(KNZA)--The boil water advisory issued for the city of White Cloud in Doniphan County has been rescinded.

That word came Friday from City Clerk Anne Olson after water samples sent to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment showed no evidence of bacteriological contamination.

The boil advisory was issued Tuesday as a precautionary measure due to a loss of water pressure.

(KNZA)--Troy High School has been awarded grant funds for a beautification project.

According to a release from the Mosaic Life Care Foundation, Troy High School seniors Abby Parks and Griffin Weber, along with Troy educator Jeremy Prudden, have received a more than $4,400 Jump Starter grant from the Foundation.

The release says the project will enhance the look of the high school and increase school pride.

The students said the beautification will bring the community together and will be something that everyone will notice.

Through the project, the release says students will gain real-world volunteer experience, practice leadership, problem-solving, planning and time management.

The project is planned to be completed around June 1.

Competitive Jump Starter grants are available for up to $10,000 for student-led service-learning projects in communities throughout northwest Missouri and surrounding counties in Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. Since 2007, the Mosaic Life Care Foundation has awarded 63 Jump Starter grants totaling over $350,000.  

(KLZA)-- The deadline to apply for the Missouri Century Farm Program is Sunday, May 1.

To qualify, the same family must have owned the farm for 100 consecutive years. There must be at least 40 acres, of the original land acquisition and make a financial contribution to the overall farm income.

To apply, go online to extension.missouri.edu/centuryfarm.

If you have questions you may contact a county extension center.

The program is sponsored by the University of Missouri Extension, the MU College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources, and Missouri Farm Bureau.

A fee covered the cost of a certificate and metal farm sign and booklet for approved applicants.

Since th inception of the Missouri Century Farm Program in 1976, more than 8 thousand Missouri farms have received the Century Farm designation.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas is moving to phase out the nation’s second-highest state sales tax on groceries, but Republican lawmakers wouldn't have the state lower consumers’ bills until after Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly faces reelection in November.

The House voted 114-3 on Thursday to approve the GOP's tax-cut proposal after the Senate voted 39-0 Wednesday to pass it.

Eliminating the 6.5% tax is Kelly’s most visible legislative initiative this year. She and fellow Democrats have been waging a public campaign for weeks to get the GOP-controlled Legislature to eliminate the whole tax on July 1.

The Republican plan would phase out the tax over three years, dropping it to 4% in January, 2023. In January 2024, the rate will reduce to 2 percent and be completely eliminated beginning in January 2025.

Kelly said she will sign the bill.

(KNZA)--Plans for the construction of a multi-purpose community center at Banner Creek Reservoir, west of Holton, move forward.  

Banner Creek Reservoir Director Kurt Zibell and Jackson County Commissioners recently agreed to accept bids from general contractors for construction of the 42-by 60-foot building until 4:30 p.m on May 20.  Contractors  can submit their sealed bids to the Jackson County Clerk's Office.  

The bids will be opened at the Jackson County Commission's May 23 meeting.  

The Friends of Banner Creek Reservoir was awarded a $160,000 state grant last October  to help build the facility.  The organization raised a similar amount in matching funds.  

The building is to include a kitchen, gathering area for 125-150 people, restrooms and a basement, which will be a designated storm shelter.

(KNZA)--An Ozawkie woman was arrested on drugs charges following a traffic stop early Thursday morning in Shawnee County.

According to a release from the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Mercury Sable around midnight at Northwest Tyler and Northwest St. John Streets for failure to stop when leaving a private drive.

During the investigation, the release says illegal drugs were located.

42-year-old Sonya Tavis was arrested and booked into the the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the charges of possession of methamphetamine, interference with a law enforcement officer, possession of drug paraphernalia, and trafficking contraband into a correctional facility.  

The incident remains under investigation.

(KNZA)--A Mayetta man was injured in a single-vehicle rollover crash early Thursday morning on U.S. 75 Highway, just north of Topeka.

The Shawnee County Sheriff's Office said it happened shortly before 6:30, just north of Northwest 70th Street.  

The Sheriff's Office said 56-year-old Jonathan Seeley was northbound when his Ford Explorer left the roadway to the right.  As the vehicle crossed Northwest 70th Street it became airborne and rolled multiple times down a steep grassy slope.

Seeley was transported by ambulance to a Topeka hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.

(KAIR)--A former Missouri resident, and former Kansas volleyball coach, is going to prison in connection with child-related sex crimes.

27-year-old Levison Gibson, former coach at the Kansas City, Kansas Dynasty Volleyball Academy was sentenced in Leavenworth County District Court to 2-years-8-months of incarceration on one count of sexual exploitation of a child.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, the current Indianapolis, Indiana resident entered a plea of guilty as charged in February.

According to the release, Gibson solicited pictures of a 15-year-old female volleyball player through Snapchat.

Interviewed by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation in July, 2021, Gibson “admitted to requesting and receiving photos” of the girl, including those of a sexual nature, “after a course of multiple conversations with the young girl” on the social media platform.

(LINCOLN, NEB.)  — Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested an employee of the Beatrice State Development Center (BSDC) following an investigation into an incident that occurred in 2021.

In October 2021, NSP was informed of an incident involving a BSDC patient and a staff member.

Following investigation, with assistance of the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab, Allen Evans, 30, of Beatrice, was arrested for first degree sexual assault and tampering with evidence.

Evans was arrested Tuesday afternoon and lodged in Gage County Jail.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works heard an update during their April meeting on three test holes drilled as potential sites for water well #14.

The tests indicated that one of the sites would potentially be a good site for a well test. The Board approved drilling a test well at an estimated cost of $16,715.

The Board also approved a request form General Manager Dave Hunter to replace Wellhouse #11 at a cost of $3,450 for a foundation and $4,526 for the new building.

Hunter was also given permission to seek potential funding opportunities for a sewer line, lining project.

Also approved was a proposal form Olsson to conduct an ARC Flash Study at a proposed cost of $29,700. In March, an Engineering company had estimated the cost of the study at $49 thousand.

Hunter also updated the Board on material shortages. He said materials with an estimated delivery date of eight to ten weeks out are now estimated at eight to ten months with no guarantees. Meter sockets are now estimated to take up to 60 weeks for delivery.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriffs office will be participating in the National Drug Take Back event Saturday, April 30th.

The event will take place at the sheriffs office in Hiawatha from 10-2.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant says the Sheriff's Office has been part of the national event for many years. He said hundreds of pounds of unwanted, unused or expired medications have been collected at the Sheriff's office and then turned over to the DEA for disposal.  

Merchant said they also collect medications year round, 24 hours a day.  

He said the event provides citizens an effective way to dispose of medication they no longer need or use.

Injectables and needles are not accepted.

(KAIR)--The Atchison Area Community Foundation is proud to announce Gregory Booker, Maddison Bowen, Kaleb Kelley-Jones, and Ethan Matthias as the recipients of the 2022 Kasten-Regan Memorial Scholarship.

The Kasten-Regan Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the late Gene and Connie Kasten and the late Vince and Phyllis Regan and to benefit a graduating Atchison High School student that has demonstrated extraordinary work ethic by holding a part time job during their high school years. Students can use the scholarship funds toward a higher education purpose of their choosing.

Equipped with a $3,000 scholarship, Gregory Booker will attend Kansas City Kansas Community College and intends to study Chemical Engineering, Microbiology, and Biology Sciences. During his high school career, Gregory held part time jobs at JR’s Lawncare, Chick-fil-A, and Walmart.

Maddison Bowen will attend Missouri Western State University with the help of a $1,000 scholarship where she intends to study Business Administration and Human Resources. Maddison has worked at O’Malley’s Restaurant and Daylight Donuts as a server, kitchen help, and hostess.

Kaleb Kelley-Jones will take his $1,000 scholarship to Hutchinson Community College where he intends to study Pre-Veterinary Medicine. Kaleb has worked for the Atchison Recreation Commission and as a dog walker at Cedar Ridge Veterinarian Clinic.

A $2,000 scholarship will help Ethan Matthias attend Washburn University where he intends to study Forensic Science. Ethan has part time jobs as a cameraman at the NAIA basketball tournament, as a scorekeeper for the Atchison Recreation Commission, and as kitchen help at Lopez De Mexico.

“Our family is passionate about helping students who have demonstrated exceptional work ethic to achieve their higher education goals,” said Sue Regan, a representative of the Kasten-Regan family. “These four young people are very deserving and it’s an honor to help them pursue their dreams.”

Since May of 2020, the Kasten-Regan Memorial Scholarship has awarded a total of $17,000 to ten deserving recipients pursuing higher education goals. It is Tim & Sue Regan's hope that each recipient of this scholarship will find it in their hearts to "pay it forward" to another deserving individual from Atchison in the future.

In 2019 the Atchison Area Community Foundation was established to enrich the lives of the people in our community through philanthropy. We are a source of funding for local nonprofits and public entities. We are committed to building philanthropy and connecting people who care with causes that matter.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man is going to prison for the 2021 shooting death of another man.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 22-year-old Cordell Stewart was sentenced in Leavenworth County District Court to 9-years-9-months incarceration for second-degree murder in the death of Floyd Ross, Jr.

According to Thompson, District Court Judge Gerald Kuckelman determined that Stewart had the lowest criminal history with none or one misdemeanor, with the Kansas Sentencing Guidelines used to make the sentencing decision.

Stewart pled to shooting Ross at least twice on March 24 in Leavenworth County District Court.

