(KAIR)--Just over seven-years in prison is the sentence handed down Monday to an Atchison woman who previously plead no contest to methamphetamine-based drug crimes in Atchison County District Court.

Sheena Kley was sentenced to the 7-year-2-month sentence on charges of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent to distribute, and interference with law enforcement.

The Judge, Monday in Atchison County District Court, ordered all three counts to run consecutive to each other, leading to the seven-years of incarceration.

Kley, on January 11 of last year, entered the no contest plea to the charges.

According to a release from Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker, Kley was arrested November 19, 2019, following an investigation by the Atchison County Sheriff's Office, leading to the allegation that she was traveling to Missouri from Atchison, and returning with meth.

Following her arrest, Kley struggled with deputies when refusing to hand over what was determined to be a bag of meth. She was later accused, after being taken to the Atchison County Jail, of flushing meth down a jail toilet, with a bag containing meth crystals recovered. That happened as deputies were collecting remnants of the drug Kley spread throughout the patrol vehicle.

After she was initially charged, the coronavirus pandemic closed the court system, with Kley absconding Atchison County jurisdiction until she was arrested in Missouri and extradited to face the charges.

(KAIR)--Just over seven-years in prison is the sentence handed down Monday to an Atchison woman who previously plead no contest to methamphetamine-based drug crimes in Atchison County District Court.

Sheena Kley was sentenced to the 7-year-2-month sentence on charges of possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent to distribute, and interference with law enforcement.

The Judge, Monday in Atchison County District Court, ordered all three counts to run consecutive to each other, leading to the seven-years of incarceration.

Kley, on January 11 of last year, entered the no contest plea to the charges.

According to a release from Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker, Kley was arrested November 19, 2019, following an investigation by the Atchison County Sheriff's Office, leading to the allegation that she was traveling to Missouri from Atchison, and returning with meth.

Following her arrest, Kley struggled with deputies when refusing to hand over what was determined to be a bag of meth. She was later accused, after being taken to the Atchison County Jail, of flushing meth down a jail toilet, with a bag containing meth crystals recovered. That happened as deputies were collecting remnants of the drug Kley spread throughout the patrol vehicle.

After she was initially charged, the coronavirus pandemic closed the court system, with Kley absconding Atchison County jurisdiction until she was arrested in Missouri and extradited to face the charges.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the One & Six Year Road Plan following a public hearing drawing no public comment during their February 22nd meeting.

There are 10 projects on the one year plan with an estimated cost of $1,897,000. The projects include $1.5 million for the overlay of the road from the City Limits of Rulo to the Nemaha Bridge.

The Six Year Plan includes several bridge replacement projects and road rehab projects and comes with an estimated price tag of $9,634,000 for 17 projects.

The Board also approved the purchase of a new 2022 John Deer 772G all wheel drive motor grader from Murphy Tractor in Lincoln per the sate contract cost of $289,577 less the $40 thousand trade in allowance for a 2006 CAT motor grader. The expected delivery date is October, 2022.

Commissioners also approved a proposal from Prochask & Associates to prepare specifications, bidding and construction phases of the Courthouse Roof Replacement Project.

(KLZA)-- An Omaha man was hospitalized in St. Joseph following a single vehicle wreck Sunday evening about 10:15 on U.S. Highway 159 approximately five miles north of Forrest City, Missouri.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reported 74-year-old Charles Cornwell was northbound on U.S. 159 and traveled off the east side of the road ans struck a guard rail before traveling down an embankment and struck a concrete bridge support column before the car came to rest on its top.

Cornwell was transported by the Atchison-Holt EMS with what were described as serious injuries. The car was totaled.

The Holt County Sheriff's Department assisted at the scene of the wreck.

(KNZA)--Three individuals were arrested over the weekend in Brown County on drug charges following two separate traffic stops.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, a deputy initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of US 73 Highway near 170th Road around 2:00 Sunday morning.

46-year-old Travis Darnall, of Mayetta, was arrested on charges of a possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia, along with a no bond Potawatomi Tribal warrant.

27-year-old Autumn Morris, of Hiawatha, was also arrested on charges of possession of meth and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Both were booked into the Brown County Jail.

Following a traffic stop Saturday, Merchant said 50-year-old Bryan Fix, of White Cloud, was arrested  on charges of possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked. 

Merchant said K-9 officer, Carla, was deployed and indicated on the vehicle, which provided probable cause for a search. During the search, cocaine was discovered.

Fix was booked into the Brown County Jail.

(KAIR)--Atchison-based MGP Ingredients will build what a release calls "a technologically advanced extrusion plant to produce its ProTerra line of texturized proteins."  The new plant will be located adjacent to the company’s existing Atchison plant.

According to the release, once online in late 2023, the new extrusion plant is expected to produce up to 10 million pounds of ProTerra per year.

Design of the $16.7 million facility will be led by Sabetha, Kansas-based design firm 1 Solutions Group. The firm has extensive experience designing extrusion lines in the food industry (including texturized proteins) and has worked with MGP on previous extrusion projects.  Construction on the new facility will begin this summer and will be completed by the end of 2023.

MGP CEO Dave Colo, in the release, says that "achieving in-house production of [the company's] ProTerra line of products is a meaningful investment amid growing demand and increasing outsourcing costs.”

The new plant will help the company meet the growing demand for its ProTerra product line, while giving it more control over the manufacturing process.  MGP currently utilizes co-packers to produce the line.

In the release, MGP Vice-President of Ingredient Solutions Sales and Research and Development, Michael Buttshaw says the new extrusion plant will give MGP "the capacity and flexibility required to continue to meet the growing demand for [the] ProTerra line of texturized proteins,” adding that by transitioning the manufacturing process in-house, MGP "will reduce lead times related to co-packer scheduling issues, increase flexibility related to R&D projects and enhance [the] ability to effectively commercialize new products.”

(MSC News)--Funding has been awarded for the replacement or rehabilitation of aging, deficient bridges in twenty-nine Kansas Counties—including locally, Atchison, Jackson, Leavenworth, Marshall and Pottawatomie.

Governor Laura Kelly announced last week the awarding of more than $5 million as part of the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program.

The Kelly administration reinstated the program in 2019 to assist cities and counties by providing up to $150,000 toward the replacement or rehabilitation of a bridge on the local roadway system.

Atchison County will receive funding for a project about 3 miles southwest of Farmington over a tributary to Stranger Creek.

Jackson County was awarded funding for a project just east of Circleville over a tributary to Elk Creek.

Leavenworth County will receive funding for a project about 1.2 miles north K-192 on 255th Road over Dawson Creek.

Marshall County was awarded funding for a project 1 ½ miles west of Vliets on Tumbleweed Road over Ackerman Branch Creek, and Pottawatomie County will receive funding for a project about 3 ½ miles east of Westmoreland on Robson Road over Darnells Creek.

Also Marshall and Pottawatomie Counties will each receive $50,000 in additional funding for closing a second deficient bridge.

A total of 62 applications were received for the recent round of funding through the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program, with requests for a total of $10.5 million in funds.

(KAIR)--An 8th grade student from Atchison’s Saint Benedict Catholic School earned top honors Thursday in the Atchison County Spelling Bee, held at the Atchison Middle School.  

Reyna Tufte took first place by correctly spelling the word “robbery,” while her 7th grade schoolmate, SBCS 7th grader, Trinity Hemp, was named runner-up.  

A total of 44 students, ranging from grades 5 through 8, competed Thursday, representing the Atchison County-based schools of SBCS, the Atchison Middle School, the Atchison County Community Jr High School, and Trinity Lutheran.

Tufte will now compete in the state spelling bee in March sponsored by the Kansas Press Association.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth County-based business, and a state agency, receives praise from Kansas Governor Laura Kelly after earning national recognition.

Tonganoxie’s Hill’s Pet Nutrition and the Kansas Department of Commerce are named as recipients of the Business Facilities 2021 Deal of the Year Impact Award in the Specialty Manufacturing category for Hill’s expansion, and investment, in Tonganoxie.

Kelly, in a release, calls the business a continuing “game-changer in helping grow the Animal Health Corridor and bringing new jobs, new investment, and new expertise to” Kansas, adding that the “impressive recognition is further proof of the significance of Hill’s presence and its impact throughout Kansas.” The Impact Awards, according to the release, “recognize both economic development organizations for their efforts to secure private investments in their state and the company for the impact on the local community through investment.”

The release calls Business Facilities “a nationally recognized resource that provides comprehensive project location information to corporate site selectors and economic development professionals.”

Last year in June, Hill’s Pet Nutrition announced plans to build what the release calls “a new, sustainably designed wet pet food manufacturing plant at the Tonganoxie Business Park, investing more than $325 million in the 300,000 square foot facility. It’s expected to generate at least 80 new jobs by 2025, making them one of the largest employers in Tonganoxie.

The pet food plant was one of 321 projects, and nearly $3.8 billion in planned capital investment statewide that made 2021 what the release calls “the most successful business year in Kansas history.”

A committee of nationally recognized site consultants selected this year's winners from a record-setting number of submissions.

(KAIR)--Details have been released regarding a recent, fatal two-vehicle collision in Leavenworth County that claimed the life of an Atchison man.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the fatal wreck happened around 9:00 the morning of February 15 on U.S. 73 Highway near Edwards Drive, south of the Atchison-Leavenworth County line.

Killed in the wreck was 53-year-old James Patrick McManigle, while the other driver, 21-year-old Topeka resident Abby Pressgrove, suffered serious injuries.  According to social media posts, Pressgrove is a junior at Atchison's Benedictine College and a member of the women's softball team.
 
According to the KHP report, Pressgrove was northbound when she lost control of her SUV and traveled left of center. McManigle, who driving a southbound pickup truck, attempted an avoidance maneuver and drove off the right side of the road.  The Patrol report says both vehicles collided head-on while on the right shoulder along the southbound lane.

McManigle, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Pressgrove, who was wearing a seatbelt, was transported to the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City for the treatment of her injuries.

The Patrol says both drivers were alone in their vehicles.

(KNZA)--The Valley Falls USD 338 Board of Education this week interviewed three candidates to be the district's next superintendent.

They include Rebecca Kramer, who currently serves as the director of early childhood and elementary education in the Seaman School District; Shane Clark, who currently serves as the Early Childhood-12th grade principal of Olpe Schools in South Lyon County USD 252; and John Hamon, who currently is in his first year as superintendent of schools at Kinsley-Offerle USD 347.

A public reception was held each day to allow patrons an opportunity to meet each candidate.

Current Valley Falls Superintendent Dr. Volora Hanzlicek  is resigning at the end of the current school year after holding the position since July 2018.  She has been hired as the new superintendent of Doniphan West USD 111.  

The individual selected by the USD 338 board to replace Hanzlicek will begin work July 1st.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved advertising for a Code Enforcement position when they met Wednesday evening.

City Administrator Kevin Cluskey said the job description for the full-time position was developed and will help the City follow through on some of the goals the City has as far as code enforcement.

The person filling the position will not be a police officer, but will be under the direction of the Falls City Police Department. Chief Jamie Baker said the person will enforce polices under city code and that the Police Department would be involved when necessary.

Baker also noted when a court appearance was required, the person would already be on the clock, this avoiding paying officers overtime to appear in court on their off hours.

In other business the Council approved a request from Police Officer Juan Ramirez to move outside of Falls City. Chief Baker said he would be within the required 10 – minute response time required of officers of the Department.

The Council also approved a request for $5 thousand in funding for Falls City Recreation for the 2022 activities.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The top public school administrator in Kansas has been suspended after attempting to resign over an offensive remark about Native Americans at a recent public conference.

Education Commissioner Randy Watson’s resignation was announced Friday by Jim Porter, the chairman of the State Board of Education.

The elected 10-member board appoints the commissioner to run the State Department of Education and called a special meeting to deal with Watson’s remark.

The board unanimously rejected Watson’s resignation Friday and suspended him for 30 days, without pay.

The decision comes after Gov. Laura Kelly, three indigenous state legislators and the chair of one of the state’s four Native American nations called on Watson to resign.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man, found responsible for the death of another man while drag racing on a stolen motorcycle, is going to prison.  

Justen McCarter was sentenced this week in Leavenworth County District Court to 3 ½ years in prison for involuntary manslaughter and possession of a stolen motorcycle.  

A release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson explains that the fatal accident happened March 1, 2020, when the stolen motorcycle, ridden by McCarter, struck and killed Adam Wheeler as Wheeler was crossing the street at 12th and Ottawa, in Leavenworth.  

The motorcycle was found 150 feet away from where McCarter was laying after the collision, with witnesses confirming for authorities that McCarter was drag racing at the time of the wreck.  

Wheeler lost his life, while McCarter lost an arm, in the fatal crash.  

Thompson, in the release, calls the crash “an irresponsible and reprehensible tragedy.”

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council heard a report on the activities of the Northeast Kansas Enterprise Facilitation program, and received a request for funding from the organzation when the meet last week.  

Facilitator Teresa McAnerney presented the update to the Council and requested funding in the amount of $5,000 per year for 2022, 2023 and 2024.  

The Council approved the funding request.  

In other business, the council voted to authorize Mayor Joe Mitchell to sign a letter of commitment to provide matching funds, if the city is awarded a grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce for a project to rebuild the electric distribution system in the alley south of Main Street from 3rd to 11th Streets.  

City Administrator Tami Haverkamp also informed the council the city may be able to apply for a grant to fund a possible walking trail and dog park. The trail and dog park would be located on the Maxwell Springs property.  The grant would be a 50/50 reimbursement grant.  If the grant is approved, the project would have to be completed by May 31, 2026.

