8 million project calling for “about 20 nearby parking spaces that could be permitted for residential use.” About 12 spaces are planned to be constructed on the private property for exclusive use by future apartment residents.

According to the City, the developer is “working on plans to invest approximately $8 million in the construction of the 41-unit apartment project,” with the building permit alone carrying a price tag of nearly $25,000.

(KLZA)-- If you are looking for some  outdoor activity this week Community Medical Center in Falls City has an opportunity for you to get outside and get some exercise.

The hospital is installing a nature trail.  Phase I of the  three-phase project will begin this week so if you want to volunteer Wednesday, Thursday or Friday you can go the CMC Facebook page to register, or call 402-245-6503.

The work will include installing a fabric base and a geo-stabilizing grid. The trail will be six-feet wide with a limestone screen surface over a base of gravel and the geo-stabilizing grid.  

It will pass through various trees and flowers, and past some areas destigned for nestingbirds and pollinators.  Phase I ie expected to be completed by the middle of this month. 

There will be labor done on your hands and knees if you can help out.  

Again if you are interested in helping out,  contact CMC at 402-245-6503.  

(KNZA)---The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening uanimously approved a land lease for a proposed indoor practice facility on the Noble Park grounds.

The lease agreement will be drafted by City Attorney Andy Delaney and brought back to the commission's May 24 meeting for signing  Commissioners agreed to a 25-year term. 

The indoor facility is the first phase of a three-phase improvement project being proposed at Noble Park by the Hiawatha Baseball and Softball Club.

Approval of the lease agreement will allow the group to begin fund raising efforts for the estimated $300,000 facility.

The group asked the Hiawatha School Board last month for a $200,000 commitment to kick-start the project, and will meet with the board again at their next meeting on May 10. 

Troy Kolb, a member of the Baseball and Softball Club board, said the board will retain ownership of the building. He said that will allow them to set up, maintain and schedule for the facility as they see fit.

(KAIR)--An 18-year-old Atchison man is facing charges following a weekend altercation.

Elijah Haley was taken into custody Monday for aggravated battery after police were notified Monday morning of what Wilson calls “an incident that had occurred Sunday evening in the 1100 block of North 7th Street.”

According to Wilson, a group of young men were playing basketball at that location when two members of the group had an argument, leading one to allegedly strike the other in the face twice with his fists, causing injuries that includeed a fractured bone and broken tooth.

The 18-year-old victim required treatment at a Kansas City hospital Sunday night. He was later released.

Haley is accused of causing the injuries, arrested Monday evening for the crime.

(KAIR)--A group of Benedictine College students are hopeful to return to the United States soon as they are currently isolated on international soil due to COVID-19.

KMBC-TV reports the group of 30 students, studying in Florence, Italy, are quarantined and isolated following a virus outbreak within the group

Citing sophomore nursing student Jennifer Franey, the TV station reports that the outbreak began after one student, nearly 3-weeks ago, tested positive following their return from a spring break trip to Spain. Five days later, thirteen students also tested positive for the coronavirus.

Benedictine College President Steve Minnis told KMBC college leaders have been in constant contact with Italian health officials, who are remaining cautious due to what Minnis says is a specific English virus variant confirmed among the group of students.

The college is making accomodations allowing the students to remain in Italy until a required negative test for the virus is confirmed, allowing the students to leave isolation.