The release explains that the Leavenworth Police Department was able to retrieve video of Ross from the fatal evening of May 4, 2021, with the surveillance video capturing Ross and another man, later determined to be Stewart, in the area of the 400 block of Leavenworth’s Kiowa Street. The video captured muzzle flashes, Ross dropping to the ground, and Stewart running east on Kiowa Street.

During Stewart’s sentencing, the father and sisters of Ross spoke, asking for the maximum amount of time.

According to Thompson, the resolution of the case came through the permission of the family.

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas exported $5.35 billion in agricultural goods in 2021. This is the first time that Kansas agriculture exports exceeded $5.0 billion in at least a decade. Those exports were also $1.30 billion, or 32.35%, more than 2020.

“Kansans have long-known that farmers, ranchers, and agriculture producers are vital to our state’s economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Kansas is a national leader in agriculture, and setting these records solidifies the important role the state also has on a global scale.”

The top export for Kansas in 2021 was meat, which made up $2.06 billion, or 54.07%, of all agriculture exports. The second was cereals making up $1.51 billion, or 39.75%, of total agriculture exports in 2021. Other products exported include oilseed, vinegar, beverages, dairy products, milling products, fats, vegetables, flour, and starch, among other products. 

Even though supply chain issues impacted many industries, Kansas exported agricultural products to 187 foreign markets in 2021. Mexico, Japan, and China were the top three countries to purchase Kansas agricultural goods. Mexico purchased $1.91 billion, or 44.33%, of all agriculture exports. Japan followed by purchasing $822.78 million, or 19.90%, of all Kansas agriculture exports. China was third with $701.30 million, or 16.96%, purchased. South Korea, Taiwan, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Brazil were other countries in the top ten.

“Through the work of Kansas farmers, ranchers, other agriculture producers, and ag and food processors, in partnership with our Division of Agricultural Marketing, Kansas leads in agriculture,” Agriculture Secretary Mike Beam said. 

Find the full report here.

(KAIR)--Two inmates of the Atchison County Jail are facing charges related to battering corrections officers in two separate cases.

A release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie places the date of the first incident as March 22, when 35-year-old Anthony Barnhart “was [allegedly] involved in a battery against a corrections officer in the Atchison County Jail.”

According to the release, a warrant was issued for Barnhart charging him with felony battery against a law enforcement officer, resulting in a bond of $50,000 for the crime.

Barnhart remains jailed, and has been since early November of last year, held for unrelated charges.

The second case involved 58-year-old Porter Webb who allegedly “was involved in a battery against a corrections officer in the Atchison County Jail” on April 14.

According to Laurie’s release, “reports were sent to the County Attorney for review which resulted in a warrant being issued” for Webb on April 19.

Webb was charged with felony battery against a law enforcement officer, which led to a bond of $50,000 for the charge.

Webb remains in the jail where Laurie says he’s been held since mid-August of last year on unrelated charges.

According to Laurie, the corrections officer suffered no injuries.

(KNZA)- A boil water advisory has been issued for the city of White Cloud in Doniphan County.

The advisory was issued Tuesday as a precautionary measure.

According to the city's Facebook page, they was notified late Tuesday afternoon that many residents were experiencing low water pressure. City officials say the problem occurred due to water storage tanks being too low.

Customers are advised to boil the water they use for drinking and food preparation for three minutes prior to use or to use bottled water.

The advisory will remain in place until further notice.

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Under a boil water advisory, it is RECOMMENDED that customers follow these guidelines:

• Boil all drinking water. Tap water should be boiled vigorously for three minutes before using it to drink, cook, or prepare food. Let the water cool sufficiently before drinking.

• Ice made with un-boiled tap water should not be used for drinking purposes.

• Dishes and food contact surfaces may be disinfected using tap water that contains one teaspoon of household bleach per gallon.

• The tap water is safe for other purposes such as bathing; however, small children should be discouraged from swallowing bath water.

• Water boiled for drinking and cooking purposes may be used for brushing teeth.

(KNZA)--Strong words, directed at the Hiawatha City Commission regarding the controversial termination of former Hiawatha Police Chief John Defore, were heard during Monday's meeting of the Commission.

The comments delivered by Amiee Defore follow an extensive investigation by the Brown County Attorney's Office, made public in March, which found that Commissioners Evan Woehlecke and Brian Shefferd, along with Mayor Bill Collins, violated the Kansas Open Meetings Act when they voted to terminate Defore without warning in December.

Amiee Defore called the firing “illegal” and criticized the motivations and fact-gathering of the three members found guilty of the violation, calling their actions “a disgrace to the city of Hiawatha.”

Defore also refuted the crime statistics that were shared by Commissioner Brian Shefferd at a March meeting of the Commission, saying the website they were taken from was inaccurate and not comprehensive.

Prior to Defore’s comments, the Commission heard from Richard Tesoriero, who revisited his concerns regarding the more than $4 million streets improvement project that he first shared last July.

Tesoriero said he was seeking an update on where the project stood at, adding he didn't feel residents were getting answers from the city.

Mayor Bill Collins said the project hasn't been closed out, adding that everything has been turned over to the city attorney.

Commissioner Becky Shamburg said without the city attorney present, she didn't know what they are allowed to say, and suggested that Tesoriero submit a list of questions.

Tesoriero said the project is less than a year old and already pot holes have developed on Miami Street. In addition, he said he counted more than 120 cracks on a section of 12th Street, asserting his belief that the project should last 30 years.

(KMZA)--A new Nemaha County emergency preparedness director has been hired.

Nemaha County Commission Chairman Dylan Keim announced at Monday's Commission meeting that Eddie Aldrine has been hired for the position, effective June 1

He was interviewed by Commissioners during a special meeting last week.

Aldrine, who is originally from Seneca, currently lives in Kansas City and works in law enforcement.

Former County Emergency Preparedness Director Russel Lierz resigned, effective March 2.

Sheriff Rich Vernon has been serving as interim director since that time.

(KAIR)--A Tuesday evening shooting in southern Jackson County left one man hospitalized.

According to a release issued by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, it happened around 6:40 in the 9000 block of J. Road, with a man who lives at a residence there telling authorities that a neighbor came to his home “when a gunfight between the two men ensued.” The neighbor was injured, and taken to an area hospital for treatment.

His injuries were not believed to be life-threatening.

According to Morse, deputies and detectives continued processing the scene Tuesday night.

Anyone with information about what led up to the shooting are asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.

(KAIR)--The first case in Leavenworth County using a new state law that increases the penalties for fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thomson, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly last year signed the increase into law, making the crime a level seven person felony.

Thompson worked to pass the legislation, and last week put it to work in a Leavenworth County District Court courtroom.

That’s when 51-year-old Raheem Armstead was convicted of both aggravated battery and fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer.

The crimes he was convicted of happened in July, 2021 when a Leavenworth Police Officer spotted a suspicious vehicle driven by Armstead coming from what the release calls “a known drug house.”

Armstead, the release says, “engaged in reckless driving and law enforcement tried to pull the vehicle over.” Instead, Armstead fled, causing multiple vehicle accidents before trying to flee on foot after crashing the vehicle he was driving.

No one involved in the Armstead-caused crashes received more than minor injuries.

Thompson, in the release, says the harm that occurred in the case is the reason he fought for increased punishment for fleeing from officers.

(KAIR)--Kansas Dentist of the Year.

That’s the honor bestowed on Atchison’s Dr. Allen Reavis by the Kansas Dental Association during its Annual Meeting held April 22 in Kansas City, Missouri.

According to a release from the association, the honor was given by the KDA’s President, Dr. Jill Jenkins who calls Reavis “the well deserving recipient” of the award, adding that Reavis “is a passionate advocate for dentists of Kansas and organized dentistry in general.”

Reavis, a 38-year dentist in Atchison, has been active with the association since the start of his career, with the release saying he currently serves on the Council on Dental Legislation, Council on Finance and Budget, is a Kansas Delegate to the American Dental Association, and serves on the Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation Board, among other duties.

Closer to home, Reavis has served as an Atchison City Commissioner for more than 12-years, elected Mayor five terms, and now seeks a seat on the Atchison County Commission.

(KAIR)--The spring semester is in the final month’s stretch, with Atchison’s Benedictine College putting the finishing touches in the planning for its May 14 annual Commencement Exercises.

College President Stephen Minnis, during a co-host appearance on the 93.7 FM morning show, said the well known Commencement Speaker, set to receive an honorary degree, is creating excitement for the college. “Our Commencement Speaker, and honorary degree recipient, is Bishop Robert Barron. He’s an auxiliary Bishop in Los Angeles, and, in the Catholic World, probably well known for Word On Fire. He’s a very great communicator and does these amazing videos and he’s a very good homilist, and just very, very well known, so we’re excited about having him out.”

As part of the ceremonies, Patrick J. Reilly, founder and president of The Cardinal Newman Society, will receive an honorary degree from Benedictine College.

According to the college, Reilly has a son graduating from BC, and will be awarded an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

He has authored and edited numerous articles, reports, studies, and other publications on Catholic education for the Newman Society and national media, making appearances on EWTN, Fox News, MSNBC, and numerous radio programs.

(KLZA)--An attorney for Nebraska 1st District State Senator Julie Slama has announced that an answer and counterclaim have been filed intended to refute Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster's defamation lawsuit and claims damages for sexual battery.

On Friday, Herbster filed a lawsuit in Johnson County to “ restore his good name and reputation and to oppose the false claims made against him,” according to a news release.