(KMZA)--Marshall County Attorney Meghan Voracek has announced plans to resign her position, effective March 23.

The Marysville Advocate said Voracek announced her decision Wednesday, citing personal reasons.

Voracek, of Seneca, has served as county attorney since July 2019 following her appointment to the position by Governor Kelly to fill the unexpired term of Laura Johnson-Mcnish. Johnson-McNish stepped down to accept an appointment as district magistrate judge in Doniphan County.

Voracek was then elected to a four-year term in November 2020, which began in January 2021.

The Marshall County Republican Central Committee will now have to select someone to fill her unexpired term, with the name being forwarded to Governor Kelly for appointment to a term expiring in January 2025.

(KMZA)--The 40th annual Baileyville Benefit will be held Saturday and Sunday at the Nemaha Central High School in Seneca.  

It will include basketball and volleyball tournaments, along with a live, silent and online auction of donated items.  The online auction began February 19 and and runs through Saturday afternoon at 2:00.  In addition, there will be a concession stand and the Wheel of Fortune.    

Proceeds from this year's event will go to help three individuals with medical expenses--Jason Rokey, Rex Lowe and Shelia Mitchell, along with the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital and the Nemaha County Training Center.  

Some money raised is also kept for community needs that arise throughout  the year.  

In 2020, the benefit brought in nearly $200,000.  Last year's benefit was held virtually and still raised around $135,000.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Commissioners heard two requests for the use of ARPA funds when they met Tuesday.

Suzanne Borcher with the Fairview Golf Club asked for $10 thousand to help update the golf club building by making improvements to the restrooms and to add new heating and cooling units. Borcher noted the amount of the request is less than two percent of the County ARPA funding.

Denise Wolseben, Rural Water Manager met with the Board noting that Rural Water would like to use ARPA funds for system improvements. The report indicated the water lines are too small and the system is old and requires frequent repairs.. It was also noted the system cannot take on any new customers. A 2015 study recommended a new elevated storage tank east of Pawnee City and an increase in pipe size and an increase in rates.

Rural Water does not qualify for any state grants.

No action was taken by the Commissioners on either request.

Commissioners approved a bid from MEI to do bridge inspections in Pawnee County at a cost of $8,060 which was more than $5 thousand lower than the other bid received.

Following a public heairng on the One – and – Six Year Road Plan presented by Highway Superintendent Chris Rauner, the Board approved the resolution to adopt the plan.

OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — President Joe Biden has approved requests for a federal disaster declaration for Nebraska and Iowa after a line of destructive thunderstorms and tornadoes swept across the states in mid December.

The designation allows segments of the two states to access federal funding for emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged facilities.

The declaration covers 25 counties from south-central to east-central Nebraska and 25 counties across Iowa. Among the 25 Nebraska counties included in the designation are Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson and Gage counties.

At least 45 tornadoes were confirmed in the Dec. 15 storms that crossed the Great Plains and Midwest amid unseasonably warm temperatures, with Nebraska, Iowa and Minnesota taking the brunt of the damage.

(KMZA)--The Vermillion USD 380 Board of Education this week interviewed three candidates seeking to be the district's new superintendent.

They included Joel Bickner, who currently serves as the secondary principal at the Bottineau School District in Bottineau, North Dakota. Shana Steinlage, who currently serves as director of the Marshall-Nemaha Educational Service Cooperative in Seneca, and Trevor Ashcraft, who currently serves as the USD 380 curriculum director and Vermillion principal.

Current superintendent Matt Rogers is resigning at the end of the current school school year for health reasons. Rogers has lead the district since 2018.

The school board hopes to have a new superintendent hired by the end of the month.

(KNZA)--Representatives from Chicago-based Invenergy updated the Brown County Commission Tuesday on the Grain Belt Express transmission line project.

The about 800-mile line will deliver up to 4,000 megawatts of wind-generated power from southwest Kansas to eastern states. The line will go through 14 Kansas counties—including Brown, Doniphan, Marshall and Nemaha.

The company is seeking approval of a road use agreement with the county for construction of the transmission line.

Jason Brown, director of land and community affairs with Invenergy, said the roads would not take the wear and tear that building a wind farm would entail, as they aren’t traveling in with heavy loads such as big wind turbines.

So far, Brown said they have completed right-of-way acquisition for about 69 percent of the route in Kansas and Missouri through voluntary easement agreements. He said they want to negotiate with landowners and not use eminent domain.

The towers that will support the transmission line will be between 130 to 160 feet tall and about a quarter-mile apart.

Brown said the project will be built in phases. He said construction is expected to begin in late 2023 or early 2024, and the transmission line is to be on line by the end of 2025.

Brown said Invenergy is looking at a total investment of $8 billion in Kansas alone.

Under Kansas statute, the high voltage transmission line is exempt from property taxation for a period of 10 years. In lieu of taxes, the company will make a one-time contribution to Brown County of $180,000.

Representatives of Invenergy also meet with the Doniphan County Commission Tuesday

(KAIR)--The Leavenworth man shot by authorities after he threatened them with a firearm is now in custody.

According to a release from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, 31-year-old Donald Barden, Jr. was taken into custody by KBI agents “as he was discharged from the University of Kansas Rehabilitation Center.”

Following his arrest late Wednesday afternoon, Barden was booked into the Leavenworth County Jail on three counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.

The charges stem from February 13 when Barden, early that morning, was found by authorities to be standing in the middle of the street, at the intersection of 5th and Seneca, in Leavenworth, armed with a handgun.

Traffic was blocked after Leavenworth Police, Lansing Police, and the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene and began to negotiate with Barden. He allegedly ignored commands to drop his weapon, and instead waved his gun around and made suicidal statements, prior to running “toward officers while pointing his gun in their direction.”

According to KBI, that’s when “one officer from the Leavenworth Police Department and one officer from the Lansing Police Department fired rounds toward Barden, striking him. At the same time, another officer from the Leavenworth Police Department fired bean bag rounds at Barden.” Officers then rendered aid to Barden, who was then treated by EMS and transported to the hospital in critical but stable condition.

According to KBI, the investigation is continuing, with the findings to be turned over to the Leavenworth County Attorney for review, once the “thorough and independent” probe is completed.

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

According to a release issued by the city Wednesday evening,  a water sample collected on February 7  showed a nitrate level of 11 milligrams per liter, which is 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.

(KLZA)-- One person was hospitalized following a wreck involving a semi-truck and an SUV in Atchison County, Missouri early Tuesday morning.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports the SUV driven by 31-year-old Heather Chambers of Dayton, Texas was southbound on Interstate 29 approximately a mile-and-a-half north of Rock Port when a semi-truck driven by 42-year-old Travis Lotter of Nebraska City struck the rear of the SUV when it slowed down due to icy road conditions.

The SUV ended up in the median and the semi came to a controlled stop on the southbound shoulder.

An occupant in the SUV, 55-year-old Lisa Hnderseon suffered what were described as minor injuries and was transported by the Atchison-Holt EMS to the Grape Community Hospital in Hamburg, Iowa.

The Atchison County Sheriff's Department and Rock Port Fire Department also responded to the scene of the wreck which occurred at 4:50 a.m.

(KLZA)-- During the February 15th Richardson County Commissioners meeting, Sheriff Rick Hardesty and Chief Deputy Sheriff Roland Merwin informed Commissioners of grants awarded to the Sheriff's Department.

A $2,500 mini-grant was received to assist with the purchase of one DataMaster evidentiary breath testing instrument.

A $2,400 mini-grant was received to assist wit the purchase of two radar units and $1,770 was awarded to the Sheriff's Office for six preliminary breath tester units.

The grant funds come from the Nebraska Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office and the Highway Safety Incentive Funds program.

It was also noted that the Sheriff's Office anticipates receiving funds from the grant application submitted to the USDA for the purchase of law enforcement equipment.

Sheriff Hardesty also informed Commissioners that on March 1, multiple agencies will be conducting a methamphetamine forum from 9:00 a.m. until noon at the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center. The meeting will provide information on combating the meth problem in Nebraska.

Agencies scheduled to be involved include the FBI, Drug Enforcement Agency, Nebraska State Patrol, U.S. Attorney's Office and the Nebraska Attorney General's Office as well as local agencies.

(KLZA)-- An early Wednesday morning single car wreck on U.S. 71 Highway approximately two miles north of Savannah, Missouri has claimed the life of an Oregon, Missouri man.

The Missouri Highway Patrol report says 31-year-old Cody Maser of Oregon was northbound on U.S. 71 in a Chevy Impala when he traveled off the west side of the road and overturned.

Maser was ejected from the vehicle as it overturned before ocming to resst on its wheels.

Maser was pronounced deceased at the scene by Andrew County Coroner Doug Johnson.

(KAIR)--A single vehicle crash into a concrete pillar sent an Atchison woman to the hospital.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Candi McNeely, around 1:30 Tuesday afternoon, was driving in a parking lot in the 2000 block of U.S. Highway 59 when she collided with the pillar.

McNeely, following the collision, was transported by Atchison County EMS to Atchison’s Amberwell Hospital for examination.

(KNZA)--Three individuals were arrested following a drug bust in Fairview on Sunday.

Based on an investigation, Brown County Sheriff John Merchant said the Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force served a search warrant  at 114 West Front Street.

He said over 2 ½ grams of methamphetamine, 2 grams of marijuana as well as meth pipes, marijuana pipes and other paraphernalia were taken into evidence.

Arrested on charges of possession of meth, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were  65-year-old Jane Teske and 58-year-old Roger Teske, both of Fairview.

Also arrested was 47-year-old Sharon Drake, of Hiawatha, on charges of possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia as well as a $1000 Doniphan County warrant for failure to appear.

All three remain in the Brown County Jail.

(KAIR)--Longtime Benedictine College Head Football Coach Larry Wilcox becomes Atchison’s newest City Commissioner.

His selection was made Tuesday, chosen from among six other applicants vying to fill the seat left vacant by last month’s death of Commissioner, and Vice-Mayor, J. David Farris.

Commissioner’s Lisa Moody, in attendance through an online platform, and Dr. Allen Reavis, both voted in favor of Wilcox, while Mayor Abby Bartlett and Commissioner Jesse Greenly both voted in favor of applicant Charo Kelley.

City Attorney Robert Campbell, who oversaw the selection process, cast the tie-breaking vote in favor of Wilcox.

Following his selection by the Commission, Wilcox was sworn into the office and took his place at the Commission table.

The next order of business was filling the role of Vice-Mayor which, like the position of Mayor, is ceremonial in the City of Atchison, with that position voted into place by the Commission to serve the role of Commission Vice-Chair.

Chosen for that role by a unanimous vote of her fellow Commissioners was Lisa Moody.

Wilcox will serve in the seat left vacant by the unexpected death of Farris through December 4, 2023.

Wilcox served for 42-years as Benedictine College’s head football coach until his retirement in June of last year.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Sheriff's Department is looking to add a K-9 to the department, but needs help from the public to raise the necessary funds.  

In a social media post, the department says they need to raise $8,000 to certify the handler and Sergio, an 1 ½ year-old Dutch Shepard.

Sergio would assist the department with sniffing for narcotics and tracking.

If the dog is brought on board, Deputy Sheriff Nick Hilderbrand will be his handler. The Doniphan County Sheriff Department hasn't had a K-9 in several years.

Deputy Sheriff Jared Ratzlaff said the department didn’t budget for a K-9 for this year partly because there wasn’t an officer interested in having a K-9 at the time. But when Hilderbrand joined the department they began exploring the idea.

Ratzlaff said that the department is working on a social media campaign and making online donations an option.

Those wanting to learn more about Sergio and how they can help can visit the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Department’s Facebook page.

(KLZA)-- Community Medical Center in Falls City has reported a significant drop in the percentage of positive tests for COVID-19 in the past two weeks.

From February 8 – 22 there were 158 tests conducted for COVID and only 26 were positive, that is 14.1 percent compared to the 30.1 percent positive rate January 25 to February 8. There were 124 positive tests during that two-week period.

In the past week, February 15 to the 22 the rate of positive tests declined to 10.8 percent which was 10 of the 82 tests conducted.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson County Central Board of Education approved a resolution during their February 9 meeting to hold a special bond fund election during Primary Election on May 10.

The purpose of the election will be for school district patrons to vote for or against a $43,375,000 general obligation bond proposal with the funds used for land acquisition and the construction of a pre-kindergarten to 12th grade facility for the Johnson County Central Schools, and to provide for necessary furniture, equipment and apparatus for such a facility.

In the February report from Superintendent Jon Rother, he noted the estimate to renovate the current facilities to meet the needs of the district include $6.5 million for the Tecumseh Elementary school built in 1931; $9.8 million for the site located in Cook with the facility built in 1958 and an addition in 1999. The renovation cost at the current High School in Tecumseh is estimated at $10 million bringing the total cost of $26.3 million.

Renovation would include replacing the HVAC systems including the boilers, asbestos remediation and updating the buildings to meet fire safety codes and ADA requirements plus roof repairs and updated safety and security measures along with telephone and IT capabilities.

In May, 2021 the initial estimate for a new facility came with a price tag ranging from $56-$61 million and would be approximately 155,765 square feet.

Since that time, the Steering Committee substantially modified the estimate and believe the needed square footage is approximately 125,700 square feet and will cost $42.5 - $43.5 million.

Under the proposal, the Industrial Arts classes and wrestling room would remain at the current high school building along with the superintendent's office, business office and the technology coordinators office, requiring only minimal renovations.