(KLZA)-- Peru State College will hold its spring commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 8, in the Al Wheeler Activity Center. Two ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. based on different degrees.
Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, the ceremonies will not be open to the public. Attendees will include graduates and their personal guests only.
For bachelor’s degrees from the School of Education and the School of Arts and Sciences and Master of Science in Education, the ceremony will start at 10 a.m. A reception on the campus quad will follow the ceremony, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
For bachelor’s degrees from the School of Professional Studies and Master of Science in Organizational Management, the ceremony will start at 2 p.m. A reception on the campus quad will follow the ceremony, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Shuttle service from campus parking lots will be available. For details about parking and other logistics, including a link to live stream the ceremony, please visit https://www.peru.edu/commencement.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works has agreed to have General Manager Dave Hunter attempt to get state revolving funds for a sewer lining project in Auburn. The project is already underway and is part of a 10-year plan to do more than 8,700 feet of sewer main lining and and make repairs to 36 manholes. Under the 10-year plan, the Auburn BPW has budgeted $50-thousand annually to complete the work. Hunter told the Board that if the state revolving funds could be secured, they could do the project in one year and potentially save $100-thousand. An engineer is required to qualify for the funding. The Auburn BPW will request cost estimates from JEO Engineers. Hunter also informed Board members during their April meeting that core drilling has begun on the Peru Water Line Project. A pipe supplier has been located and work is continuing on securing easements for the line.

(KNZA)--NEK-CAP is seeking to relocate to Hiawatha.

NEK-CAP Executive Director Jeanette Collier and Transportation Coordinator Scott Sisk met with the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening to inquire about utilizing the old RV park site on South 1st Street for the construction of a new office and maintenance facility along with Head Start Center.

Sisk said they have talked to the board of trustees at the Zion Lutheran Church about purchasing an adjacent piece of property as well.

The NEK-CAP representatives said they have been looking for a site in Hiawatha for more than year but haven't found anything yet that fits their needs.

Their current facility is located on 220th Road about two miles south of Hiawatha.

Mayor Bill Collins voiced support for letting NEK-CAP utilize the old RV park site, but the skate park currently located at the site would have to be re-located and Collins wants to make sure there is no out-of-pocket costs to the city.

Commissioner Becky Shamburg said she likes the idea of NEK-CAP being in town, but voiced concerns about limiting land available to the city for future Parks and Recreation projects, such as a new pool and activity center, which have been discussed. Commissioner Dave Middendorf said he had similar concerns.

The NEK-CAP representatives agreed to look into other properties that could be utilized and return to the next meeting on May 24.

(KAIR)--As construction work continues as part of Atchison’s Commercial Street Project, motorists on 6th Street, at the Commercial Street intersection, will be diverted this week.

That’s according to a release from the City of Atchison, which says the closure, expected to begin Tuesday, will last for about one week.

The intersections at 5th and Commercial and 7th and Commercial will remain open, but both “will require reconstruction at some point in the next couple of months as work on the 500-600 Commercial Street Project continues.”

The release notes that the project’s contractor remains on schedule for the June completion timeline established at the time construction began.

(KAIR)--A COVID-19 variant has been confirmed in Atchison County.

That word is delivered in a release from the Atchison County office of the Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments and Atchison County Emergency Management.

According to the release, the variant, the first confirmed in Atchison County, is identified as the P.1 variant, described by the Centers for Disease Control as having first been identified in Brazil, and later in Tokyo, Japan. It was first confirmed in the United States at the end of January.

P.1 is listed as a variant of concern, meaning there is evidence of an increase in transmissibility, more severe disease, leading to increased hospitalizations or death, and a reduced effectiveness of vaccines.

The release encourages Atchison County residents to continue to wear face masks in public places, practice social distancing, continue proper handwashing, and to get tested and stay home if symptoms begin to be shown.

According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, variants of concern, including P.1, are confirmed in five additional local counties, with two cases confirmed in both Doniphan and Brown counties, while seven are confirmed in Jefferson County. Leavenworth and Pottawatomie counties have four confirmed cases each.

(KLZA)--  A 21-year-old Auburn, Nebraska woman was killed in a single-vehicle wreck early Saturday morning about two miles west of Peru. 

The Nemaha County, Nebraska Sheriffs Office report indicates Grace Allgood ran off Highway 67, east of 642 Avenue, then over corrected causing her vehicle to roll and come to rest down an embankment.

Allgood was partially ejected from the vehicle.  There were no other passengers in the vehicle.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The report says a seatbelt was not in use and that alcohol is believed to have been a factor in the wreck.