Slama's attorney, Dave Lopez, released a statement Monday that said Herbster has stopped short of actually serving the lawsuit, and although it is defective in key aspects, Senator Slama filed an answer and counterclaim refuting Herbster's false allegations against her and claims damages for the sexual battery she suffered.

In the release, Lopez called Herbster's lawsuit a frivolous and bad faith attempt to bully a sexual assault victim into silence.

Slama's suit request judgement against Herbster for special damages to be stated at the final pretrial conference, general damages, prejudgement interest to the extent permitted by law, costs, including attorney's fees and for further relief as the Court deems appropriate.

The suit also demands a trial by jury for the case.

(KMZA)--A section of K-187 in Nemaha County has been closed for two bridge replacement projects.

Being replaced are the Weyer Creek and Nemaha River Drainage bridges, which are about three and six miles north of Centralia.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, K-187 will be closed to through traffic between U.S. 36 and K-9.  Motorists will be detoured to U.S. 36 and should add up to 10 minutes to their travel schedules.  

Work will take place Monday through Friday during daytime hours. Work began Monday and is to be completed in early November, weather permitting.

Reece Construction, of Salina, is the contractor on both projects, with a total cost of nearly $2.4 million.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Education approved a number of personnel changes when they met April 11.

The Board accepted the resignations of school psychologist Jordan Amundson, elementary music teacher Kourtney Martin.

New hires for the 2022-23 school year include Donna Dassel-stuke for a psychologist position, Jacob Craig as an elementary teacher, Brian Maher to work in alternative education, and Jacob Cover and Angie Bower, both secondary special education instructors.

Board member approved a contract with Educational Service Unit #4 for Core Services. For the current school year the cost to the Auburn School District was $207,244, but the fee for the next school year has not yet been determined.

The Board also set the rate for Summer School at $100 per student. The fee will be refunded in the course work is successfully completed.

The rate for the Drivers Education Class will be $39 for the AAA online class and $150 for the driving course.

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education reorganized for the next year when they met April 19.

Robert Gibson was elected President of the Board; Jeremy Lewis – Vice-President and Dylan Rosier – Treasurer. The Board also reappointed Lisa Loucks as Board Secretary.

During the meeting the 2022-23 Employee Health Care proposal to pay 100 percent of Employee Health Insurance at a cost of $778, per month for each teacher was approved. The coverage remains the same as the 2021-22 school year.

The Board also approved the salary proposal for the next year which increases the teacher base salary to $36,750.

Board members approved hiring Bailey Oliver as the ACES program Social Worker and Miriah Stricker as the ACES Behavior Interventionist.

Shelley Eaton was hired as the school Librarian for the 2022-23 school year while Mary Grace Thiltges was hired for the Special Education Position.

High School Principal Jake Shipman reported Mound City students ranked 3rd in the Conference on their ACT score. Mound City students averaged a score of 21.8 on the test with the National average being 20.8. There are 16 schools in the conference.

Shipman also reported that he has created an Academic Eligibility Committee to discuss areas of concern regarding students and the ability for them to participate in activities.

(KLZA)-- For the 34th consecutive year, the National Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Humboldt as a “ Tree City USA” community.

The City of Humboldt Tree Board invites the public to an Arbor Day celebration on Friday April 29th, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Southeast Nebraska Cancer Memorial Garden.

 The event will include Mayor Mendenhall reading the Arbor Day proclamation and the planting of a tree donated by Humboldt Fire Department and Humboldt Rescue in memory of Gary Lewis.

UNL Forester Steve Karloff will demonstrate proper tree planting and answer any arboriculture related questions.

HTRS 4th grade students will perform the Pledge of Allegiance and the HTRS Choir will provide music entertainment for the event.

Tree Board President Eugene Volker will present the Arbor Day art contest winners.

(KLZA)-- Persons wanting to vote in the upcoming Nebraska Primary Election, May 10, 2022, are urged to check their voter registration status to make certain they are registered at the correct address and affiliated with the political party for which they are going to cast their nomination ballot.

Voters may check their registration at www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov or by contacting the Richardson County Clerk’s Office at 402-245-2911.

Voter registration will be taken in person at the Office of the Richardson County Clerk during regular business hours through Monday, May 2 and on that day the office will remain open until 6:00 p.m. This is the deadline for registering to vote before the Primary Election.

Early voting applications are also available to request that your ballot be mailed to you if you are unable to vote at your regular polling place on Election Day.

An application form can be obtained on the Richardson County website: www.co.richardson.ne.us.

Please contact your County Clerk’s Office if you have further questions or need more information regarding the 2022 Elections. In Richardson County the number is

402-245-2911.

(KAIR)--Investments of more than $3 million dollars are made in eight Kansas communities, with the funds intended to “strengthen fire and flood protection, expand renewable energy resources and more.”

The largest amount of the funding is earmarked for use in Doniphan County.

That word comes from the United States Department of Agriculture, with Acting State Director for Rural Development Kansas, Dan Fischer, announcing the investments Friday, timed with Earth Day.

According to a release from USDA, a $2,917,200 grant will be used toward the construction of levee improvements for flood protection for the Doniphan County communities of Elwood and Wathena, as well as rural areas of the county.

The release explains that construction will address the issues of raising the levee, installing relief wells, making drainage structure improvements, and replacing conduits.

Once the project is completed, “it will provide improved flood protection and increased safety.”

There’s no immediate word on when the work will begin.

The remaining funds from the allocated $3.34 million will go elsewhere in Kansas.

(KAIR)--A member of the Kansas Aryan Brotherhood is convicted in Leavenworth County District Court for his role in an attack on a fellow inmate in the Kansas Department of Corrections.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 29-year-old Andrew Michael Hogue was convicted Friday for aggravated battery for the attack that took place in April, 2019, in the maximum security dining hall at Lansing prison.

According to Thompson, both Hogue and the victim were members of the Kansas Aryan Brotherhood white supremacist prison gang.

Hogue, Thompson said, “was sent a coded message from another member [of the gang] ordering a violent attack on the victim who had fallen out of favor with the group.”

The victim was stabbed multiple times with what Thompson calls “an improvised device.”

The victim survived the stabbing.

(KAIR)--The latest residential burglary in Atchison is under investigation, with nearly $2,000 worth of items, including firearms, taken in the crime.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, it happened sometime between 3:35 Friday morning and 1:40 Friday afternoon at a residence in the 300 block of Kansas Avenue.

Taken in the burglary were three firearms, a box of knives, and liquor. All totaled, the value of the missing items holds a total value of $1,850.

The burglary is the latest to happen in Atchison, with police last week launching investigations into three others, all of which occurred while Benedictine College students were away from residences during the extended Easter weekend.

More than $4,000 dollars worth of items, ranging from cash to electronics, were taken in those burglaries.

Forced entry was made into all of the homes. 

Anyone with information related to any of the crimes should contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KAIR)--The burn ban put in place for Doniphan County has been lifted.

That word was delivered in a release Monday morning, April 25, which advises residents to continue to use caution when conducting any open burning.

The ban was issued Friday, April 22, due to strong winds that continued into the weekend.

Although gusty winds remain in the forecast, weekend rainfall alleviated the dry conditions around parts of the local area.

(KAIR)--An Atchison neighborhood, courtesy of Project Atchison, Riverbend Habitat for Humanity, and 100+ volunteers, underwent Extreme Neighborhood Makeover 2022, during the weekend. 
Hear the story below. 

(KNZA)--USDA Rural Development has announced investments of more than $3.3 million for eight projects in Kansas—including a project in Doniphan County.

According to a release from USDA Rural Development, a more than $2.9 million grant will be used toward the construction of levee improvements for flood protection for the communities of Elwood, Wathena and rural areas of Doniphan County.

The release says planning and construction will address the following issues: raising the levee, installing relief wells, making drainage structure improvements and replacing conduits. 

Once the project is completed, the release says it will provide improved flood protection and increased safety.

The grant awards were announced Friday in honor of Earth Day.

(KNZA)--The Giving Grove, a Kansas City-based nonprofit, is partnering with the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska to install an orchard with 50 fruit trees on tribal land.

According to a release from The Giving Grove, it marks the first step in restoring a historic orchard that existed on tribal land 100 years ago but was later cleared for farming. The release says it also supports the tribe's larger efforts around regenerative agriculture and sustainability.

The trees are to be planted Tuesday ( April 26) near the tribe's community preschool.

Iowa Tribal Chairman Timothy Rhodd said in addition to feeding their community and creating economic opportunities, the orchard will also provide a beautiful outdoor classroom and play area for their children.

Since its launch in 2013, the Giving Grove network has installed more than 350 community orchards across the United States through partnerships with local organizations.

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison is recognized as having safe water.  

That’s outlined in the annual Consumer Confidence Report, covering water safety standards for 2021, released by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, with the report saying that Atchison’s safe water is based on KDHE and EPA standards.  The release, intended to be read by the public, states that, “the bottom line is that the water provided to you is safe.”  

According to the release, City of Atchison staff continually monitor the water, testing it consistently and often to ensure that it has been adequately filtered and cleaned. Atchison sources its water from the Missouri River, which creates many challenges. The goal is safe water for drinking and many other residential and commercial uses. For 2021, Atchison’s water met those standards. The report shares testing results from various collection dates. Atchison is required by law to report to the public any instances of violations when they occur, and there were no violations throughout 2021.