The JCC Building Steering Committee consisting of residents across the school district recommended the School Board propose a construction bond to the voters in May.

If approved a new, single-site facility will be built in Tecumseh.

(KLZA)-- Several bills that would directly benefit Nebraska's First Legislative District have been introduced recently by First District State Senator Julie Slama.

Last Thursday, The Appropriations Committee held a hearing on LB 977, a bill that would allocate American Rescue Plan dollars to Falls City to help the city upgrade their electrical infrastructure. In her weekly report to district patrons, Senator Slama says Falls City has almost everything going for it to be the next site to grow Nebraska's economy. However, the electrical grid has kept away many potential development prospects because of their inability to secure reliable access to power.

By investing ARPA dollars in this program, we will be able to bring more business to Richardson County, creating countless jobs and strengthening our district's rural economy as a whole.

LB 942 was heard by the Judiciary Committee February 10. the bill would help rural law enforcement agencies by changing some of the certification requirements for rural law enforcement officers. This is in response to the negative effect last years LB 51 has had on rural law enforcement agencies. The bill is still in committee.

LB 887 was introduced on Valentines day. The bill would authorize Peru State College to offer graduate programs. Peru State is only able to provide master's programs in two different areas currently. The bill has been voted out of the Education Committee unanimously and is currently on General File.

That same day, LB 1110 was introduced to the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee. The bill would make ATVs and UTVs street -legal statewide, a benefit to rural communities where people use side-by-sides just as much as they do cars. No vote has been taken on the bill as of yet.

Finally on February 14 Senator Slama's LB 1210 went before the Appropriations Committee. The bill would give American Rescue Plan dollars to revitalize main street businesses in rural areas across the state. The ten million dollar investment would allow businesses located in old, historical buildings to do any structural work they might need and would promote businesses moving into these downtown areas that are vital to our communities.

(KMZA)--Two people died over the weekend in separate Pottawatomie County fires.

Jill Bronaugh, spokeswoman for the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office, said the first fire was reported Saturday morning at a home located at 303 Bidwell Street in Emmett.

She said firefighters found a body after suppressing the fire.

Bronaugh said the second fire was reported Sunday morning at 7301 Flint Rock Road in rural Wamego.

She said the fire was been classified as accidental.

Both of the fatal fires remain under investigation.

Bronaugh said the identity of the victims won't be released until next of kin is notified, and autopsies are performed.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City School Board approved contracts for district Principals for the 2022-23 school year when they met last week.

Contracts were offered to High School Principal Gale Dunkhas, Middle School Principal Jack Bangert and North Elementary School Principal Shelly Leyden.

In addition, due to some changes Wendy Craig will serve as Director of special Education, Ethan Sullivan will serve as Assistant High School Principal and Megan Robeson Academic Assessment Coordinator will all serve under administrative contracts.

(KLZA)-- The Village of Rulo has announced in a Facebook post that the boat ramp to the Missouri River at Rulo is temporarily closed due to what the Army Corps of Engineers has declared to be historic lows on the river.

The low water levels are affecting most ramp access along the Missouri River.

The decision was made by the Village Board so people will not damage any of their property when trying to get on the river.

The ramp will be reopened when the river gauge level reaches six feet.

The Village Board has been advised by the Corp that the boat ramp is not in need of repairs and that the Corp will not be extending the ramp.

Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Rulo Village Board Chairman Becky Simmonds.

(KLZA)-- The Village of Rulo has announced in a Facebook post that the boat ramp to the Missouri River at Rulo is temporarily closed due to what the Army Corps of Engineers has declared to be historic lows on the river.

The low water levels are affecting most ramp access along the Missouri River.

The decision was made by the Village Board so people will not damage any of their property when trying to get on the river.

The ramp will be reopened when the river gauge level reaches six feet.

The Village Board has been advised by the Corp that the boat ramp is not in need of repairs and that the Corp will not be extending the ramp.

Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Rulo Village Board Chairman Becky Simmonds.

(KLZA)-- The Village of Rulo has announced in a Facebook post that the boat ramp to the Missouri River at Rulo is temporarily closed due to what the Army Corps of Engineers has declared to be historic lows on the river.

The low water levels are affecting most ramp access along the Missouri River.

The decision was made by the Village Board so people will not damage any of their property when trying to get on the river.

The ramp will be reopened when the river gauge level reaches six feet.

The Village Board has been advised by the Corp that the boat ramp is not in need of repairs and that the Corp will not be extending the ramp.

Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Rulo Village Board Chairman Becky Simmonds.

(KLZA)-- The Village of Rulo has announced in a Facebook post that the boat ramp to the Missouri River at Rulo is temporarily closed due to what the Army Corps of Engineers has declared to be historic lows on the river.

The low water levels are affecting most ramp access along the Missouri River.

The decision was made by the Village Board so people will not damage any of their property when trying to get on the river.

The ramp will be reopened when the river gauge level reaches six feet.

The Village Board has been advised by the Corp that the boat ramp is not in need of repairs and that the Corp will not be extending the ramp.

Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Rulo Village Board Chairman Becky Simmonds.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Volunteer Fire Department and members of the Falls City Rural Fire Department responded to a garage fire at 2402 Abbott Street in Falls City shortly before noon on Saturday. The owner of the garage is Monty Kroeze.

A passing motorist called the fire in. When firefighters arrived the fire could be seen on the east side of the garage burning up to the eve and the roof where it later broke through. There was no one home at the time and no injuries were reported.

The State Fire Marshall was called to investigate the cause due to the heavy fire damage. It appears the fire started outside the garage along the alley side, but remain under investigation. The cause of the fire is currently listed as undetermined.

A release from the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department says the damage was estimated to be in the neighborhood of $50 thousand due to the structural damage and the loss of personal property stored inside.

Fire fighters remained on the scene for approximately four-and-a-half hours.

The Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad and the Falls City Utility Department also responded to the scene of the fire.

(KNZA)--An Oklahoma woman, suspected of trafficking large quantities of marijuana into Kansas, was arrested Saturday morning in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said a Sheriff’s Deputy stopped a SUV for a traffic infraction in a construction zone on U.S. 75 Highway near Netawaka.

He said further investigation led deputies to discover a large quantity of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle.

The driver, identified as 36-year-old Kristian Shepherd, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for felony distribution of marijuana, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp.

(KNZA)--The quick action of a neighbor and quick response of firefighters is being credited with saving a Horton business from being destroyed by fire.

The fire was reported last Thursday evening at Werner Wagon Works at 1705 Yates Avenue on the eastside of Mission Lake.

Co-Owner Connie Werner said Charlie Hutfles was driving home from his job as a teacher when he saw their shop was on fire. He drove to the Werner's to let them know and also called the fire department.

Firefighters from the Horton and Everest Fire Departments responded.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

(KNZA)--One person died after a rural Mayetta home was destroyed by fire Sunday morning.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said emergency responders were dispatched to a report of a structure fire at 10673 174th Road shortly before 8:30.

Firefighters from the  Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, Mayetta, Delia and Hoyt Fire Departments along with Jackson County EMS, Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Police and Jackson County Sheriff's Office responded.    

Upon arrival, Morse said responders found the residence had previously burnt to the ground. He said its believed to have started during the night time hours.

The only occupant of the residence is believed to have died in the fire.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office also responded to the scene.  

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The name of the victim is not yet being made public until official identification is made and the notification of relatives.

(KNZA)--A Topeka man was taken into custody early Saturday morning in Jackson County following a multi-county pursuit in a stolen vehicle.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said the pursuit involving a stolen 1978 Chevy pickup initially began in the City of Topeka by Topeka Police.

Another pursuit with the same vehicle ensued later with the Kansas Highway Patrol and Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office that went west into Pottawatomie County.  

The pursuit then entered Jackson County at the Pottawatomie County line on 110 Road around 1:15.  The pursuit continued eastbound where Jackson County deputies and Hoyt Police deployed stop sticks which deflated three of the four tires. The Chevy truck then struck a Capital Police patrol car head on west of Hoyt.  

A Shawnee County deputy and a Jackson County deputy each attempted to disable the vehicle through a tactical vehicle intervention technique.  The vehicle came to a stop just west of the Jefferson County line on 114th Road shortly before 2:00 Saturday morning.

Morse said the driver, identified as 36-year-old Jeffery Peak, was arrested by troopers and booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of flee or attempt to elude, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer and possession of stolen property. Peak is being held on a $100,000 bond.

A passenger in the vehicle was released.

No injuries were reported during the incident.

( KMZA)--Two Sabetha men convicted on child sex charges have been sentenced to prison.

Nemaha County Attorney Brad Lippert said 41-year-old Marvin Nix was sentenced Thursday to nearly 18 years in prison ( 214 months) on charges of aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated indecent liberties with a child.  A request for probation was denied.

Nix pleaded no contest to the charges in January. In exchange for the plea, an additional count of aggravated criminal sodomy was dismissed.

Nix was charged in connection with sex offenses involving a child under the age of 14 occurring on or between June 1 and August 23, 2021.

In a separate case, Lippert said Jesse Davis was sentenced Thursday to nearly 3 ½ years in prison ( 41 months) on charges of indecent liberties with a child and sexual exploitation of a child.  A request for probation was denied.

Davis pleaded no contest to the charges in December. In exchange for the plea, two additional counts were dismissed.

The offenses date back to 2017.

Lippert said both Davis and Nix will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of their lives.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Board of Education approved the hiring of three full-time teachers for the 2022-23 school year when they met Monday evening.

Jordan Amundson will be the new School Psychologist. Cory Horejs will be the Info Tech/Business teacher and Laura Johns will be the new Vocal Music teacher and will fill the Tech Integration position.

Board members approve the recommendation from the Building and Grounds Committee to approve the purchase order for a 2022 Ford Transit Connect minivan from Zoellner Ford in Beatrice at a cost of $27,672. The van will be paid for from the Depreciation Fund.

The Pawnee City School District will continue membership in the Nebraska Association of School Boards for the 2022-23 school year at a cost of $3,720.

A number of Education Foundation expenses were approved including more than $115-thousand for various scholarships, $20 thousand for the Southeast Community College Learn to Dream program, $8 thousand for the school newsletter printing and mailing, $5-thousand for the Helping Hands funds to support the Food Bank backpack program.

(KLZA)-- Two people were hospitalized following two wrecks in northwest Missouri on Tuesday.

Tuesday morning just before 11, 70-year-old Miles Ruch of Craig, Missouri suffered what were described as moderate injuries when the pickup he was driving east on U.S. Highway 36 approximately two miles east of St. Joseph traveled off the roadway, into the median and skidded across the westbound lanes before going down an embankment and overturning, coming to rest on its top.

Ruch was transported by the Buchanan County EMS to Mosaic Life Care Hospital in St. Joseph.

About 8:40 Tuesday evening a car driven by 24-year-old Sara Skalberg of Shenandoah, Iowa attempted to merge to the driving lane shoulder in the northbound lane of Interstate 29 and struck the trailer of a semi-truck operated by 28-year-old Harpreet Singh of Fresno, California.

Both vehicles skidded to the driving lane shoulder coming to rest facing south.

Skalberg was transported by the Atchison-Holt Ambulance District to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with serious injures. She was not wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck.

The wreck occurred approximately 13 miles south of Mound City.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the expenditure of $20,080 for updated communications equipment for the Emergency Management Agency when they met Tuesday.

Haug Communications of Seneca submitted an informal quote for the “Mindshare Max Plus” unit and supporting equipment. The company has worked with First Wireless so it will be compatible with newly acquired communication equipment for the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center and that which was purchased by the Falls City Police Department.

The Board also approved a quote from Brown Remodeling for repairs and improvements needed within the Courthouse including completion of a suspended ceiling within the Clerk of the District Court office, updating an area on the third floor to a usable conference room and to complete an area within the Military Museum area where new plumbing was run through to reach other areas of the Courthouse.

A purchase order for replacement and installation of restroom fixtures in the Lower Level of the Courthouse for approximately $1,500 with Meyer Home Center of Falls City was also approved.

(KLZA) -- Two more people have thrown their hat into the ring seeking a position on the Falls City Board of Education.

Three seats are up for election. Incumbents John Martin and Richard Malcolm both filed for reelection prior to the February 15 deadline for incumbents to file. Kevin Scheitel is not seeking reelection to the Board.

Filing to run for the Falls City School Board is Anthony Johansen of Rulo and Cassondra Goff of Salem. The school board seats are four-year, non-partisan terms.

Currently five people have filed for the three seats up for election.

Amanda Morehead of Rulo has filed to run for a four-year term on the Village of Rulo Board of Trustees.

The deadline to file for the May primary election is March 1.

(KNZA)--Beginning Monday, February 21 through March 4, the Hiawatha Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma with increased enforcement near high schools to raise awareness on roadway safety.  

According to a news release, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens (15-18 years old) in the United States – ahead of all other types of injury, diseases or violence.  

The release says officers will issue citations to any individual who refuses to obey the traffic laws, whether it is for speeding, texting or failing to buckle up.  

The release says remind teens that driving is a privilege and encourage them to learn about the importance of driving safely.  Also remind them to slow down, put their phone away or turn it off, and always buckle up.

(KNZA)--The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education, when they meet last week, approved bids for the installation of new HVAC units at the district's three schools.

The HVAC upgrades are part of an up to $7 million bond issue approved by USD 430 voters last November.

The board approved U.S. Engineering to install the HVAC systems in all three buildings.

Shelley Electric will be the electrical contractor for the Elementary and Middle schools. Ziegler Electric will be doing the electrical work for the High School.

Superintendent Jason Cline said the cost for all services totals nearly $3.9 million, which is nearly $17,000 below the HVAC estimated budget.