Deputies from the Nemaha County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska State Patrol Troopers,  Peru  Fire and Rescue and Auburn Fire and Rescue responded to the scene at about 3 A.M.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioner have approved the purchase of new tasers for the Richardson County Sheriff's Department.  

A contract was approved with Axon Enterprise for an annual amount of service and supplies of $6,120 for year one and $8,280 for years two through five.  The total cost for the five-year contract will be $39,240.  

The Sheriff's Department will receive 12 tasers, related equipment and training as part of the contract.  

In other business Emergency Management Director Brian Kirkendall informed Commissioners that a representative from Thrasher Waterproofing of Omaha will be in Falls City on Wednesday, May 5 to review the water leakage problem in the lower level of the  Courthouse.  

(KAIR)--United States Senator Roger Marshall came to northeast Kansas Saturday, holding town hall meetings in local area counties, including Brown and Doniphan

The Kansas Republican, during his Doniphan County stop at the Troy Community Library, spent nearly an hour fielding questions from constituents regarding a variety of topics, including transgender legislation, the 2nd Amendment, and The Green New Deal.

Regarding transgender issues, Marshall said he is quote – leading legislation to stop the transgender movement – end quote – a remark that drew nods of approval from the approximately one dozen constituents who were in attendance.

As for the 2nd Amendment, Marshall said current legislation being floated in Congress seeking to impose firearm restrictions is quote – unconstitutional, and will, quote – not go anywhere.

Speaking to MSC News at the town hall’s conclusion, Marshall placed such 2nd Amendment restrictions as part of what he calls “the radical far left agenda,” adding that such proposals have left his Kansas constituents angry:

Marshall, during the town hall, said President Biden and the Democrat-led Congress are also focused on advancing “The Green New Deal,” a plan he said would kill American jobs and raise energy prices.

Several in attendance asked what they can do to make their voices heard, with Marshall encouraging them to elect what he called “godly men and women” to serve on city and county commissions, school boards, and state offices.

(KAIR)--When the Atchison City Commission meets Monday, a number of issues will be addressed, along with two presentations, with the first to be made by Live Well Live Atchison Executive Director Jeff Schuele, regarding the recent release of the national 2021 County Health Rankings, which includes Atchison County.

The meeting’s second presentation will focus on the Atchison County Art Association’s Historic Sculpture Plaza Proposal for the 400 block of Commercial Street, with Executive Director Deborah Geiger to outline the specifics for the Commission.

New business to come before the Commission includes the rezoning of 822 and 824 Commercial Street, as well as proposed, unrelated changes to parking at 9th and Commercial Street, as well as a series of new parking regulations in that area.

Parking changes include the City’s plan to stripe angle parking spaces on the north side of Commercial Street, between 9th and 10th Streets, with Commission Meeting documents saying that “will result in somewhere between 10 and 12 new parking spaces,” with completion of the proposed project meaning “150 public parking spaces within one block of 9th and Commercial,” as compared to what the City says are the current 35 unregulated angle parking spaces in the 100 block of both South 9th Street and the 100 block of North 9th Street.

A meeting document notes that “neighboring property owners have concerns about parking availability,” which the City says was addressed during an April 2 “neighborhood meeting” held “to hear those concerns and work through potential solutions with the developer.”

That developer is Kansas City-based Old Town Development, which is “looking to construct 41 apartment units in the 40,000 square foot building located at 832 Commercial,” with the near $8 million project calling for “about 20 nearby parking spaces that could be permitted for residential use." About 12 spaces are planned to be constructed on the private property for exclusive use by future apartment residents.

The Commission Monday will also be asked, as part of the Communications presentation by City Manager Becky Berger, to approve up to $75,000 for litigation expenses related to the counterclaim filed by Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie to the lawsuit filed against him by the City in Atchison County District Court in December seeking the Court to order him to accept all City of Atchison Police arrests into the Atchison County Jail.