There are 6 members of the city staff responsible for water quality efforts, and they have a combined 97 years of experience. “The skill and dedication of the crew at our water treatment facility makes this achievement possible,” City Manager Amy Finch said. “They work tirelessly to provide safe water for all of Atchison.”

(KAIR)--April is Safe Digging Month in Kansas, and Dawn Tripp, of Kansas Gas Service, says it's time to be a dig hero. 
Hear the story below. 

(KAIR)--Atchison students Friday learned first hand the operations of the Atchison Fire Department.  

That happened when Atchison Elementary School kindergarten students met with firefighters, toured the fire department, and learned about fire safety.  

The City of Atchison, in a social media post, cited the length of time since such visits have occurred, apparently referring to the precautions taken during the coronavirus pandemic, putting a temporary end to such student field trips.  

Meanwhile, a busy weekend awaits some members of the Atchison Fire Department.  That’s because some are lending their time to a local effort to cleanup and restore an Atchison neighborhood.  According to a release, those members “are volunteering off duty time to help Project Atchison and Riverbend Habitat For Humanity with the 2nd annual Extreme Neighborhood Makeover.  

As part of the effort, the off duty firefighters will replace an unsafe porch and replacing it with a newly constructed deck.  

The cleanup effort began prior to the weekend, with volunteers, including local area students, at work Friday.

(KAIR)--A change is made regarding planned asphalt mill and overlay services for two Atchison projects following a reexamination of the original plan following concerns voiced by an area company regarding the City’s bid process.
Listen to the story below. 

(KAIR)--A Wounded Warrior Memorial Stone is now in place at the City of Atchison Riverfront.

The idea of the memorial was that of Atchison resident Jackie Bowen who, last year, took the matter before the Riverfront Foundation, with that organization granting its approval.

The proposal then went to the Atchison City Commission which, in June of last year, gave its approval to placement of the memorial stone.

Bowen went to work to raise the funds, estimated at the time to be around $4,400, necessary to see the stone installed.

Less than one year later, Bowen’s plan is a reality, with the Wounded Warriors Memorial Stone now in place.

Among the messages inscribed in the memorial is one at the top that says, “Dedicated to the men and women wounded in all our wars and terrorist attacks preserving the freedom of the U.S.A.

A message at the bottom of the stone reads, "Atchison County Combat Wounded."

(KNZA)---Hiawatha 's Homer White American Legion Post 66 has recognized the Hiawatha FFA Chapter.

Post 66 Commander Bill Vonderschmidt presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Hiawatha FFA Chapter leaders, President Sidney Johansen and Vice-President Allision Arment, on April 14 for their veterans program this school year.

Chaplain Bob Sines said the FFA Chapter has had a veterans program for several years, and they keep getting better each year.

It marks the second appreciation award presented by Post 66 this month.

They began the awards program to recognize local citizens or organizations who have been supporting, recognizing Veterans, and/or Veteran events in the community.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska State Colleges Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Robert Ingram, Jr. as the 2022 Teaching Excellence Award recipient for the Nebraska State College System. Dr. Ingram was selected during the Board of Trustees meeting on April 21 and will be celebrated during the spring commencement ceremony at Peru State College.

“Dr. Ingram is an outstanding educator who is passionate about the success of each student. His dedication to students reflects the core values, mission and vision of Peru State College and the Nebraska State College System,” said Chancellor Paul Turman of the Nebraska State College System (NSCS). “His dedication and devotion to the field of education serves as an example to those seeking to positively impact students’ lives.”

Each year the NSCS recognizes a faculty member from one of the three State Colleges with the Teaching Excellence Award. A nominee from each College is submitted for consideration after being selected as the College-level Teaching Excellence Award recipient.  The award recognizes superior teaching and advising, innovative instructional practice, high educational standards, and engaging learning environments that inspire and motivate students.

Ingram’s nomination included several letters of support, including these highlighted quotes: 

“Dr. Ingram truly makes a positive impact on each teacher candidate in the education program. He is caring, knowledgeable, positive, understanding, hard-working, and helpful. Dr. Ingram is someone I look up to as a future educator. He inspires me with not only the depth of his knowledge but also the way in which he advocates for each of his teacher candidates. Dr. Ingram has played an extremely important role in my educational journey, and I can only hope to impact my future students the way he has impacted me,” said Amanda Anderson, Teacher Candidate at Peru State.

“Dr. Ingram has devoted his career to building relationships that are meaningful and rewarding, starting with his own students and working outward to the Peru State community, to school districts in the region, and beyond to create opportunities that benefit everyone involved. He has touched the lives of hundreds of teacher candidates who are now teachers themselves, and who are carrying his example forward into classrooms of their own,” said Dr. Michael Evans, President of Peru State College.

“Teaching excellence, to Dr. Ingram, is lived out in so many more ways than through classroom instruction. While his instruction is strong, his knowledge, skills, and dispositions in education are exceptional as well and they show far beyond the four walls of the classroom,” said Dr. Kelly Kingsley, Associate Professor of Education at Peru State College. “He takes great pride in being able to reach every student and to help them be successful.”

“I am honored to be awarded the Teaching Excellence Award.  My love of teaching has been rewarded time and time again through the relationships established with students, faculty, staff, and community members. I truly embrace goal one of our school’s Strategic Plan and work diligently to provide opportunities for students to attain academic excellence through engagement,” said Dr. Robert Ingram, Jr., Associate Professor of Education.

Ingram earned his Ed.D. in educational administration and supervision, masters in learning disabilities, and bachelors in elementary education and special education from the University of Nebraska – Omaha.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska State Colleges Board of Trustees has selected Dr. Robert Ingram, Jr. as the 2022 Teaching Excellence Award recipient for the Nebraska State College System. Dr. Ingram was selected during the Board of Trustees meeting on April 21 and will be celebrated during the spring commencement ceremony at Peru State College.

“Dr. Ingram is an outstanding educator who is passionate about the success of each student. His dedication to students reflects the core values, mission and vision of Peru State College and the Nebraska State College System,” said Chancellor Paul Turman of the Nebraska State College System (NSCS). “His dedication and devotion to the field of education serves as an example to those seeking to positively impact students’ lives.”

Each year the NSCS recognizes a faculty member from one of the three State Colleges with the Teaching Excellence Award. A nominee from each College is submitted for consideration after being selected as the College-level Teaching Excellence Award recipient.  The award recognizes superior teaching and advising, innovative instructional practice, high educational standards, and engaging learning environments that inspire and motivate students.

Ingram’s nomination included several letters of support, including these highlighted quotes: 

“Dr. Ingram truly makes a positive impact on each teacher candidate in the education program. He is caring, knowledgeable, positive, understanding, hard-working, and helpful. Dr. Ingram is someone I look up to as a future educator. He inspires me with not only the depth of his knowledge but also the way in which he advocates for each of his teacher candidates. Dr. Ingram has played an extremely important role in my educational journey, and I can only hope to impact my future students the way he has impacted me,” said Amanda Anderson, Teacher Candidate at Peru State.

“Dr. Ingram has devoted his career to building relationships that are meaningful and rewarding, starting with his own students and working outward to the Peru State community, to school districts in the region, and beyond to create opportunities that benefit everyone involved. He has touched the lives of hundreds of teacher candidates who are now teachers themselves, and who are carrying his example forward into classrooms of their own,” said Dr. Michael Evans, President of Peru State College.

“Teaching excellence, to Dr. Ingram, is lived out in so many more ways than through classroom instruction. While his instruction is strong, his knowledge, skills, and dispositions in education are exceptional as well and they show far beyond the four walls of the classroom,” said Dr. Kelly Kingsley, Associate Professor of Education at Peru State College. “He takes great pride in being able to reach every student and to help them be successful.”

“I am honored to be awarded the Teaching Excellence Award.  My love of teaching has been rewarded time and time again through the relationships established with students, faculty, staff, and community members. I truly embrace goal one of our school’s Strategic Plan and work diligently to provide opportunities for students to attain academic excellence through engagement,” said Dr. Robert Ingram, Jr., Associate Professor of Education.

Ingram earned his Ed.D. in educational administration and supervision, masters in learning disabilities, and bachelors in elementary education and special education from the University of Nebraska – Omaha.

(Peru, Neb.) – Experts from the Office of the Nebraska Attorney General will present “Everything You Need to Know About Sexual Assault in Nebraska,” at 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 27, in the Performing Arts Center at Peru State College. George C. Welch, Assistant Attorney General, and Anne Boatright, State Forensic Nursing Coordinator and Sexual Assault Payment Program Administrator, will make a presentation and engage the audience in discussion. Free to the public, the event wraps up the College’s month-long observation of national Sexual Assault Awareness Month.

Welch graduated from the University of Nebraska College of Law in 2011 and joined the Attorney General’s office that same year. As the state’s VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) prosecutor in the Criminal Bureau, Welch specializes in cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

As a certified Forensic Nurse Examiner (FNE), Boatright joined the Criminal Bureau in 2017. Boatright completed a Master of Science in Nursing in 2015 from Nebraska Methodist College. She was inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy of Nursing in 2021. A member of the Nebraska Human Trafficking Task Force (NHTTF) and the Board of Directors for the International Association of Forensic Nurses, she works to further impact care for victims on a global scale.

(KLZA)-- Duane Nauman was sworn in as Mayor of Mound City, Missouri during the April 14, Board of Aldermen meeting. James Krueger was sworn in as the new South Ward Alderman. North Ward Alderman Robert Heck who ran unopposed was sworn in following his reelection

During the meeting the Council voted to approve the election results including the continuation of the Street Light Tax.