Cline said the next big project to bid out will be replacement of the doors and windows at all the buildings. A pre-bid meeting for that project will be held on Monday, February 21.

Currently, he said they are nearly $248,000 below the projected cost for the projects that have been approved so far.

(KNZA)--Sabetha High School Principal David Glynn has resigned.

Prairie Hills USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans said the Board of Education accepted his resignation when they meet Monday evening, effective June 30.

Glynn has served as principal the past four years and prior to that was an English teacher at Sabetha HIgh School for five years.

Evans said the Board also accepted the retirement resignations of three longtime teachers, effective at the end of the current school year.

Sabetha High School family and consumer science teacher Pam Walker is retiring after 25 years.

Sabetha Middle School social studies teacher Pete Schuetz is retiring after 30 years and Sabetha Middle School technology teacher Linda White is retiring after 40 years.

The Board expressed their appreciation to the three teachers for their service.

Following an executive session, the Board approved contract extensions for the district's three principals and assistant superintendent through the 2023-24 school year.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is facing criminal charges after allegedly forcing his way into an Atchison residence while the occupant of the home was inside.  

25-year Jarvis Grace was arrested Wednesday on charges of aggravated burglary, criminal damage to property, criminal trespass, and interference with law enforcement.  

HHS gym to get new scoreboards

Posted Thursday, February 17th, 2022 1:16pm

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha High School gymnasium will be getting new scoreboards and a new scorer's table.

Hiawatha Booster Club President Jodi Twombly told the school board Monday evening that the current scoreboards were purchased in 1989 and are at the end of their useful life. In addition, the board was told a lot of the parts are obsolete and impossible to find.

Twombly estimated the total cost for the purchase of two digital scoreboards and a scorer's table would be around $30,000.

She said the Booster Club has agreed to pay $15,000 toward the cost of the project and asked the board for assistance in covering the rest.

Following discussion, the board voted to contribute up to $19,900, pending an official bid.

The new scoreboards are to be installed this summer.

The board heard a presentation from High School Career Specialist Kelly Griswold on the JAG-K program, which is currently in its second year.

The national program prepares students to be successful after high school and is offered as an in-school elective class.

She said the program has grown from 45 students last year to 60 students this school year.

In other business, the board approved a calendar for next school year. The first day of school will be August 18 and the last day of school will be May 24.

Following an executive session, the board approved the hiring of Megan Mueller as elementary school counselor for the 2022-23 school year and Cyndi Florence as high school softball head coach.

(KLZA)-- A proposal to expand the Richardson County Jail by up to 40 beds has been put on hold by the Richardson County Citizens Advisory Committee.

More than 20 people attending the third meeting of the Committee Wednesday evening at the Richardson County Courthouse asking questions and providing input about the proposal.

Andy Fornay with D.A. Davidson, a public finance company said the company estimated property taxes on a $100-thousand property would increase approximately $32 annually on a 15 year bond or just over $25 annually for a 20 year bond.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty estimated an expansion of beds could potentially bring in from $438 thousand to $625 thousand annually if 20 of the new beds were used to house state and federal prisoners in Richardson County. Those funds would be used to pay expenses including an estimated four more employees with the rest used to help make the annual bond payment.

Hardesty said in the past five months, Richardson County has spent approximately $14 thousand to house prisoners at other facilities when the current 24-bed jail was at capacity.

Following comments from the audience that were mostly concerns about additional taxes to local residents and safety the committee went to another room to discuss the topic amongst themselves.

When the committee returned, Chairman Ray Joy said the consensus of the committee was for Commissioners to continue to investigate the issue further, gather more information and revisit the issue in a couple of years.

Sheriff Hardesty said that he has no issues with the proposal being delayed at this time, noting that his department will keep doing the job they are doing and determine where extra prisoners will be taken to in the future.

Denny Macomber with Nebraska Jail Standards was in attendance to help answer questions during the meeting. He said that he felt Jail Standards would support the proposal to add beds to the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center.

Macomber said smaller jails are having trouble finding employees and that is causing some to close. He said 7 -8 jails in the past few years have added beds to new facilities after five or six years of being open.

Macomber said that it is likely that if beds were added to the Richardson County facility, other counties along with state and federal agencies would likely utilize the facility to house prisoners, noting it is happening routinely around the state.

The committee was facing a deadline of March 1 to advise the County Board to move forward with a proposal to add beds to the facility if the measure were to be on the May primary election ballot.

(KMZA)--Following several years of discussion, bids have been approved for construction and remodeling projects at three schools in Prairie Hills USD 113.

The USD 113 Board of Education took the action when they meet Monday evening on a 6-1 vote, with board member Jim Scoby casting the lone dissenting vote.

Superintendent Todd Evans said the board approved a guaranteed maximum price of $4.893 million presented by Jay Herrmann of AHRS Construction, construction manager at risk on the project.

The project will include renovation of the Sabetha Elementary, Axtell and Wetmore schools.  In addition, the project includes new construction at the Sabetha Elementary School of a media center, music room and gym. The media center and music room will be storm shelter-rated. 

Work is to begin around April 1.

The project will be paid for using contingency funds, capital outlay funds and through a lease-purchase agreement.  In addition, an anonoymous donor is providing $500,000 for the project.

(KLZA)-- A staff member at the Tecumseh state Correctional Institution was seriously injured when assaulted by an inmate Tuesday afternoon.

A news release from the Nebraska Department of Corrections says the assault occurred inside an office where the staff member was interviewing the inmate about a recent infraction when the inmate suddenly moved toward him, and began punching him in the head and face.

A second staff member who was in the office secured the inmate. The injured staff member was treated at the hospital for a broken nose.

Results of an investigation will be provided to the Johnson County Attorney for determination of criminal prosecution.

(KAIR)--A Doniphan County jury has found an Atchison man guilty of second-degree murder in the 2019 beating death of a Cummings man.

The jury returned the verdict Wednesday afternoon against Matthew " Cole" Scherer following a trial that began Monday.

Sentencing was set for March 28.

Scherer was among three Atchison men charged in the death of 42-year-old Jason Pantle.

Scott Vandeloo was sentenced in December to just over 4 years in prison on a reduced charge of involuntary manslaughter in the case, while Brian Spilman, Jr., was sentenced in November to more than 2 ½ years in prison after a jury found him guilty of the same offense.    

Authorities allege the trio engaged in altercations with Pantle during a September 22, 2019 party in southern Doniphan County.  He died several days later at a Kansas City hospital after suffering what investigators called serious head injuries.

(KAIR)--One driver is dead, and another injured, following a head-on, Leavenworth County crash mid-morning Tuesday.

Details regarding the specifics of the wreck remain unreleased as the investigation by the Kansas Highway Patrol Continues.

According to the KHP’s preliminary report, one driver was pronounced dead at the scene while the other was transported to an area hospital for the treatment of unspecified injuries.

Both drivers were traveling alone.

The wreck happened on U.S. Highway 73 and Edwards Drive, in Leavenworth County.

Names are withheld as the investigation continues.

(KNZA)--NEK-CAP has announced the relocation of their North Brown County Head Start Center for next school year.
 
The program currently operates the Head Start Center at the Administrative Office located just outside of Hiawatha.

According to a release from NEK-CAP, the program has a current contract with the Crossroads Wesleyan Church, located near Sabetha. The site had previously operated a Head Start Center, as well as Early Head Start staff.

NEK-CAP plans to move their North Brown County Head Start Center to the church located at 110 260th Road to begin the 2022-2023 school year. The center will be located in the basement of the church.

The administration office will remain at the current building located on 220th Road in rural Hiawatha.

 NEK-CAP says they are excited and look forward to this new opportunity.

Those with questions should contact Kimberly Lackey, Early Head Start/Head Start Director, at 785-742-2222, extension 160.

If you would like to enroll your child into the Head Start program, please contact 785-742-2222, extension 114. You may also visit their website at nekcap.org to start your application.

(KLZA)-- Following an executive session to evaluate the job performance of Principal Lucus Dalinghaus Monday night, the Johnson-Brock Board of Education unanimously approved extending the principals contact through the 2023-24 school year with a salary increase of $3 thousand for the 2022-23 school year.

The Board approved a $700 increase on the base salary for teachers and added a second FFA sponsor and increasing the daily pay for substitute teachers to $130, effective March 1.

Johnson-Brock Board members also approved the summer driver education program tuition rate at $250 per student and approved a contract with Tim Newman to be the 2022 summer driver education instructor at a rate of $150 per student.

Superintendent Jeff Koehler informed the Board that Nebraska City Public Schools will continue to COOP sports and offered options for boys and girls tennis, golf, wrestling and cross country. The fee would remain the same regardless of the sport.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education approved three faculty resignations when they met Monday evening.

The Board accepted the resignations of Speech-Language Pathologist Sherry Maddox who had been with the Falls City Schools for 12 years and Speech-Language Pathologist Kris Vrtiska who has been with District 56 for seven years. The Board also accepted a resignation from Taylor Kearney who has served six years with the district as an elementary teacher, Title I teacher and volleyball coach.

Faculty contracts were approved for the 2022-23 school year for Chelsey Sullivan to teach 6th Grade; Ethan Sullivan as Assistant High School Principal and Meghan Robeson as Academic Assessment Coordinator.

In other action the Board approved the purchase of a new Blue Bird School Bus from Nebraska Central Equipment at a cost of $114,296; approved the High School rood replacement bid in an amount of $239,997 to Schwickert's / Tecta America. An insurance claim is expected to cover $152 thousand of that cost leaving a balance just shy of $90 thousand.

The 2022-23 school year calendar was also approved. The first day of classes for the next school year will be August 18 with the final day of the year on May 25, 2023.

(KLZA)-- Two Richardson County School Board incumbents filed for reelection prior to the Tuesday deadline for incumbents.

Richard Malcolm filed for another 4 – year term on the Falls City School Board and Scott Ogle of Dawson filed for reelection to the HTRS School Board.

Non-incumbents have until March 1 to file for the May 1 primary election.

In Falls City, Shawn Fouraker has filed to run for the Ward III City Council seat up for election in Falls City. Fouraker is the second person to file for the position currently held by Mitch Merz.

(KLZA)-- The City of Tecumseh has been recognized for success in the Nebraska Leadership Certified Community Program.

Efforts by the city of Tecumseh to build local and state economic partnerships have resulted in business expansion, housing and downtown development efforts over the past five years according to a release from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.

City leaders were recognized for their continuous success in the state's Leadership Certified Community program during a special presentation on February 7.

Over the past five years, Tecumseh developers have created steady and sustained growth through the City's Local Option Municipal Development Act Program. In the past two years the Tecumseh development Committee has loaned or granted more than $160 thousand in LB840 funds to improve or expand businesses.

In addition, LB840 funds have been utilized to assist in the removal of 48 dilapidated properties in the community with several of those now-vacant properties creating new housing opportunities.

(KAIR)--A weekend fire that claimed the life of an Easton woman remains under investigation.

According to the Leavenworth Times, a 75-year-old woman died as a result of the fire that occurred early Saturday morning in the 200 block of Kickapoo Street, in Easton.

According to the newspaper, the house was engulfed in flames when deputies and firefighters arrived, shortly before 4:30 Saturday morning, which prevented fire crews from entering the home.

The name of the victim is not immediately made public.

Citing the Leavenworth County Sheriff, the newspaper reports that the fire is not considered suspicious.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office is assisting with the investigation.

(KAIR)--A Tuesday evening accidental shooting at an Atchison residence sent a man to the hospital.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson told MSC News the 28-year-old man “sustained a non life threatening injury and was taken to the hospital by private vehicle for treatment.”

The victim, according to Wilson, “told officers he was cleaning the handgun when it discharged and a bullet struck him in the shoulder.”

The shooting happened shortly after 8:00 Tuesday night.

The investigation is continuing.

(KAIR)--Face masks will no longer be required to be worn in the Atchison Public Schools.

That follows action of the Board of Education for USD 409 this week, changing the school district’s coronavirus remediation plan from “requiring” the wearing of face masks to “strongly encouraging” that they be worn.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Renee Nugent, told MSC News the change goes into effect Thursday.

Other related changes were also approved for the school district’s Safe Return to School and Continuity of Services Plan on a unanimous vote of the Board of Education during Monday evening’s meeting of the school board.

The changes include resuming contact tracing for school exposures, offering the option of Test to Stay for identified school related close contacts, a five day isolation period for those who test positive, and that a positivity/quarantine rate of 2% or higher at any school district building will restore the district wide wearing of masks for a minimum of 10 days or until the rate falls below 2%.

Despite the approved changes, masks remain required to be worn on school transportation until the expiration of current federal regulations.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved bids for needed repairs at the Fisher Center.

The Commission accepted the lone bid received from Emery Glass Company for the replacement of the front and back entrance doors in the amount of $18,776. They will be replaced with automatic doors to make them ADA compliant.

The Commission accepted a bid from Pierce Heating and Cooling for the replacement of the loft HVAC unit in the amount of $16,170, and a bid from Koehn Cooling for the replacement of the two AC units in the gym in the amount of $9,685. Bids were received from the three companies.

In other business, the Commission voted to donate land to the Brown County Historical Society between their Ag Museum property and the Fisher Center.  Historical Society President Gary Shear told the Commission the organization would like to construct a building on the property to house 41 historic windmills. Shear said the building would serve as a memorial to those who set the windmills down Windmill Lane.

On the recommend of the Hiawatha Fire Department, the Commission approved an application from Broderick Jones to be a volunteer firefighter.