Monday's meeting of the Atchison City Commission will begin at 4:30 at Atchison City Hall.

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison Friday joined the rest of the nation in the commemoration of Arbor Day, the date set aside annually to remember the importance of trees, both for beauty and for survival.

Atchison’s recognition of the day was cemented April 19 through a proclamation made by Atchison Mayor Abbey Bartlett.

As part of the City’s commemoration of Arbor Day, the Parks Division of the City’s Public Works department planted a Sugar Maple tree at Atchison’s Reisner Park during the noon hour.

The City of Atchison has been designated a Tree City USA for 38-years.

According to the Arbor Day Foundation, the Tree City USA program began in 1976 as “a nationwide movement that provides the framework necessary for communities to manage and expand their public trees.”

Other local area communities designated as a Tree City USA include Effingham, which has been a part of the program for 25-years, Valley Falls, a member of 24-years, Hiawatha, for 15-years, Leavenworh, for 26-years, and Sabetha, for 7-years.

(KNZA)--What began as a Brown County Deputy's assistance to a motorist ended with the arrest of two on drug charges.

According to a report from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, it was around 9:30 on the night of April 25t when the Deputy stopped to assist the motorist on 240th Road, near Plumtree.
However, as the assistance was provided, an investigation at the scene revealed the alleged presence of drugs, which led to the arrests of 32-year-old Leona resident Amanda Thorburn and 38-year-old Hiawatha resident Sissy Wilson.

Thorburn was arrested on charges for felony possession of a stimulant, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and transport open container.

Wilson faces charges for felony possession of a stimulant, unlawful to obtain prescription drug, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrests, both were taken to the Brown County Jail.

(KMZA)--The theft from a tractor, as well as an unrelated residential burglary, are being investigated by the Nemaha County, Kansas Sheriff’s Department.  

According to a release, the theft of a tractor carburetor was reported, with the crime having occurred sometime between November 10 of last year and April 24 this year.  The part was stolen from 2321 124th Road, in Sabetha.  It’s valued at $500.  

Meanwhile, the reported residential burglary occurred sometime between 4:30 on the afternoon of April 26 and 6:30 on the morning of April 27.  

According to the report from the Sheriff’s Office, it happened at 1338 K-9 Highway, in Corning, when someone entered the residence and removed multiple laptops and tablets.  The estimated loss in the burglary is around $3,600.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha Community Hospital has announced the adoption of a new name as one of the first steps in the affiliation process with Atchison-based Amberwell Health.

Beginning May 3rd, both the complete care location in Hiawatha and the primary care clinic in Highland will begin using the Amberwell name. Hiawatha Community Hospital will be known as “Amberwell Hiawatha” and HCH Highland Clinic will be known as "Amberwell Highland Clinic". Services offered at each location will also adopt Amberwell brand names, including HCH Family Practice Clinic at Amberwell Hiawatha, which will now be an Amberwell Primary Care location.

In addition, Hiawatha Community Hospital Foundation will adopt the name "Amberwell Hiawatha Foundation" to align with the new Amberwell Hiawatha name. The leadership of the foundation board remains the same and donations will continue to apply only to Amberwell Hiawatha.

On March 4, Hiawatha Community Hospital and Amberwell Health announced the affiliation to create a clinically integrated network to provide patients in Northeast Kansas improved access to a full spectrum of care close to home.

The affiliation provides the opportunity to strengthen the future of healthcare in Northeast Kansas and surrounding areas. Within Amberwell Health, the affiliated organizations are now in the process of integrating clinical service lines and operational infrastructures.

Amberwell Health began in 2020, when Atchison Hospital created the brand name and organizational structure with a vision to become a rural healthcare system that connects northeast Kansas communities and care to ensure local healthcare thrives.

Amberwell Health now includes two complete care locations –Amberwell Atchison and Amberwell Hiawatha–which provide inpatient, outpatient, surgery, and obstetrics services, and 5 clinic locations in Atchison, Highland, Horton, Leavenworth, and Troy.