James Krueger was elected President of the Board of Aldermen with Anissa Brandon elected City Clerk. Brian Tubbs was appointed City Attorney, Jennifer Heck as City Collector and Hugh Nauman as Building Inspector.

The Board awarded a bid in an amount of $1,450 from Parker Staples to reseed Ridge Street to Sunset Street where the new sewer line was laid and $250 per tree to replace up to four trees at the Alan Yocum residence.

In other business the Board awarded a bid for two tractor tires to Harmon's OK Tire in Falls City at a cost of $1,400 plus $235 for installation. It was the lowest of three bids received.

The Board also approved the appointment of Eamonn Ferguson to fulfill the unexpired term of Edwin Staples on the Mound City Housing Authority.

(KMZA)--Seneca Police Chief Jordan Weaver has been hired for a new city position.

The Seneca City Council  Wednesday evening approved hiring Weaver to serve as Recreation and Community Development Director.

Weaver will begin his new job May 1 at a salary of $55,000.

He has served with the Seneca Police Department since June 2010 and as Police Chief since November 2015.

The Council approved the appointment of current officer Dylan Blevins to serve as Interim Police Chief until a replacement is hired, effective May 1.

The city will begin advertising for a new police chief immediately.

In other action, the Council voted to hire current part-time police officer Jerry Quint as city Code Enforcement Officer, effective May 1. Quint will be paid $20 an hour.  He will work on an as-needed basis.

LEAVENWORTH, Kan. (AP) — The trial for a former Leavenworth police officer charged with shooting a man to death in 2017 has ended in a mistrial.

The mistrial was declared Wednesday after a jury in Leavenworth could not reach a unanimous verdict in the trial of Matthew Harrington.

Harrington was charged with involuntary manslaughter after shooting 47-year-old Antonio Garcia Jr. in July 2017 while he was sitting inside a vehicle in Leavenworth. Prosecutors said Garcia had a knife but didn't threaten Harrington.

He was fired from the Leavenworth force after a department investigation found he had violated policies on use of deadly force.

A hearing is scheduled for May 4 to determine if a second trial will be held.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the cost of installation for water service from Rural Water District #2 at the County Shop in Barada when they met Tuesday. The cost will be $3,250.

Commissioners also reviewed an agreement with Rural Water District #2 for the use of county road right-of-way for the installation of waterline. Action on the request will taken during the Boards April 26 meeting.

Commissioners met in Executive Session with Sheriff Rick Hardesty to discuss personnel matters.

Commissioners also approved a quote for glass tinting in the communication area at the Law Enforcement Center at an estimated cost of $600.

A teleconference was held with Dave Bramow of Prochaska & Associates Engineers to discuss the Courthouse roof replacement along with a formal report prepared by Elevate Roofing. Masonry repairs that need to be made to the exterior, especially on the north face of the building were discussed.

Commissioners John Caverzagie reported that in the past week he had authorized minor repairs needed immediately to the Courthouse roof at a cost of $2,287 to avoid major water damages.

Emergency Management Agency Director Brian Kirkendall met with Commissioners to review the county-wide radio system. It has been discovered after a fire incident last week, that the fire departments have made changes to frequencies which affect the ability to communicate with one another during a mutual aid call.

Commissioners requested Kirkendall research the matter to help resolve the problem.

(KLZA)-- The annual Falls City Community Cleanup begins Friday in Falls City.

Friday from 4 – 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 – 10:30 a.m. Falls City residents can bring household waste, furniture and metals to the parking lot east of Prichard Auditorium. Both Falls City Sanitation and Koelzer Salvage will be on hand to accept items dropped off.

This event is sponsored by the City of Falls City.

Friday from 5 – 7 p.m. F&M Bank in Falls City is sponsoring paper shredding at the Falls City Library and Arts Center south parking lot.

The clean-up events will continue Saturday, April 30th with an electronics recycling event from 9:30 a-m – 12:30 p.m. sponsored by Frontier Bank in Falls City. The items will be accepted in the parking lot south of the library by Cross Electronic Recycling.

Anything with a cord will be accepted including TV's computers, printers, power tools, exercise equipment and microwaves. There will be fees for disposing of televisions, microwaves, large exercise equipment and batteries.

You can visit crossrecycling.com for a list of the processing fees.

(KLZA)-- Community Medical Center in Falls City is sponsoring an Earth Day Walk-Run for Fun event Sunday beginning at Stanton Lake Park.

The event begins at 12:15 p.m and will begin and end at Stanton Lake.

The entry fee is $20 per person with proceeds going toward the walking trail around the Community Medical Center campus. Business and corporate sponsorships are also available for $100 per team.

In addition to the walk and run event, John Rogers will provide live music, there will be crafts, yoga, ice cream and nature projects.

For more information contact Linda Santo at 402-245-6704.

(KAIR)--Atchison County authorities are working to find why a stolen car was found ablaze Monday afternoon.  

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, deputies responded to 206th and Rawlins Road, around 4:40 Monday afternoon, following the report of a vehicle on fire.  When they arrived, they found Leavenworth County Fire Department firefighters engaged in extinguishing the fire.

Once put out, an investigation was launched, with deputies discovering that the license plate on the vehicle, identified as a 2011 Kia Sorento SUV, was stolen, and belonged to Overland Park’s Budget Rental. It was also learned that the SUV had been reported stolen from Lansing a few hours prior to it being found on fire.

According to Laurie, suspects in the case may have been seen leaving the location of the Kia’s discovery in a black vehicle.  

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

(KLZA)-- Nebraska Republican gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster from Falls City conducted a ZOOM call Wednesday afternoon in which he once again denied sexual misconduct allegations leveled against him last week.

Herbster said he was somewhat surprised by the accusations leveled against him personally last week, although Governor Ricketts and others have been talking about he accusations since he announced in April of 2021 that he was running for Governor.

Eight women, including Nebraska First District State Senator Julie Slama, accused Herbster of sexual misconduct in a report in the April 14, Nebraska Examiner.

Herbster, who was speaking form his Omaha condominium called the allegations 100 percent false, saying he never has and never will act they way of the accusations leveled against him last week.

Herbster said in an effort to not let is name and reputation be ruined, he has engaged a law firm to send litigation holds to Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts, Republican gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen and Senator Slama.

(KNZA)--After several setbacks, the Horton ball field improvements project is moving forward.

The Horton City Commission voted Monday evening to award the project to TS Fence, of Plattsburg, Missouri for a total of $389,535, which includes two alternate bids.

The bid is for the renovation of field one, which is to be used for school league ball. The alternate bids are for a red shale infield mixture and chain link backstop for field 2, which is to be used by little league teams and as a softball field.

City Clerk Kim Knudson told MSC News the commission will consider whether or not to apply for another Community Development Block grant in October to complete the renovation of the 2nd field, or try to raise funds to complete the field themselves.

Bids were received from two companies. The other bid was from GameTime Athletics.

The city was awarded a $190,000 Community Development Block grant last year for the project and the Horton Industrial Development Corporation committed to providing $190,000 in matching funds.

The Kansas Department of Commerce in March granted the city an extension until April 28 to award the construction contract.

(KLZA)--  The oldest institution of higher education in the state of Nebraska will hold its 2022 commencement on Saturday, May 7, at 10 a.m.

Peru State’s annual event will be held in the Al Wheeler Activity Center on the College’s campus.

Mr. John Chaney will provide greetings from the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees.

Peru State will present a Distinguished Service Award and a Teacher Excellence Award with an announcement of the honorees to be addressed closer to the event.

Over 400 masters and undergraduates degrees will be conferred. Eight students will be recognized as Honors Program Graduates.

Following the conclusion of commencement, those in attendance are invited to a celebration reception on the campus quad. Light hors d’oeuvres and music will be provided which will give families, friends, and the College’s faculty/staff an opportunity to wish the 2022 graduates success in their future endeavors.

(KLLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved advertising for the purchase of a power distribution center that will be part of an electrical upgrade project in downtown Falls City when they met Monday evening.

Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring said it is necessary to get started on the purchase of the equipment for the project which is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2023.  It is anticipated it will take 10 – 12 months to get the equipment delivered.  JEO Engineers suggested going to bid now and the Board of Public Works agreed.

Luhring says the cost estimate for the power distribution center is $860 thousand to just over one million dollars.  

In other business the Council approved the expenditure of $27,500 to enter into an agreement with Miller & Associates to provide survey, design and prepare bidding documents for the replacement of approximately 5200 linear feet of forcemain for the sewer system.  Luhring says the current cast iron pipe line is old and since a new lift station was put in to pump sewage,  there have been two breaks and cracks in the line.  The estimate to replace the line,  likely in 2023 will be in the neighborhood of $500-thousand.  Luhring is hoping grant funds will be available for the project. 

An agreement with Constructed Wetland Group of Florida for services regarding the sludge rehabilitation project at the Wastewater treatment Plant in amount of $80 thousand was approved.  Luhring said some drainage issues with a couple of the reed beds exist now.  The recommendation to clean out the system is every 10 – 11 years,  it has not been done since the system was established 16 years ago.

In a related note,  the Board of Public Works has recommended the City begin a succession plan for Utility Superintendent Luhring who plans to retire December 31, 2023.  The recommendation is to have a new person hired and to shadow Luhring for at least six months, and possibly up to a year before he retires.  The Council approved the plan with the Board of Public Works to begin the process of hiring a new person.  Luhring also recommended the Council recommend if they want an engineer or an engineer preferred but not required in the future.