Also at the request Street Superintendent Nic Siebenmorgen, the Commission voted to solicit bids for the resealing and re-striping of Oregon Street. The money saved from not purchasing an equipment trailer will be used to fund the project.

(KMZA)--Nemaha Central USD 115 has begun the search for a new superintendent.

The Board of Education Monday evening accepted the retirement resignation of Darrel Kohlman, effective June 30.

Kohlman has served as superintendent since 2010.

The board voted to hire Greenbush to assist the school district in its search for a new superintendent at a cost of $4,100.

(KAIR)---The damage to just under 20 mailboxes, located in Atchison County, is under the investigation of the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office.

 According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, “deputies were notified [on Saturday] of mailboxes being damaged in the Effingham area.” Laurie, in the release, says that the initial investigation led to the discovery “that at least 17 mailboxes were damaged overnight between Farmington and Muscotah.”  

The investigation is continuing.  

In a separate probe, the Sheriff’s Office is seeking whoever’s responsible for the theft of a package from the porch of an Atchison County residence.  

Laurie, in his report, says the resident, on Friday, “reported a package stolen from the porch in the 19000 block of 298th Road.  The value of the missing package is estimated at $350.  

The Sheriff’s Office is also investigating damage committed at the Mount Vernon Cemetery.  According to Laurie, a representative of the cemetery, on Sunday, reported that a barbed wire fence, located on the east side of the property, had been cut.  It remains unknown when the damage happened.  

Anyone with information related to any of the cases should contact the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office at 913-367-4323.

(KNZA)--A boil water advisory has been rescinded for the Lakeside Village Improvement District in Jefferson County.

That word came Tuesday from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

The advisory was issued February 7 because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system due to a waterline break.

KDHE says laboratory testing samples collected from Lakeside Village Improvement District indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.  

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

According to the Kansas Secretary of State's Office, Atchison Republican John Eplee and Sabetha Republican Randy Garber have filed for re-election to the Kansas House of Representatives.

Garber representatives the 62nd District, which includes Brown and Nemaha Counties and portions of Atchison and Jackson Counties. He has held the position since 2011.

Eplee representatives the 63rd District, which includes Doniphan County and a portion of Atchison County. He has held the position since 2017.

Candidates have until noon, June 1 to file.

The primary election will be held August 2 and the general election will be November 8.

(KNZA)--A new general manager is on the job at the Brown-Atchison Electric Cooperative.

Michael Volker replaces Jim Currie who retired effective January 31 after nearly 44 years of service with the electric cooperative.

Volker will serve as a shared general manager with the Doniphan Electric Cooperative, in Troy.

He comes to Kansas from Madison, South Dakota, having previously lived in Kansas from 1999 until 2014.

He and his wife, Kathy, recently purchased a home in Hiawatha.

Volker has spent the last 22 years working for electric cooperatives.

The Brown-Atchison Electric Cooperative will hold their annual meeting at noon on February 24 at their headquarters building in Horton.

(KLZA)-- Tuesday, February 15 is the deadline for incumbents to file for reelection for the Nebraska May primary election.

In Richardson County two incumbents have filed recently.

District 1 County Commissioner John Caverzagie will seek a second term running on the Republican ticket.

Kimberly Riggs, will seek the position of Richardson County Assessor on the Republican ticket. Riggs was appointed to the position previously.

In another filing, Jeromie Brown has filed for the Ward III City Council seat in Falls City.

Non-incumbents have until March 1 to file for the primary election.

(KNZA)--Five local northeast Kansas communities have been awarded grants for infrastructure improvements.

 Atchison, Hiawatha, Highland, Marysville and Valley Falls are among 40 rural Kansas communities that will receive Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) totaling more than $17.6 million.  

Governor Laura Kelly announced the grant awards Friday.  

The city of Atchison was awarded $370,000 for sidewalk improvements.

Hiawatha will receive a $600,000 grant for improvements to the lift station and sanitary sewer system.  

The city of Highland was awarded a $600,000 grant for street improvements.  

Marysville will receive a $600,000 grant for sanitary sewer treatment facility improvements  

Valley Falls was awarded a $600,000 grant for sanitary sewer system improvements  

The awards are administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and granted from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Small Cities CDBG program.

(KNZA)--A Troy woman has filed for district judge in the 22nd Judicial District.

According to the Kansas Secretary of State's Office, Laura Johnson-McNish filed earlier this month as a Republican candidate for the post.  

She currently serves as a magistrate judge in the 22nd Judicial District, which includes Brown, Doniphan, Nemaha and Marshall Counties.  

Johnson-McNish was appointed magistrate judge in July 2019 to fill the unexpired term of retiring magistrate judge Roy Roper, of Troy.  Her office is in Doniphan County.  

She previously served as Marshall County Attorney.  

Johnson-McNish said that current District Judge Jim Patton has told her he does not intend to run again.  Patton has served as district judge since January 1995 and chief judge since 2001.  

Candidates have until noon, June 1 to file.  The primary election will be held August 2 and the general election will be November 8.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Sunday morning in Leavenworth.

The KBI said just before 5:00 Sunday morning a female subject called 911 to report that a male acquaintance was near 4th and  Miami Streets in Leavenworth, and was armed with a handgun.

The KBI said preliminary information indicates that officers from the Leavenworth Police Department, the Lansing Police Department, and the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area. Upon arriving they located an armed man standing in the middle of the street at the intersection of 5th and Seneca Streets. They blocked traffic and began to negotiate with the man, who was later identified as 31-year-old Donald Barden Jr., of Leavenworth.

From a distance, the KBI said they attempted to convince him to drop his gun. During the incident Barden ignored commands, waved his gun around, and made suicidal statements.

At about 6:20 a.m., the KBI said Barden ran toward officers while pointing his gun in their direction. One officer from the Leavenworth Police Department and one officer from the Lansing Police Department fired rounds toward Barden, striking him. At the same time, another officer from the Leavenworth Police Department fired bean bag rounds at Barden. 

Officers then rendered aid to Barden. EMS, who had been waiting nearby during the incident, responded and took over life-saving measures. EMS transported Barden to the University of Kansas Hospital, in Kansas City,  where at last report he was listed in critical, but stable condition.

The KBI said no law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.

The Leavenworth Police Department requested the KBI investigate the shooting.

Once the investigation is complete, the KBI said findings will be turned over to the Leavenworth County Attorney for review.

The investigation is ongoing. No further information will be released at this time.

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — Authorities are investigating after a police officer shot and critically wounded a stabbing suspect in Leavenworth.

The shooting happened around 5 a.m. Sunday near the intersection of Fifth and Seneca streets.

Leavenworth Police Chief Pat Kitchens said the Kansas Bureau of Investigation will review the shooting.

Kitchens said officers were looking for a suspect in a stabbing in Lansing at the time.

Kitchens said there was a brief standoff between the officers and the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Donald Barden, Jr. of Leavenworth, who had a handgun before an officer shot him.

Barden was taken to a hospital in critical condition. 

(KAIR)--A firefighter was injured early Saturday while battling a blaze that caused heavy damage to an Atchison home. 

Atchison Fire Chief Pat Weishaar said fire crews responded to the fire at 927 Mound Street around 12:50, with reports indicating there were flames and black smoke inside the residence.  

When crews arrived, Weishaar said they found the rear of the structure to be  fully involved in fire.  

He said crews made an interior attack to battle the flames when one of the department's firefighters sustained an injury.

The injured firefighter was able to be pulled to safety by a fellow firefighter where they were treated by Atchison County EMS who was on scene for standby.

The firefighter was transported to Amberwell hospital where they were treated and later released.  

Weishaar said the resident of the home was able to escape safely and received assistance from the Atchison Salvation Army who also responded to assist First Responders. The Atchison Police Department also assisted.

A family pet was rescued by fire department personnel and treated by EMS. There was no immediate word on the pet’s condition.
 
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

HIGHLAND, Kan. (AP) — Three former coaches at a northeast Kansas community college allege in a lawsuit that the school wanted to reduce the number of Black student-athletes on campus.

KCUR reports that the lawsuit filed in federal court last week contends Highland Community College asked coaches not to recruit Black athletes, discouraged Black students from attending the college and intimidated Black athletes into leaving.

Highland officials deny the allegations.

Fewer than 6% of Highland's 3,200 students are Black.

The lawsuit was filed by B.J. Smith, the former women’s basketball coach; Bradford Zinn, a former assistant coach; and Jered Ross, also a former assistant coach.

Zinn and Ross, who are Black, and Smith, who is white, left the school in 2020 after their contracts were not renewed when they refused to resign.

The lawsuit names the college; its president, Deborah Fox; its athletic director, Bryan Dorrel; and a member of its board of trustees, Russell Karn.

Fox, who became the school's president in March 2019, said in an email that the school “adamantly denies” the coaches' allegations.

She said the lawsuit will allow the college to present its side of the story.

The lawsuit mirrors one filed on behalf of four Black students in March 2020 by the ACLU of Kansas, which alleged that Highland expelled Black students for minor or bogus infractions and subjected them to arbitrary searches, surveillance and harassment on campus. In a settlement, the school agreed to pay up to $15,000 to each of them and pledged to provide anti-discrimination and Fourth Amendment training to staff and administrators.

(KNZA)--A 4-vehicle wreck in Holton Friday afternoon sent one person to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 75 Highway, north of 9th Street, shortly before 4:15.

The Patrol says the exact sequence of events is unknown, but a northbound pickup truck driven by 68-year-old Jerry Nelson, of Soldier, slowed for slower traffic in the front and was struck in the rear by a pickup truck driven by 67-year-old Kevin Rooney, of Fairview.  A car driven by 50-year-old Shawn McBride, of Wichita, struck Rooney's pickup in the rear and a car driven by 44-year-old Toby Harris, of Sabetha, struck McBride's vehicle in the rear.

McBride was transported to the Holton Community Hospital with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says none of the other driver's were hurt.

All the drivers were buckled up at the time of the wreck.         

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the Needs Assessment Study update for the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center when they met Tuesday.

The study will be submitted to Nebraska Jail Standards.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported he has received formal notification approving funding through the County Bridge Match program from the Nebraska Department of Transportation for replacement of a bridge on 710 Road a half mile south of 655 Avenue.

Darveau also noted that crews are hauling rock to the stock piles to be used on roads when conditions allow for placement.

Emergency Management Director Brian Kirkendall met with Commissioners explaining the need for updated equipment for the Emergency Management Agency. The equipment would be compatible with the newly acquired systems being installed with the Richardson County Sheriff's Office and the Falls City Police Department. The system known as “Mindshare” would also allow the Emergency Management Agency to set up a remote communication system at the site of emergencies if necessary.

(KNZA)--Plans for the construction of a travel plaza west of Fairview moves forward.

Sabetha-based Keim TS is proposing to construct the facility north of their truck wash, at the junction of U.S. 36 and U.S. 75 Highways.

The Fairview City Council last week approved a resolution of intent to issue up to $5 million in industrial revenue bonds for the project.

The Council also approved a contract for the sale of property next to the Fairview ball diamond to Keim for additional truck parking. Keim has offered to pay the city $15,000 for the property.

In addition, the Council approved a sales tax exemption form for the project. Keim plans to seek a state sales tax exemption for construction materials.

The action comes after the Council at their December 2nd meeting approved a building permit for the project.

(KNZA)--The jury trial for the last of three Atchison men charged in the 2019 beating death of a Cummings man is to begin Monday in Doniphan County District Court.

 Matthew “Cole” Scherer is charged with second-degree murder in the death of 42-year-old Jason Pantle.

 The trial is scheduled for five days.  

Scott Vandeloo was sentenced in December to 4 years and one month in prison on a reduced charge of involuntary manslaughter in the case, while Brian Spilman, Jr., was sentenced in November to more than 2 ½ years in prison after a jury found him guilty of the same offense.    

 Authorities allege the trio engaged in altercations with Pantle during a September 22, 2019 party in southern Doniphan County.  He died several days later at a Kansas City hospital after suffering what investigators called serious head injuries.

(KAIR)--An Effingham woman died from an allergic reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine.

That’s confirmed in the autopsy report for 68-year-old Jeanie Evans who died in March of last year after receiving the coronavirus vaccine in Jefferson County.

The autopsy report, confirming Evans’ cause of death, was obtained, and first reported on, by the Topeka Capital-Journal.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, following an inquiry from MSC News following Evans’ death, released a statement saying that the agency was aware of the death of a 68-year-old Atchison County resident who had been vaccinated in Jefferson County, and explained that “according to the Local Health Department, appropriate CDC guidelines were followed.” The day following Evans’ vaccination, she died at a Topeka hospital.

According to the autopsy, Evans’ cause of death is listed as “anaphylaxis due to COVID-19 vaccination.”

The Mayo Clinic defines anaphylaxis as a severe, potentially life- threatening allergic reaction, which can range from bee stings and peanuts to vaccinations.

Evans served on the Effingham City Council at the time of her death.

(KNZA)--Improvements are planned to several Doniphan County road.

Following discussion, the Doniphan County Commission on Monday approved improvements to portions of three county roads.  

They include the placement of a three-inch asphalt overlay and shoulder rock on 175th Road from the Wathena city limits to Peck Road at a cost of nearly $661,000.  

Placement of a three-inch asphalt overlay and shoulder rock on Elgin Road, south of K-20 Highway to St. Benedict's Road, at a minimum cost of $187,170.

Improvement of a 5 ½ mile stretch of 150th Road from K-7 Highway east to Port William Road at a cost of $10,800 per mile, with the county Road Department performing the work.  The project will include ditch work, build up and rocking of the roadway.  

In other business, the Commission accepted the low bid submitted by Kiefer Excavating, of Wathena, for a culvert replacement project on 140th Road, a half-mile east of Ottumwa Road in the amount of $24,480.  It was among three bids received.  The project is to be completed by April 1st of this year.

(KNZA)--An area police department is urging residents to be vigilant when it comes to protecting their identity and money.  

The warning is issued by the Hiawatha Police Department which, in a social media post, says they are actively investigating multiple reports of theft where some residents lost their money to scammers.  

According to the post, one incident of theft involves potential suspects in Florida, New York City and California.

The Department says they were contacted Wednesday by a local financial institution which reported their customers are being asked for personal information by an unknown person, who also instructs them to download a new banking app and for the scam-target to enter personal information into the smart phone application.

Residents are reminded not to do business with anyone they don't know, and not to give out personal information to such unknown callers.  

The post says if anyone attempts to obtain your personal information and/or money, and if you have even a remote thought it could be a scam, call, or visit, the Hiawatha Police Department at 785-742-2156.  Any other such scam attempts, attempted in other local locations, should be reported to the applicable agency.

(KNZA)--An early Monday morning Brown County traffic stop led to the arrest of a Falls City man on drug charges.

According to a report from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, a deputy initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of 250th and Kestrel Roads around 12:20.

Upon contact with the driver, identified as 50-year-old James Scarberry, it was discovered his drivers license was  suspended.

Merchant said about 28 grams of methamphetamine was taken into evidence.

Scarberry was arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia, no drug tax stamp and distribution of meth, along with driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man has pleaded no contest to second-degree murder for the shooting death last year of a 12-year-old boy outside a Leavenworth pharmacy.

Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said  26-year-old Darvon Thomas entered the plea Tuesday in Leavenworth County District Court, admitting to his role in the April death of 12-year-old Brian Henderson, of Kansas City, Missouri.

Thompson said the boy was not the intended target, but simply in the backseat of a car with someone meeting Thomas to sell a gun when the deal went bad and someone with Thomas began shooting. Two teens allegedly with Thomas during the shooting are also standing trial.

Thomas is set to be sentenced in March. 

(KLZA)-- Following a nearly 90-minute executive session of the Richardson County Commissioners Tuesday, that included County Attorney Doug Merz, Sheriff Rick Hardesty, Deputy County Sheriff Roland Merwin and Falls City Police Chief Jamie Baker, Commissioners requested County Attorney Merz to contact the Beatrice City Attorney, regarding a request by Richardson County to amend the Emergency Dispatch Services Interlocal Agreement between the City of Beatrice and Richardson County.

 In a letter sent to Southeast Communications 911 Center in January, Richardson County asked Beatrice Police Chief Bruce Lang, to identify steps necessary to terminate the contract Richardson County signed in the summer of 2021 with Southeast Communications 911 Center in Beatrice for dispatch services or at the very least, renegotiated.

The letter mentioned there “seems to be issues between the Falls City Police Department and Southeast Communications” which were complicating emergency dispatches for the Richardson County Sheriff's Office.

Chief Lang responded in a January 28 letter the agreement could be terminated for $360 thousand minus the amount Richardson County had paid already amounting to $90 thousand, leaving a buyout amount of $270 thousand.

The letter noted that the Southeast 911 Center had received no cooperation from the Falls City Police Department or Sheriff Rick Hardesty in setting a meeting to redirect cell phone towers to insure 911 calls are going to the Southeast 911 Center in Beatrice.

In addition, on January 28, Chief Lang sent a letter to Falls City Police Chief Jamie Baker noting he wanted to dispel some of the information being published and talked about concerning 911 Communications in Richardson County and the Falls City Police Department.

Lang noted that since August of 2021, Southeast 911 Center has worked with communications center personnel from the Falls City Police Department as various calls have overlapped into both Centers.. Lang said the working relationship between the two Public Service Answering Points have been good, with both just trying to get the job done.

Lang said in the letter that he is comfortable with the working relationship between the Southeast Nebraska 911 Center and the Falls City Police Department.

(KLZA)-- Southeast Nebraska Community action ( SENCA), headquartered in Humboldt has received $25 thousand from Healthy Blue to address the many social drivers that impact health.

The funding commitment from Healthy Blue will be used to support and maintain several existing SENCA programs and initiatives for low-income and vulnerable individuals across southeast Nebraska.

The funds will allow SENCA to fulfill their mission to improve lives and build strong communities in southeast Nebraska. The funding will focus on providing community members with housing assistance through utility and rent payments, food support, childhood literacy, financial education as well as additional family services.

According to, “Driving Our Health: A study exploring health perceptions in America, nearly half of Americans are unaware of the concept of social drivers of health, external factors like nutritious foods, safe housing, and reliable transportation that play a key role in determining health outcomes.

SENCA currently provides services in Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson, Cass, Otoe and Sarpy counties in southeast Nebraska.

(KLZA)-- Southeast Nebraska Community action ( SENCA), headquartered in Humboldt has received $25 thousand from Healthy Blue to address the many social drivers that impact health.

The funding commitment from Healthy Blue will be used to support and maintain several existing SENCA programs and initiatives for low-income and vulnerable individuals across southeast Nebraska.

The funds will allow SENCA to fulfill their mission to improve lives and build strong communities in southeast Nebraska. The funding will focus on providing community members with housing assistance through utility and rent payments, food support, childhood literacy, financial education as well as additional family services.

According to, “Driving Our Health: A study exploring health perceptions in America, nearly half of Americans are unaware of the concept of social drivers of health, external factors like nutritious foods, safe housing, and reliable transportation that play a key role in determining health outcomes.

SENCA currently provides services in Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson, Cass, Otoe and Sarpy counties in southeast Nebraska.

(KLZA)-- Southeast Nebraska Community action ( SENCA), headquartered in Humboldt has received $25 thousand from Healthy Blue to address the many social drivers that impact health.

The funding commitment from Healthy Blue will be used to support and maintain several existing SENCA programs and initiatives for low-income and vulnerable individuals across southeast Nebraska.

The funds will allow SENCA to fulfill their mission to improve lives and build strong communities in southeast Nebraska. The funding will focus on providing community members with housing assistance through utility and rent payments, food support, childhood literacy, financial education as well as additional family services.

According to, “Driving Our Health: A study exploring health perceptions in America, nearly half of Americans are unaware of the concept of social drivers of health, external factors like nutritious foods, safe housing, and reliable transportation that play a key role in determining health outcomes.

SENCA currently provides services in Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson, Cass, Otoe and Sarpy counties in southeast Nebraska.

(KLZA)-- Southeast Nebraska Community action ( SENCA), headquartered in Humboldt has received $25 thousand from Healthy Blue to address the many social drivers that impact health.

The funding commitment from Healthy Blue will be used to support and maintain several existing SENCA programs and initiatives for low-income and vulnerable individuals across southeast Nebraska.

The funds will allow SENCA to fulfill their mission to improve lives and build strong communities in southeast Nebraska. The funding will focus on providing community members with housing assistance through utility and rent payments, food support, childhood literacy, financial education as well as additional family services.

According to, “Driving Our Health: A study exploring health perceptions in America, nearly half of Americans are unaware of the concept of social drivers of health, external factors like nutritious foods, safe housing, and reliable transportation that play a key role in determining health outcomes.

SENCA currently provides services in Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson, Cass, Otoe and Sarpy counties in southeast Nebraska.

(KNZA)--Two longtime southeast Nebraska sports broadcasters will be honored next month.

John Nixon and Randy Gottula, of Falls City radio stations KLZA and KTNC, have been selected as recipients of the 2022 Nebraska Interstate Athletic Administrators Association ( NSIAAA) Outstanding Service Award.

The pair were selected for the honor by their peers and athletic administrators across the state of Nebraska.

Gottula has broadcasted games for 50 years and Nixon for nearly 40 years in southeast Nebraska.

They will be honored during a banquet in Lincoln on March 6.

(KNZA)--A water outage is planned in the Brown County Community of Willis.

The outage is to begin at 9:00 Thursday morning ( February 10 ) and is expected to last up to 8 hours.

City officials say the outage is necessary in order to make repairs at the pump house.

Once water service has been restored, a boil advisory will be in place until further notice.

Customers are advised to boil the water they use for drinking or food preparation for one minute prior to use or use bottled water.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Kansas Corporation Commission has approved a settlement that will require customers of Kansas Gas Service to pay an estimated $5 to $7 a month for five to 10 years because of a deep freeze last February.

The added costs is the customers' share of $366 million in extra natural gas costs that spiked in February 2021.

It will be several months before customers see the added costs on their bills.

The costs come as Kansas Gas Service plans to issue bonds to spread the costs of last year's freeze to its 640,000 customers.

The exact cost per customer will depend on terms that the utility gets for the bonds. 

(KLZA) -- The Falls City Council voted unanimously Monday evening to approve a resolution to increase the city sales tax by one-half of a percent.

The resolution was reworded from the previously approved resolution. The question will go to the voters of Falls City to decide during the May primary election.

In other business the Council approved an ordinance to issue Bond Anticipation Notes in an amount not to exceed $4 millions to be used for upcoming utility upgrade projects.

Brad Slaughter with Piper-Sandler of Lincoln provided information on refunding 2017 Utility Revenue Bonds in an amount not to exceed $3.5 million. Option one would cut the annual payment the city is making to pay off the bonds by approximately $20 thousand annually with a net savings of approximately $300 thousand.

The second option would shorten the the payoff of the bonds by nearly a year. The savings with option two would be approximately $360 thousand.

The Council approved having Piper-Sandler prepare the necessary documents to refinance the bond but will not need to make a decision on which option to go with until closer to April which is the earliest time the bonds could be refinanced.

(KLZA)--Richardson County Clerk Mary Eickhoff has file for another four-year term.

Eickhoff filed recently on the Republican ticket for the position of County Clerk / Register of Deeds.

Incumbents must file for reelection by February 15 and non-incumbents by March 1 for the May, Primary election.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners have set March 1 as the deadline for groups in Richardson County to submit applications to receive American Rescue Plan Act funds awarded to Richardson County.

After applications are received, they will go through a review process with ARPA Administrator Austin Duerfeldt and then presented to the County Board for their review which will include an allocated time period for public comment during a regular meeting of the Board.

Following this process, should funds still be available, another grant application process will be established.

(KNZA)--Customers entering the Brown County Courthouse will no longer be required to have their temperature checked.

The Brown County Commission voted unanimously Monday to remove the requirement.

Commissioner Bill Pollock has pushed to have the requirement discontinued.

The temperature scanner will remain in place at the front entrance for customers who would like to voluntarily check their temperature.

Brown County has seen a decrease in COVID-19 cases over the past several weeks.

In other business, Duke Koerperich, owner/operator of Town and County EMS, met with the commission to discuss the replacement of one of his ambulances.

Koerperich said the cost of the new ambulance will be $82,528, with a delivery date of June or July.

Koerperich will keep the current box and move it to the new chassis.

Commissioners voted to have the county clerk solicit financing proposals from local banks for the purchase of the new ambulance.

(KNZA)--A boil advisory has been issued for the Lakeside Village Improvement District in Jefferson County.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued the advisory Monday due to a line break resulting in loss of pressure. KDHE says failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Customers are advised to boil the water they use for drinking or food preparation for one minute prior to use or use botted water.

The boil advisory will remain in place until further notice.

(KMZA)--Improvements are planned at the Jaycee ball field in Seneca.

The Seneca City Council, during their February 2 regular meeting, approved a bid from AmeriFence Corporation for the installation of a new six foot tall fence and a new backstop for a total cost of $47,610.  It was among two bids received.

The fence at the ballfield was destroyed in December's wind storm.  Insurance proceeds will cover nearly $14,000 of the cost. 

The Council also approved a bid from Beacon Athletics for new bleachers in the amount of $15,616.  It was among two bids received.  The bleachers will be set on a concrete pad.

City Administrator Tami Haverkamp said the dugouts will also be getting a concrete surface and shade canopies will be added.

In other action, the Council approved an agreement with Wilson and Company for final design and bidding services for a project to rebuild the distribution system in the alley south of Main Street from 3rd to 11th Streets.

The Salina-based engineering firm will provide the services for a total cost of $37,900, with the final bid documents to be provided to the city within 190 days.  

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau held their annual meeting Monday evening at the Fisher Center.

A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of organization's annual awards, which are voted on by Chamber members.

Honored as " Business of the Year" was the dentist practice of Dr. Jordan Haedt.

The Hiawatha Community Foundation was recognized as the " Organization of the Year."

The " Volunteer of the Year" award went to Chris Diller.

Chamber President Katie Miller reviewed last year's Chamber activities and what's planned for this year.

Virginia Freeze with the Hiawatha Community Foundation was the guest speaker.

(KAIR)--The new City Manager for the City of Atchison has been chosen.

She is Amy Finch, the current City Administrator for Crookston, Minnesota.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, “the one-year contract hiring [of Finch] was approved at [Monday’s] City Commission meeting.”

She is expected to begin her duties on April 4.

Finch, who is originally from Ottawa, Kansas, is a graduate of Ottawa University and holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Wichita State University.

Finch, in the release, says it’s her “honor to serve as Atchison’s next City Manager and be part of the team that has achieved so much success and continued momentum,” adding that she is “happy to get back home to Kansas after spending some time in Minnesota.” Finch notes that she, and the City of Atchison, “will work hard to achieve a smooth transition and keep moving forward.”

Finch was one of two finalists for the City Manager’s position selected from a pool of 25. Also in the running for the seat was current Assistant Atchison City Manager, Joe Warren.