(KAIR)--A third Atchison residential burglary, occurring sometime between late last week and the past weekend, is under the investigation of Atchison Police

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, an investigation is underway into the burglary that occurred in the 600 block of North 2nd Street, with a Playstation, cash, tools, and two rifles stolen from the home.

The total value of the loss is estimated at around $2,500.

According to Wilson, it’s believed the burglary, the third being investigated that occurred while Benedictine College students were away from residences during the extended Easter weekend, happened sometime between Thursday and Monday.

A loss of around $1,800 is estimated following forced entry made into a residence in the 700 block of North 2nd Street, sometime between Saturday night and early Sunday morning.

Taken from that home was cash, a watch, air pods, a backpack containing a laptop, a television, and a Playstation.

Another weekend burglary occurred in the 200 block of East Mound Street, but nothing is believed to have been taken from that residence.

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

(KLZA)--A town hall meeting is scheduled for Friday, April 29 at the Old Fire Hall in Humboldt.

The topic of discussion for the 7:00 p.m. meeting will be the proposed 1.5 percent sales tax that will be on the ballot on May 10.

The City Council will be represented to discuss how the sales tax would affect the City.

The public is encouraged to attend and ask questions and discuss what you would like to see happen.

(KLZA)--Unemployment in Nebraska continues to be at historically low rates at two-percent. That figure is the same as the rate in Utah and is the best unemployment figure in the nation.

In March there were more Nebraska residents employed than at any other time in the state's history.

Nationally, the unemployment rate is 3.6 percent.

Richardson County has the lowest unemployment in Southeast, Nebraska at 1.9 percent for March. The jobless rate was two-percent in Pawnee County, 2.1 percent in Nemaha County. The highest unemployment rate in the area was 3.1 percent in Johnson County.

Gage County had an unemployment rate of 2.4 percent and in Otoe County the jobless rate was 2.3 percent.

Kansas is tied for the fifth best unemployment rate at 2.5 percent. Iowa is tied for 20th at 3.3 percent. Missouri is Tied for 26th at 3.6 percent and New Mexico has the highest unemployment rate in the country at 5.3 percent.

(KAIR)--A Sunday evening pursuit, launched by Atchison Police and assisted by Atchison County Sheriff’s Deputies, ended with the driver of the allegedly fleeing vehicle in jail.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the driver, identified as 22-year-old Atchison resident Sidney Darrenkamp, “was known at the time to have an active Arrest and Detain Order for probation.”

The release says that Darrenkamp’s vehicle became disabled in the area of 234th and Rooks Road, in rural Atchison County, and he was taken into custody at the scene without further incident.

Darrenkamp, arrested on charges of flee and elude, reckless driving, and multiple traffic infractions, was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

The pursuit took place around 6:50 Sunday evening.

(KNZA)--On Wednesday, April 20, 2022, there will likely be an increase in marijuana use. With an uncertain history, April 20th (more commonly known as 4/20) has become synonymous with marijuana use and, in some circles, the date is a marijuana “holiday.” To help keep drug-impaired drivers off the roads, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is teaming up with Hiawatha Police Department to spread the message that drug-impaired driving of any kind is dangerous and illegal. NHTSA wants to remind all drivers: If You Feel Different, You Drive Different.

Like drunk driving, drug-impaired driving is illegal nationwide. According to NHTSA, between 2009 and 2018, of those drivers killed in crashes and tested for marijuana, the presence of marijuana had nearly doubled. In 2018, 46% of drivers who were killed in crashes and were tested for drugs, tested positive. This is why it’s so important to spread this lifesaving message: If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. It doesn’t matter what term is used: If a person is feeling a little high, buzzed, stoned, or wasted, he or she should not get behind the wheel. Think driving while high isn’t dangerous? It has been proven that THC can slow reaction times, impair cognitive performance, and make it more difficult for drivers to keep a steady position in their lane.

Options to Get Home Safely

Those who plan to use marijuana on 4/20 should have a plan in place and refrain from driving. Here are a few tips to help prepare for a safe night.

• If you have used an impairing substance such as marijuana, do not drive. Passengers should never ride with an impaired driver. If you think a driver may be impaired, do not get in the car.

• If you are drug-impaired, pass the keys to a driver who has not used marijuana and can safely drive you to your destination. Like drunk driving, it is essential that drug-impaired drivers refrain from driving a vehicle. It is never okay to drive while impaired by any substance.

• Do you have a friend who is about to drive while impaired by drugs? Take the keys away and arrange to get them home safely. Don’t worry about offending someone — they’ll thank you later.

• If available, use your community’s sober ride program.

• If you see an impaired driver on the road, call 911.

• If you are a passenger and the driver is impaired or they are driving reckless and will not stop just tell them you don’t feel well and you are going to throw up to get them to stop the vehicle. Once they stop the car get out and call someone to pick you up.

By working together, we can save lives and help keep America’s roadways safe. Please join NHTSA in sharing the lifesaving message, If You Feel Different, You Drive Different. For more information on impaired driving, please visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drug-impaired-driving.

(KNZA)--A Kansas City, Kansas man was arrested late Monday night in Jackson County after leading authorities on a pursuit.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said Liberto Rey Rodriguez, Jr. was taken into custody for fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, avoiding tire deflation devices, reckless driving, felony Interference with Law Enforcement, criminal restraint, driving while suspended, possession of stolen property, no proof of insurance, and expired registration.

Morse says Rodriquez was also wanted by the Kansas Department of Corrections on a parole violation warrant for aggravated robbery.

Jackson County deputies pulled over the 2003 GMC Yukon Rodriguez was driving just before 11:00 Monday night on US-75 near 150th Road for a traffic infraction.

During the stop, Morse said deputies felt Rodriguez was not giving them truthful information and asked him to exit the vehicle. Instead, Rodriguez took off, driving at a high rate of speed north on US-75.

Morse said Rodriguez was able to miss tire deflation devices on US-75 near 214th Road, but hit spike strips placed by Holton Police inside city limits.

Officials say the SUV lost the front driver’s side tire near 246th and US-75 and entered a ditch. As the vehicle was traveling at about 10 miles an hour, Morse says deputies could see a female occupant in the passenger seat place her hands out the window and try to open the passenger side door.

Morse says the pursuit finally came to an end near US-75 and 262nd St. and Rodriguez was immediately taken into custody.

The female passenger was not arrested.

(KNZA)--The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education, when they meet last week, approved security system bids, which are part of a $7 million bond issue approved by voters last November.

The Board approved bids from South Western Communications ( All Systems) totaling more than $113,000 for the installation of access control systems at the district's three schools, along with Activity Center and Board office.

Following an executive session, the board accepted the resignations of Horton High School Counselor Tyler Smith, David Losey as High School head football coach, Tori Mace as Everest Middle School girls basketball coach and Brandi Tawzer as a bus driver, effective at the end of the current school year.

Following a separate closed door session, the board approved the hiring of Debbie Mitchell as 1st grade teacher, Jenna Larson as 3rd grade teacher, Josie Santos as 4th grade teacher, Becky Wahwasuck as the TeamMates coordinator and Alexis Bippes as summer school coordinator.

Also the USD 430 board also approved a change to this year's calendar making the last day for students May 13

(KNZA)--A GoFundMe account has been set up for a Hiawatha teen seriously injured in a single-vehicle wreck early Friday morning in Brown County.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant said 16-year-old Kade Pyle was injured in a wreck in the vicinity of 290th and Killdeer Roads, north of Hiawatha, that was reported around 2:30 Friday morning.  

Pyle, who was the sole occupant in the vehicle, was transported by ambulance to Hiawatha's Amberwell Hospital and later flown by helicopter to the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City.  

The wreck remains under investigation.

A GoFundMe account for Pyle, who is a junior at Hiawatha High School, has been set up by Kelly Griswold to help his family with expenses.  To make a donation, you can go to Pray for Kade at gofundme.com https://www.gofundme.com/f/7x7wc-pray-for-kade?qid=bed354343583657f9efe17b5afae589c

(KNZA)---Hiawatha Mayor Bill Collins has filed for re-election to a second 4-year term.

The Brown County Clerk's office reports Collins filed Monday.

He joins current city commissioners Becky Shamburg and Brian Shefferd in vying for the position.

Also up for election in November on the Hiawatha City Commission is the position of Commissioner of Finance. Incumbent David Middendorf is being challeged by Thomas Martin for the position.

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

A primary election will  be held August 2, if needed.

The general election will be held November 8.

(KLZA)-- Holt County, Missouri, Route B will be closed daily, just north of Route 120, through Wednesday, April 27.

The Missouri Department of Transportation issued a permit to Geotechnology Inc. to conduct core drilling operations near the Hickory Creek Bridge.

The road will be closed daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., including weekends. It will reopen each afternoon. Motorists are being directed over a signed detour on U.S. Route 59 and Routes 113 and 120.

All work is weather-permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

(KLZA)-- Three people suffered what were described as serious injures in a two-vehicle wreck in Cameron, Missouri Sunday afternoon.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports a pickup, northbound on Ensign Trace failed to yield to a car that was eastbound on U.S. Route 36 in the City limits of Cameron.

The driver of the pickup, 57-year-old James Navin and a passenger in the pickup, 54-year-old Michelle Navin of Tarkio were transported to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph along with the driver of the car, 77-year-old Garrison Pollard of Cowgill, Missouri.

All three people involved in the wreck were wearing safety devices at the time of the crash.

Both vehicles were totaled.

(KNZA)--A new Jackson Heights elementary school principal has been hired.

Following an executive session, the USD 335 Board of Education, when they met last week, voted to hire Daniel Pray for the position at a starting salary of $73,000.

Pray currently serves as head multi-tiered system of supports teacher with the Manhattan-Ogden School District. He will replace current elementary school principal Chris Appuhn, who announced in March his resignation, effective at the end of the school year.

Also following the closed-door session, the USD 335 Board voted to promote current head cross country and track coach Brad Alley to the athletic director's position and accepted his resignation from the coaching position.

(KLZA)-- The FBI is warning parents and caregivers about an increase in incidents involving sextortion of young children.

The FBI is receiving an increasing number of reports of adults posing as young girls coercing young boys through social media to produce sexual images and videos and then extorting money from them. The FBI Omaha Field Office has received reports of this scheme, as well as other types of sextortion.

Sextortion begins when an adult contacts a minor over any online platform used to meet and communicate, such as a game, app, or social media account.

In a scheme that has recently become more prevalent, the predator uses deception and manipulation to convince a young male, usually 14 to 17 years old, to engage in explicit activity over video, which is then secretly recorded by the predator.

The predator then reveals that they have made the recordings and attempts to extort the victim for money to prevent them from being posted online.

Sextortion is a crime. The coercion of a child by an adult to produce what is considered Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) carries heavy penalties, which can include up to life sentences for the offender. To make the victimization stop, children typically have to come forward to someone—normally a parent, teacher, caregiver, or law enforcement.

The embarrassment children feel from the activity they were forced to engage in is what typically prevents them from coming forward.

The FBI provides the following tips to protect you and your children online:

1. Be selective about what you share online, especially your personal information and passwords. If your social media accounts are open to everyone, a predator may be able to figure out a lot of information about you or your children.

2. Be wary of anyone you encounter for the first time online. Block or ignore messages from strangers.

   3. Be aware that people can pretend to be anything or anyone online. Videos and photos are not proof that a person is who they claim to be.

   4. Be suspicious if you meet someone on a game or app and they ask you to start talking to them on a different platform.

   5. Encourage your children to report suspicious behavior to a trusted adult.

   If you believe you or someone you know is the victim of sextortion: Contact your local FBI field office, the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov, or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (1-800-the-lost. or Cybertipline.org).

   Do not delete anything before law enforcement is able to review it.

   3. Tell law enforcement everything about the encounters you had online; it may be embarrassing, but it is necessary to find the offender.

   In 2021, the IC3 received over 18,000 sextortion-related complaints, with losses over $13.6 million. This number reflects all types of sextortion reported, not just this particular scheme.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners conducted a teleconference with representatives of the union representing the Richardson County Road Department last week, a consensus was reached on the appointment of Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty as the fifth person to serve on the grievance board.

Commissioners conducted the quarterly jail inspection and found the facility to be in good order.

Also during the meeting the Board received the Annual Report from Southeast Nebraska Community Action from Susan Keholm and Sherry Huddleston, outlining the assistance provided to Richardson County families from October 2021 through March, 2022.

The Board approved a proclamation declaring May as Community Action Month in Richardson County.

(KAIR)--One firefighter required hospital care as the result of an early Easter morning Atchison house fire.

It happened shortly after 3:00 Sunday morning, at 1427 Atchison Street, where Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar says his crews were sent “for a report of heavy black smoke in the area.”

When crews arrived, according to Weishaar, “they found the 2-story home...engulfed in flames,” with no one at home at the time of the fire, due to the home being under renovation.

Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control, although the residence had already sustained heavy damage.

During the battle against the blaze, a firefigher, whose name is not released, suffered an injury and was transported to Amberwell Atchison by Atchison County EMS. According to Weishaar,”they were were evaluated and released.”

Once the sun rose Sunday morning, Weishaar said the the situation was assessed, with the decision made “that the remaining structure would have to be removed due to safety concerns and threat of collapses and the proximity to the adjacent homes.”

Fire crews Sunday worked worked “with local, heavy equipment contractors to expedite the removal of the structure.”

The cause of the fire is under the investigation of Atchison Fire Department investigators.

(KNZA)--Two men, one from Denton, one from Atchison, were inside a vehicle that crashed late Saturday morning during what the Kansas Highway Patrol says was an attempt to flee from law enforcment. 

According to the Patrol, the Dodge Ram pickup truck was fleeing in Brown County, traveling northeast across 130th Road, just west of Horned Owl Road, when the truck struck the ditch and came to rest at 130th. 

The driver of the truck, 31-year-old Liam Odinson, of Denton, suffered a possible injury in the crash but was transported to the Brown County Jail. 

A passenger, 24-year-old Colton Lee Meyer, of Atchison, suffered a suspected minor injury and was transported to Amberwell Atchison for treatment.  

The wreck happened shortly after 11:00 Saturday morning. 

According to the Brown County Jail, Odinson was booked on charges of fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer, driving while license cancelled, suspended or revoked along with outstanding warrants for giving a worthless check & failure to appear.
 

(KLZA)-- During the April 4, Falls City Council meeting, Rich Little asked the Council why golf carts are not allowed to be driven between 14th and 19th Streets on Stone Street, or park downtown.

Council member Don Ferguson told Little the ordinance was written that way originally for safety reasons.

Little also requested the STOP signs at 13th and Stone Streets be changed from east to west on 13th Street to north and south due to the traffic now going to the Dollar Fresh Grocery store. The Council said that could be covered by a planned community-side traffic study.

Council members also approved Little's request for a burn permit in the 600 block of Reavis Street where he has removed trailer home and has been cleaning up brush. Jon McQueen, representing the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department said felt the permit could be approved.

McQueen also noted since Falls City put a burn-ban in place, the Fire Department has had fewer calls in town and that he did not want to go back to issuing numerous burn permits for yards. McQueen suggested that the City may want to look at allowing one weekend in the spring for yard burning, perhaps the same weekend as the annual citywide cleanup event.

In other action the Council approved the purchase of a two-seat UTV for the Cemetery with the cost to be split with the City. Paul Kiekhaefer with the Cemetery Board said this would be a major improvement over the current 55-year-old tractor used at the cemetery now.

The Council approved the purchase of Bobcat UTV and sprayer from Merz Farm Equipment in Falls City at a cost of $26,233. The bid was just over $2,300 more than a bid from an out-of-town dealer. Council member Joe Buckminster said he felt it would be better to keep the business in town even if the cost was a bit higher. Councilman Mitch Merz abstained from the vote.

Council members also approved the purchase of a new slipper slide to replace the current slipper slide at Legion Park. The cost will be $5,860 for a tube slide.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board, during a special meeting Wednesday morning, approved a new head lice policy.

The change will allow students with live lice to remain in class instead of being sent home for treatment.

The policy change was proposed at last month's board meeting and was further discussed when the board meet Monday evening, with final approval delayed until Wednesday's special meeting.

The new policy follows updated CDC and Kansas School Nurse Organization guidelines.

The biggest problem with head lice is at the elementary school, where School Nurse Heather Gildersleeve said they are sending at least two students a week home with lice, mostly the same kids.

The Board agreed the district should purchase treatment kits so they are able to treat students at school for lice, with the permission of their parents.  The concern is irresponsible parents who would neglect to treat the live bugs.

Gildersleeve said lice are spread by direct contact with the hair of an infested person and don't jump.

Meanwhile, at Monday's regular board meeting, the board accepted a $4,605 donation from Steve Lock, on behalf of the class of 1970, to be used toward the purchase of tables for around the concession stand at Memorial Stadium.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser placed the total cost to complete the project at around $7,600.

(KMZA)--A fire sprinkler system will be installed at the original Axtell school building to improve code issues.

On the recommendation of the project architect, the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education Monday evening selected the fire sprinkler option over a new exterior stair to replace the existing fire escape.

The sprinkler system, which will be installed on the three levels of the school, will cost nearly $227,000. Sprinklers will not be added on the auditorium side.

The cost for the exterior stair option was placed at nearly $257,000.

Superintendent Todd Evans said not only will be sprinkler system cost less, but it will provide students with a safer environment.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Sheriff’s office is asking residents in the Mayetta and Hoyt area, to call the Sheriff’s office if they had contact or observed a dark colored sedan driving in the rural area of Mayetta and Hoyt on Wednesday afternoon.

The Sheriff’s office, in a release, said they are asking residents in that area to review any home camera footage of the dark colored sedan and or the driver of the sedan that might have stopped at a residence near 118th and Q. Roads during daytime hours.

The release says the request for information is in reference to an ongoing theft case that was reported to the Jackson County Sheriff’s office.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska Gubernatorial candidate Charles W. Herbster issued a statement Thursday afternoon unequivocally denying accusations that he inappropriately groped several women including First District State Senator Julie Slama, calling the claims 100% false.

In the statement Herbster says the “fake-news story” is a ridiculous, unfounded dirty political trick being carried out by Governor Pete Ricketts and Herbster Republican opponent for Governor Jim Pillen.

Herbster went on in the statement to call the “Nebraska Examiner” the news outlet that first reported the allegations “a leftist news site picking up and repeating garbage from Rickets and Pillen.”

Herbster Communications Director Emily Novotny says Herbsters legal team is taking every possible action to defend Herbsters honor and reputation and hold those involved in the smear campaign accountable.

In the release Herbster says Ricketts is very public about his personal Vendetta against him and that Ricketts and his father admitted to funding dark money attack ads against Herbster.