The position of Atchison City Manager became vacant with the resignation of Becky Berger in August of last year.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee City Council members were updated on a letter from insurance carrier LARM which stands for League Association of Risk Management, requesting the City pay back $22,685 when they met January 24.  

LARM paid the City more money for hail damage claims from June, 2020 that what the repairs cost.  

The LARM claims adjuster who looked at the damage in Pawnee City may have had the amounts a little high for this area.  

The City now has wind damage from the December 2021 storm and will need to get bids for the repair work.  

LARM is not actually an insurance company and they have their own claim adjusters.  City Clerk Tammy Curtis suggested that Cling Simmons with LARM could come to a Council meeting and explain how LARM is organized and answer the Council's questions. 

It was also revealed during the meeting that USDA Rural Development had provided Pawnee City with $46,500 in grant funding towards the purchase of the Sewer Jet Trailer.  The Jet Trailer has been paid for in full.  

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners awarded a bid in amount of $1,545,992 to Constructors Inc. to do 5.8 miles of overlay work on the blacktop south of Rulo when they met February 1.

The Board also approved a contract with Vogtscapes Inc. for the box culvert project south of Salem.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. discussed a proposed project to construct a new shop building in Rulo, for the equipment used for area county roads. Darveau also noted that plans are being made for the purchase of a motor grader through a state bid pricing contract.

During the meeting Commissioners opened sealed bids for the restoration of the retaining wall around the Courthouse on the east, south and west sides. The only bid submitted was from Brandon Schawang in amount of $145 thousand. The bid was awarded to Schawang with the work to begin in April and to be completed by July of this year.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is accused of threatening police officers who attempted to arrest him on unrelated court warrants.

44-year-old Jason Seager is facing charges for aggravated assault on a police officer, possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement, and District Court warrants for failure to appear.

Filling late Vice-Mayor's seat tops Atchison business Monday

Posted Monday, February 7th, 2022 10:44am

(KAIR)--The unexpected death of Atchison’s Vice-Mayor, and the steps needed to fill the vacancy, will be among the business of the Atchison City Commission Monday.

According to the agenda for the Commission meeting, the process for filling the seat left vacant by the January 23 death of Commissioner J. David Farris is the top matter of new business to come before the Commission today.

According to information included with the agenda, Farris was elected to a four-year term in December, 2019, and leaves “a lasting impression on the City of Atchison as an organization, and, more importantly, a lasting impression on generations of people in the Atchison community.”

In order to meet the timeline, laid out by the applicable city ordinance, “the City Commission will need to appoint someone to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner Farris at the February 22, 2022 Commission meeting.”

City staff plans to advertise the position, starting Tuesday, with those interested being asked to submit a letter of interest to the City Clerk by 5 pm Wednesday, February 16. Those letters will then be compiled and included in the packet for consideration at the February 22 meeting.

The unexpired term runs through December 4, 2023.

Farris, who previously served as City Attorney and City Prosecutor for over 25 years, was laid to rest during services held January 31.

According to a release from the City, other matters of today’s meeting will include a number of items that are part of the equipment replacement plan, a discussion about ARPA funds guidance, and a review of upcoming grant opportunities, among other matters.

The meeting begins at 4:30 at Atchison City Hall.

(KAIR)--A Lansing woman is going to prison following her sentencing last week in Leavenworth County District Court.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 49-year-old Becky Lynn Kelly, convicted for aggravated battery by a Leavenworth County jury December 14, was sentenced to 5-years in prison for the crime.

The release explains that Leavenworth Police were called to an apartment complex, on January 7, 2021, for a noise complaint, with a downstairs neighbor believing the upstairs neighbors were being too loud. A short time later, that neighbor heard a man yell that he’d been stabbed, with the neighbor again calling police.

When they arrived, police found the neighbor, and another, attending to a man found to have been stabbed 11 times with an additional two lacerations.

Police learned that Kelly had left the apartment, with the victim following after her before collapsing at the base of the stairs.

He suffered serious injuries, including two collapsed lungs, a punctured colon, and a puncture wound that went through his cheek and did not stop until it hit the victim’s tooth. The man survived.

Kelly, who was not located immediately, was arrested a few months later in connection with the stabbing.

(KNZA)--The number of active cases of COVID-19 decreased last week in Brown and Doniphan Counties.

The Brown County Office of Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments on Friday reported 26 active cases in the county, with three hospitalized.  That's down from 55 active cases on January 28 when five were hospitalized  

It marked the third week in a row cases have declined in the county.

The Health Department also reported one additional COVID-19 related death, bringing the total to 48 since the beginning of the pandemic.

Brown County has had 2,319 total positive coronavirus cases since the start of the pandemic.

In neighboring Doniphan County, the Health Department on Friday reported 69 active cases in the county. That's down from 114 active cases reported on January 28.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, Doniphan County has seen 2,101 total positive cases, with 29 virus-related deaths.

(KLZA)--Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts has announced the launch of the Nebraska Homeowner Assistance Fund.

Nebraska received $50 million from the federal government to create the program.  Funds will be allocated to Nebraska as part of the American Rescue Plant Act.

Subject to eligibility, assistance is available to Nebraska homeowners who has experienced pandemic-related financial hardships resulting in delinquent mortgage payments, unpaid property taxes or an inability to cover homeowner insurance premiums or other related homeownership costs 

To learn more about eligibility and to apply for assistance,  go online to NebraskaHAF.com.  Call center representatives will also be available to assist applicatnts Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Call the NHAF call center at 844-565-7146.

Those eligible may apply for three types of assistance.

Reinstatement Assistance: to eliminate or reduce past due payments and other delinquent expenses.

Mortgage payment assistance: which will provide full or partial assistance for eligible Nebraska homeowners who are unable to make full mortgage payments due to continuing financial hardship associated with the coronavirus pandemic.

Property Assistance:  funds may be provided to pay past due property taxes, homewowner insurance premiums, mortgage insurance premiums, flood insurance premiums, homeowner association fees or liens, condominium association fees, utility liens or common charges that threaten sustained ownership of the property. 

(KMZA)--Vermillion USD 380 has begun the search for a new superintendent for next school year.  

Current Superintendent Matt Rogers has announced his resignation effective at the end of the current school year for health reasons.

Rogers has lead the district since 2018.  

The district's school board is conducting its search for a replacement with the help from the Kansas Association of Schools Boards in Topeka.  

The Board is accepting applications until February 11, and then will decide who they want to interview.  

Interviews will be conducted the week of February 21st  

The board hopes to have a new superintendent hired by the end of this month.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education has begun working on a new bond issue proposal.  

The Board, in a January 31 special meeting, heard a presentation from Zack Snethen with HTK Architects and Tucker Peddicord with Lighthouse Construction Guidance.    

They reviewed the initially $36.7 million bond issue that was rejected by voters last November so the board could begin discussions on what revisions need to made to present a successful construction project to patrons.  

They suggested getting a facility committee together to begin preparing community meetings.  The committee will consist of board members, administrators and a few other members to be determined.  

The consensus of the board was to have Snethen and Peddicord work on a new project plan that would include adding one or two more classrooms for a total of 9-10 new classrooms and renovation or rebuild of the CTE/shop building.  

The plan will not include a new gymnasium or a theatre, but will include the option to build them in the future.  

The board agreed  to have a special board meeting toward the end of the month for Snethen and Peddicord to present the revised plan.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee City Council member Ric Helms reported during the January 24 City Council meeting on proposed street work to be done by Pavers Inc.

The cost for the repair work will amount to nearly $108 thousand and will be paid out of the Fiscal Year 2021/22 and 2022/23 budgets.

The work will be completed in several stages, saving the City money.

There are approximately six sites that will receive patchwork on heavily traveled areas. After the patchwork is completed, then overlay work on those areas will be done in two to three years.

It was noted that laid down asphalt now costs $1300 per ton while just six years ago it was $54 per ton.

In a related item, the Council approved the expense of approximately $2,150 to purchase a concrete power screed to allow the city crew to complete some of the patchwork at a cost of approximately $110 per yard. The cost will be split between the Street, Water and Sewer budgets.

(KLZA)-- In a letter addressed to Richardson County Commission Chairman David Sickel, Beatrice Police Chief Bruce Lang proposed a termination agreement to the dispatching contract Richardson County entered into  in 2021.

In the letter Lang says in an effort to reduce the consternation the agreement has caused everyone, the Southeast Nebraska 911 Center in Beatrice would be willing to terminate the contract for $360 thousand, minus the amount Richardson County has paid which is currently $90 thousand resulting in a buyout amount of $270 thousand.

In addition, Lang asks that both parties agree that no disparaging comments be made about any of the involved parties.

Richardson County sent a letter dated December 4, seeking to terminate the agreement.

At one point all of the rural fire and rescue agencies in Richardson County reported they were looking forward to the new service and no longer receiving pages from the Falls City Police Department.

The letter says SE Nebraska 911 has been unable to receive any cooperation from the Falls City Police Department or Sheriff Hardesty to redirect cell phone towers to insure 911 calls go to the Southeast 911 Center.  

Southeast Nebraska 911 Center has incurred various expenses and has been ready to provide dispatch services since the beginning of the contract. The letter says the fact the Richardson County Sheriff's Office and rural Fire and Rescue agencies choose not to utilize the services offered in the contract does not negate the contract.  

Richardson County Commissioners discussed the content of the letter during their February 1, meeting.  Commissioners will review the letter further during their February 8 meeting.

(KLZA)-- An Omaha woman is facing three felony charges for drug possession following a traffic stop Tuesday morning in Richardson County.

About 9:00 A.M, Brittney King was stopped for a traffic violation.  A probable cause search was conducted.  During the search of the vehicle Deputies located alleged amounts of methamphetamine,  Xanax and concentrated THC.  Open containers of alcohol and other drug paraphernalia were also located.

King was arrested on felony charges of possession of methamphetamine,  Xanax and concentrated THC  in addition to charges of driving under suspension,  no insurance,  no valid registration, possession of drug paraphernalia and having an open container of alcohol. 

(KAIR)--Four Atchison house fires in 24-hours have kept Atchison fire crews working to battle the flames in the extreme cold blanketing the local area.

According to Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, the cause of each fire remains under investigation.

The first two occurred during the noon hour Thursday, when the fire that began at 1418 Kansas Avenue spread to the 1420 Kansas Avenue residence to the west.

The first home was occupied, with all of the residents able to escape safely. The second home was unoccupied.

The third fire occurred shortly before 3:00 Friday morning, at 921 North 6th Street, where the residents were found to have safely made it outside.

According to Weishaar, “firefighters found fire in the attic that had burned through the ceiling to a hallway on the second floor,” and “were able to quickly extinguish the fire in the bedroom and the area of origin in the attic.”

The family was awakened by a smoke detector which alerted them to the fire, allowing them to call 911 and escape. Weishaar notes that fire department personnel was on the scene within 3 minutes of receiving the report, which allowed them to make sure that all five of the occupants were safely out of the house and “to save the building and contents.”

Smoke and water damage have left the family displaced temporarily.

They, like the first affected family Thursday afternoon, were provided assistance by the Atchison Salvation Army, which also provided support to first responders.

The fourth fire happened later Friday morning, around 8:30, at 833 Mound Street, where firefighters “found the rear of a single-story house, engulfed in flames.”

Weishaar, in a release, says “crews were able to make their way inside to battle the fire but had to be called back out due to the rapid deterioration of the structure,” with the crews switching “to a defensive mode, fighting the fire from outside.”

No one was at home at the time of the fire, with Weishaar adding that “it was reported that a family pet was also able to escape and was found safe.”

The Salvation Army again provided support.

No injuries are reported in any of the four fires.

Also assisting throughout the firefighting efforts were the Atchison Police Department, Atchison County EMS, and Atchison County Emergency Management.

(KLZA)-- Five people were arrested in Falls City Wednesday following the execution of a search warrant at 1520 McLean Street. 

Richardson County Deputies conducted the search and located approximately 10 grams of suspected methamphtamine and drug paraphernalia.

Arrested were Michael Dean on two counts of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Wanda Parrish on two counts of possession of methamphetamine, possession of tramadol, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

April Feighner and Tonya Miller were charged with possession of methamphetamine and Jesse Rosenberger is charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

(KNZA)--A jury trial has been set for a Soldier man facing a charge of attempted second-degree murder and three other felonies in connection with a domestic incident last September.  

46-year-old Ervin Mitchell pleaded not guilty last week in Jackson County District Court to the charge, along with charges of aggravated domestic battery, criminal restraint and criminal threat.

 A three-day jury trial was set, beginning August 30.

 Mitchell was arrested September 16 of last year after Jackson County Sheriff's deputies responded to a domestic disturbance call. When they arrived, deputies found a woman who said she had been strangled during the disturbance.  

Mitchell left the scene of the incident, and was arrested after deputies deployed stop sticks to disable the vehicle he was driving.  

He remains in the Jackson County Jail, held on a $250,000 bond.

(KNZA)--Three local businesses have been awarded grants from USDA Rural Development to help expand and diversify their products.

The grants were announced in a news release from the agency Wednesday.

Diamond C Food Service, in Atchison, was awarded a $250,000 grant. It will be used to expand their beef and pork processing facility, diversify into new markets and increase sales. Working capital funds will also be used for supplies, wages, utilities and advertising. The project will create five jobs.

Z & M Twisted Vines Wines and Winery, in Leavenworth, was awarded a $250,000 grant. The funding will be used to expand their hard cider product. Working capital funds will be used for staffing, marketing and supplies.

The Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska was awarded a nearly $250,000 grant. It will be used to expand their cryo packaged beef product line, diversify into new markets and increase sales. Working capital funds will be used for processing supplies, marketing and outreach, sales support, licensing, project management, e-commerce enhancement and raw commodity supplement. 2 ½ jobs will be created as a result of the project.

In all, USDA Rural Development is investing nearly $2.8 million in grant funding to help rural businesses in 12 Kansas communities.

(KAIR)--An Atchison residential fire early Thursday afternoon spread to a nearby residence, with firefighters battling the blaze in 15 degree temperatures.
Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, in a release, says the Atchison Fire Department, at approximately 12:44, was “dispatched to 1418 Kansas Avenue for a report of a house on fire,” and when the crews arrived, “they found the rear of the two story, residential structure, on fire. Fire had also spread to the adjacent home just to the west,” listed as 1420 Kansas Avenue.

According to Weishaar, “crews were able to quickly bring both fires under control.”

The 1418 Kansas Avenue home was occupied at the time of the fire, and Weishaar says “all residents were able to make it out safely. The adjacent home was unoccupied and vacant with no utilities.

No injuries are reported.

The Atchison Salvation Army was on the scene offering support to both the affected residents as well as first responders, which also included the Atchison Police Department, Atchison County EMS, and Atchison County Emergency Management.

According to Weishaar, fire department investigators remained on the scene Thursday afternoon “to determine the cause and origin.”

The investigation is continuing.

(KAIR)--Three Atchison County-based schools are among others in the local area identified by state health officials as cluster sites of the coronavirus.

According to information released Wednesday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas currently has 387 active cluster sites, with six in the local area.

Cluster sites are those identified by KDHE as those that have five or more COVID-19 cases with symptom onset dates in the last 14-days.

According to the agency’s statistics, Atchison Elementary School, Atchison High School, Atchison County USD 377, Nemaha Central Elementary/Middle School, Sabetha Elementary School, and the Wetmore Academic Center all fall into the cluster site criteria.

Meanwhile, following an inquiry made by MSC News, the Atchison County office of the Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments has clarified why local coronavirus figures are no longer being posted by the office.

According to a release posted to the health department’s social media Thursday, "KDHE has taken over ALL of Atchison counties COVID-19 cases, adding that "the [local] Health Department will be focusing on testing, vaccinations, and providing [its] normal services."

The release includes an online link that connects to the state health agency's statistics, and says "the [local] health department will NOT be posting statistics (numbers) as these cases go directly to the state."

(KAIR)--An Atchison Firefighter, and an Atchison County Sheriff’s Deputy, earn recognition from a local service organization.

Atchison Firefighter Aaron Scott is named Atchison VFW Auxiliary Post #1175 Firefighter of the Year.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, Scott is a second-generation firefighter, with his father, Larry Scott, having served 26-years with the Atchison Fire Department before retiring and becoming an inspector for the Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office.

The younger Scott was hired in 2017 and has, according to the release, “been a very integral part of [the Atchison] department,” showing “professionalism for the job and care and compassion for everyone he encounters.”

The release notes that Scott holds certifications in Firefighter 1&2, Hazmat Awareness and Operations, and is a state certified EMT.

An Atchison County Sheriff’s Deputy, along with his K-9 partner, have earned the honor of being named the 2021-2022 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.

According to a release from the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office, the award was presented to Deputy David Worley and Ernie, his K-9, by Atchison VFW Post #1175.

The release explains that Worley began his career with the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office in 2008 as Corrections Officer. He later earned a Deputy position in 2013, and currently holds the rank of Corporal.

(KLZA)--Julie Bauman, CPA, of Falls City presented the Fiscal Year 2020-21 Audit to the Pawnee City Council during their January 24 meeting. 

Only one audit was required for the year and there were no adjustments to the financials. 

The audit showed the City's Cash Position to be really strong totaling $750,598.  The income statement showed the revenue and expenses for Total Net Position was $5,616,576.  The audit also showed a positive cash flow balance.  

There were no deficiencies noted in internal control that would be considered material weaknesses and there were no instances of noncompliance.  
 

(KAIR)--214 cases of COVID-19 persist in Jefferson County.

That word was delivered Monday to the Jefferson County Commission by Health Department Administrator Crystal VanHoutan.
She told the Commission, during the board’s regular weekly meeting, that the new cases were confirmed over a ten-day period, which ended Monday.

VanHoutan told Commissioners that the County’s percent-positivity rate stands at 29.05%.

Jefferson County has had a total of 4,527 coronavirus cases since the beginning of the pandemic. 148 have been hospitalized since that time, and 55 have died.

VanHoutan explained that, as of Monday, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment is investigating all coronavirus cases, and have ended contract tracing. VanHoutan clarified that the change means those individuals who test positive for COVID-19 should notify those they’ve had contact with.

(KAIR)--As of Thursday night, all Atchison Police Officers are equipped with body worn cameras.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, implementation of the wearing of the cameras comes “after several years of researching various options and studying relevant law, policies, and procedures.”

The release notes that use of the body cameras “follows months of planning and preparation as well as weeks of training with the Police Department.”

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in the release, cites the “many benefits” that body worn cameras bring,” saying they will enable the police department “to document police interactions with the public,” and “will provide video and audio evidence for prosecutors,” as well as “a resource for department supervisors to review officers’ conduct and activity.” Wilson also stated that “most importantly, they will enhance transparency and accountability, which our department welcomes. We’ve implemented this program in the right way and for the right reasons.”

The purchase of the cameras, for just under $50,000, was approved by the Atchison City Commission in September of last year, and was part of the City’s 2021 Equipment Replacement Plan.

(KAIR)--A woman, found guilty last year of the second degree murder of a teenage girl in Leavenworth, is going to prison.

Amber Alexander Wednesday was sentenced in Leavenworth County District Court to nearly 10-years of incarceration in connection with the August 7, 2021 death of 16-year-old Miranda Lynch, who was struck by Alexander’s Subaru Outback at Pottawattamie and 4th Streets, in Leavenworth. Alexander was driving after leaving a Lansing bar around 2:00 that morning.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Alexander was found guilty by a Leavenworth County Jury on December 30 last year of second degree murder, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in injury or death, and interference with law enforcement-tampering with evidence.

Alexander, following the deadly hit and run, reported in an insurance claim that her Subaru had been involved in an accident in her apartment parking lot during the night, which lead to front-end damage. Thompson’s release notes that “later the same day she drove her Subaru off the road into a wooded area causing more front-end damage and she made a second insurance claim. The State alleged the actions were an attempt to hide the front-end damage to her vehicle from striking and killing Lynch.  Leavenworth Police Department was able to trace the vehicle to Alexander due to vehicle parts left at the scene of the fatal hit and run.”

Alexander’s 9-year-nine-month prison sentence was lower than the State’s request made at sentencing that she spend 13-years-10-months behind bars.

(KMZA)-- A new Nemaha County Senior Services and Public Transit director has been hired.

Nemaha County Commission Chairman Dylan Keim announced at Monday's county commission meeting that Tammy Epple, of rural Sabetha, has accepted the position.  

She currently serves as executive director of the Sac and Fox Nation Housing Authority, in Reserve.  

Epple will begin work February 21 at an annual salary of $45,081.  

Marie Weaver has been serving as interim director since the resignation of Diane Yunghans on December 17. Yunghans had held the position since May 2013.

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — A jury has acquitted a 25-year-old man in the shooting death of his half-brother.

Cody Huninghake, of rural Leavenworth, was charged with first-degree murder in the death of 17-year-old Robert Nelson.

A Leavenworth County jury found him not guilty on Tuesday. Nelson was shot in the head July 3 at the family's home.

Huninghake testified that he shot Smith accidentally when a shotgun went off as he lost his balance and fell against a wall.

Huninghake was released from the Leavenworth County Jail after the verdict was announced. 

(KLZA)-- The amount of positive tests for COVID-19 in the past two weeks increased slightly from the previous two-week period at Community Medical Center in Falls City.

January 18 through February 1 there were 428 tests conducted with 35.3 percent, or 151 of them coming back positive.  During the  prior reporting period the percentage of positive tests was 34.8 percent. 

For the week of February 25 through February 1 there were 159 tests conducted with 70 positive results which is 30.2 percent.  

On Monday there were 33 COVID-19 test results with 32.4 percent coming back positive.   

(KAIR)--Several unrelated thefts, adding up to thousands of dollars in losses, are under investigation by the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, one of the three thefts was focused on irrigation equipment, with an Atchison resident, on January 25, reporting “that [an] irrigation pivot had wires cut from it,” and “at least three control boxes that had the wires cut from them.”

The crime occurred at 310th Road and Kansas Highway 7, on the west side of the road.

According to Laurie, the value is believed to be in the $2,000 to $3,000 range.

Another of the three thefts involves a log splitter, reported stolen from the yard of the Muscotah owner’s residence.

No suspects are immediately known and the investigation continues.

The loss is estimated at $1,000.

The third theft, that of lumber, is also under investigation.

Laurie, in the release, says it was reported to his office that about 200 pieces of 2x4 lumber was stolen sometime between January 29 and January 30.

The cost of the loss is not immediately stated.

Suspects are being sought in the crime.

Anyone with information related to the thefts should provide any information to 913-367-4323.

(KMZA)--A Sabetha area native has been hired as the new superintendent of Wamego USD 320.

In a release, the USD 320 Board of Education announced Monday that Rob McKim as their choice to be the district's next superintendent.

McKim has 28 years of educational experience. He currently serves as principal of Lansing High School, where he has worked since 2018.

McKim was among four candidates interviewed by the board last week.

The Board said they were impressed with his innovative ideas, his ability to utilize data but most importantly his understanding and expectations around the engagement of students and parents in the education process.

McKim will take over the reins as superintendent of USD 320 on July 1st.

Greg Mann is currently serving as interim superintendent following Tim Winter's resignation last spring. 

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works has approved a one-half percent increase in electrical rates for BPW customers for 2022. 

BPW General Manager Dave Hunter said the increase is needed due to increased costs in supplies and shipping surcharges being implemented by vendors.  

The rate will be in effect as of  February 23. 

This is the first increase in electrical rates for Auburn BPW customers since 2015.   

Customers water fees will be increasing five percent.  That increase was approved following last year's water rate study.  

In other business during the Boards January meeting, a quote from Layne Western out of Valley to drill three test holes and complete pumping to locate a viable well was approved at a cost of $23,614. The lat time a new well was installed was in 2003.  

(KAIR)--Several unrelated thefts, adding up to thousands of dollars in losses, are under investigation by the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office.

 According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, one of the three thefts was focused on irrigation equipment, with an Atchison resident, on January 25, reporting “that [an] irrigation pivot had wires cut from it,” and “at least three control boxes that had the wires cut from them.”  The crime occurred at 310th Road and Kansas Highway 7, on the west side of the road.  According to Laurie, the value is believed to be in the $2,000 to $3,000 range.  

Another of the three thefts involves a log splitter, reported stolen from the yard of the Muscotah owner’s residence.  No suspects are immediately known and the investigation continues.  The loss is estimated at $1,000.  

The third theft, that of lumber, is also under investigation.  Laurie, in the release, says it was reported to his office that about 200 pieces of 2x4 lumber was stolen sometime between January 29 and January 30.  The cost of the loss is not immediately stated.  Suspects are being sought in the crime.  

Anyone with information related to the thefts should provide any information to 913-367-4323.

(KNZA)--A motorcyclist died from injuries received in a Sunday afternoon two-vehicle wreck in St. Joseph, Missouri.

Police said it happened at the intersection of North Belt Highway and Northridge Drive around 4 o'clock.

KQ-2 TV reports 20-year-old Chaz Newman, of St. Joseph, was northbound when he T-boned an SUV that turned in front of him.

Newman was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, where he later died.

The driver of the SUV was not hurt.

The fatal crash remains under investigation.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has approved bids for several highway improvement projects.

In Brown County, Dustrol Inc., of Towanda, was awarded the bid for the recyle and overlay of a 12 mile stretch of U.S. 36 Highway from the Brown/Nemaha County line to 1.7 miles west of the west city limits of Hiawatha in the amount of $1.4 million.

Bids were approved from Herzog Contracting Corporation, of St. Joseph, Missouri, for three projects in Jefferson County.

They include the milling and overlay of a nearly 8 mile-stretch of K-192 from the junction with U.S. 59 to the Jefferson/Leavenworth County line in the amount of nearly $1.2 million.

Milling and overlay of an about 18-mile stretch of K-4 from the junction with K-92 north to the junction with U.S. 59 in the amount of nearly $4.5 million.

And milling and overlay of a .5 tenths of mile stretch of U.S. 59 from the junction with K-4 to the Jefferson/Atchison County line in the amount of $305,000.

The bid letting took place January 19 in Topeka.

Construction start dates haven't been announced yet.

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — Two former correctional officers at the Leavenworth Detention Center have pleaded guilty to conspiring to smuggle drugs and other contraband into the privately run federal prison.

The Kansas City Star reports that 28-year-old Willie Golden, of Overland Park, and 36-year-old Janna Grier, of Horton, entered the pleas last week.

Prosecutors said prisoners used an online app to pay bribes to corrections officers to smuggle in tobacco, marijuana and cell phones to prisoners from April through November 2020.

During his time as a correctional officer, Golden allegedly received $7,370 for smuggling contraband, according to court documents.

In a plea agreement, Grier admitted to smuggling tobacco and what she later learned was synthetic cannabinoids into the detention center.

Golden is scheduled to be sentenced on May 17 and Grier on April 28. Both face up to five years in prison.