(KNZA)--There will be contested races this November for the positions of Hiawatha mayor and Commissioner of Finance on the Hiawatha City Commission.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports Brian Shefferd, who currently serves as Commissioner of Utilities, filed Thursday for the position of Mayor.

Shefferd joins current Commissioner of Streets and Parks Becky Shamburg in seeking the position, which is currently held by Bill Collins.

Meanwhile, the County Clerk's Office reports Thomas Martin filed Thursday for the position of Commissioner of Finance.  Martin joins incumbent David Middendorf in vying for the position.

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

A primary election will be held August 2, if needed.

The general election is November 8.

(KLZA)-- A bipartisan group of 13 Nebraska State Senators have issued a joint statement condemning alleged misconduct by Nebraska gubernatorial candidate Charles Herbster who is from Falls City.

The statement was issued following the release of a story in The Nebraska Examiner of corroborated allegations of sexual assault against Herbster.

In the story, eight women, including First District State Senator Julie Slama discussed their experiences with Herbster groping them during political events or beauty pageants, all saying they were grabbed and not inadvertently grazed by Herbster.

The incident involving Slama, which she confirmed, occurred in 2019 at the Douglas County Republican Party's annual Elephant Remembers dinner, alleges Herbster touched her inappropriately, by reaching up her skirt as she walked by without her consent.

The release from the 13 female State Senators says “We commend the brave women who have stepped forward to tell the truth about what they endured at the hands of Charles Herbster, including our friend and colleague, Senator Julie Slama. Sexual assault is despicable and damaging. This is not a question of politics, it is an issue of character and basic human decency. Herbsters behavior is completely unacceptable for anyone, especially someone seeking a public office of authority and trust. Herbster's actions as outlined by the Nebraska Examiner render him unfit to serve.”

Herbster’s campaign manager, Ellen Keast, in a statement issued Wednesday evening, said Herbster denied the women’s allegations “unequivocally.”  Keast said that “this is a political hit-piece built on 100% false and baseless claims.” Keast blamed the “political establishment” for “smearing and trying to destroy him with lies.”

(KAIR )--Governor Laura Kelly announced Tuesday that $100 million is going toward 35 infrastructure investment projects associated with economic development across the state---including two local projects.

The city of Elwood was awarded $226,000 for a potable water and sanitary sewer extension. The Atchison Area Economic Development Corporation was awarded $13,500 for an Industrial Road business park sign.

According to a release, the funding is made available through the Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant program, which offers matching funds to address economic development opportunities to expand the state's base of businesses and residents to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The release says there is a minimum 25% applicant match requirement. In addition, applicants were required to document how the project was delayed or affected negatively due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting negative economic conditions.

The Kansas Department of Commerce received 446 applications totaling $1.8 billion in requested funds.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha's Homer White American Legion Post 66 has initiated a plan to recognize local citizens or organizations who have been supporting/recognizing Veterans and/or Veteran events in the community.  

Chaplain Robert Sines said the Post will be presenting a Certificate of Appreciation to deserving individuals and organizations throughout the coming months.  

The first recipient was Deann Goodwin, who was presented her Certificate of Appreciation on April 5. Sines said Post 66 recognized Goodwin for her many years of dedicated support for veterans.  

The Homer White Post over the last 11 years has gathered needed items for veterans and delivered them to the Leavenworth VA Medical Center residents.  Sines said Goodwin has hand made and prepared containers of lap blankets, bed covers, stocking hats and other personal items during these years.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners have voted to retain $700 thousand of the American Rescue Plan Act funds received by the county.

The funds will be used for various road and bridge projects, Courthouse improvements and communication upgrades.

The Board will continue their review of the use of the remaining ARPA funds and are expected to make a final decision on awarding funds during the April 26 Commissioners meeting.

Several applications for funds have been submitted ranging from requests for housing improvements, an ambulance purchase, expansion by Rural Water District #2, levee stabilization, the Rulo Library and the Richardson County House of Hope.

Richardson County received approximately $1.5 million in ARPA funding

(KLZA)-- Falls City Public Schools is one of nine school districts across Nebraska that will have improved access to early childhood education programs with the use of $1,090,000 in Early Childhood Education Program Grants.

The Falls City School District will receive $75 thousand to provide collaborative early childhood programs to serve at-risk three and four-year-old children. The purpose of the Early Childhood Education Grant Program is to improve equity of access to early childhood education programs.

More than 180 students across the state will benefit from the grant funds.

In other business during Monday nights Falls City School Board meeting Superintendent Tim Heckenlively reported Falls City Public Schools will no longer sponsor the Summer Meal Service, No-Cost Meals in 2022.

The USDA COVID-19 waiver allowing schools to provide alternative types of meal service, including the grab & go multi-day meals, was not renewed for summer, 2022.

Due to the traditional guidelines required of Summer Food Program Sponsors, it will no longer be financially feasible or practical for District 56 to operate the summer program.

In addition, as of Monday, Congress has not given the USDA authority to issue new or extendd COVID-19 Child Nutrition Response waivers for the 2022-23 school year.

A bill to extend the flexibility to provide no-cost meals an to receive the higher reimbursement rates for the coming school year has been introduced in the Senate, however, it has not been put up for a vote.

The Falls City School District will be planning for a return to normal operations, including collecting meal applications and making eligibility determinations for Free, Reduced and Paid-price meals.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha City Commissioner has filed to retain his position on the commission.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports David Middendorf, who serves as Commissioner of Finance, filed Wednesday.  

Middendorf was appointed to the position in December 2019 to fill the unexpired term of John Merchant, Jr.  He also served as interim Finance Commissioner for six months in 2018.

Also up for election in November is the position of mayor, currently held by Bill Collins.

Becky Shamburg, who serves as Commissioner of Streets and Parks, has filed for mayor.

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

The general election will be held November 8.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man, accused of striking another man’s vehicle during a possible road rage incident, is facing charges in connection with the alleged altercation.  

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the alleged crimes occurred Tuesday, after a vehicle driven by 49-year-old Timothy Grafke “was involved in a vehicle collision with another vehicle.”

 According to Laurie, it’s “alleged that Grafke intentionally struck the vehicle in a side swipe collision as a possible road rage incident,” with Grafke following the vehicle to the Atchison Walmart parking lot, where it’s “alleged that he threatened the occupants inside the vehicle while attempting” to get inside the vehicle.

According to Laurie, Grafke was arrested on charges of aggravated assault, criminal threat, and reckless driving.  

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

No injuries are reported from the alleged altercation that happened around 8:30 Tuesday night.

(KNZA)--Former longtime Brown County Register of Deeds Nancy Prawl is being remembered.

Prawl, of Hiawatha, died Tuesday at a hospice house in Topeka at the age of 80.

She was elected Register of Deeds in 1976 and took office in January 1977. Prawl retired in December of 2003 after serving the residents of Brown County for twenty-seven years. During her tenure, she implemented many changes in the Register of Deeds Office.

A celebration of life service for Prawl will be held Saturday morning at 11:00 at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Hiawatha. The family will will meet with friends one hour prior to the service.

Among survivors are a daughter, Penny Milroy.

(Peru, Neb.) – Peru State College and the Foundation initiated a new recognition program in 2019 with the inaugural Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence Awards. The second, 2020 class was selected and preparations made….

            …and then COVID happened. For recipients Jack Moles (’80), Lori (Vrtiska) Seibel (’84), Alec Gorynski (’07) and the late Pat Haverty (’08), 2020 and ’21 passed with no awards ceremony thanks to the pandemic.

 The four will at last be honored on the Peru State campus on Thursday, April 14 at 2 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center. It is open to the public and will be held in conjunction with Peru State's Research and Creativity Expo. A reception will follow in the PAC Lobby.

Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence Awards recognize outstanding alumni from the School of Education, School of Arts and Sciences, School of Professional Studies, and Graduate Programs.

Recipients have demonstrated exceptional service to the College or community and/or demonstrated outstanding achievement in their career or their community. Alumni, faculty, staff and friends of the College may nominate alumni for this award using the form found on the peru.edu website; Alumni tab, search for Thousand Oaks Alumni Award.

Jack Moles, Class of 1980

A long and distinguished career in Nebraska education continues for Jack Moles, currently Executive Director of the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association. 

Moles began his career with the Bartley (Neb.) Public Schools as a teacher and coach before adding administrative duties. He was high school and junior high principal at Arapahoe before spending a year as Superintendent for Amherst Public Schools, then 22 years as superintendent of the Nemaha Valley Schools and Johnson County Central Public Schools.

Now residing in Lincoln, Moles leads the NRCSA as it represents 199 school districts with more than 86,000 students, along with Educational Service Units and state colleges. NRCSA supports and promotes quality education programs for students in rural Nebraska.

As the groups’ Executive Director, Moles provides a direct voice in legislative matters, promotes active involvement of rural schools in state and national educational policy and program issues, and is the group’s liaison with the Nebraska Department of Education, among other duties. 

Lori (Vrtiska) Seibel, Class of 1984 

Early in her career, Lori (Vrtiska) Seibel was the epidemiologist for the City of Lincoln (Neb.), where she resides. She eventually transitioned, within city government, to serving as an assistant to two Lincoln mayors. 

            In 1998 she was appointed the first President and CEO of the then-new Community Health Endowment of Lincoln (CHE). CHE was formed from the proceeds of the nearly $38 million sale of the former Lincoln General Hospital. 

            Since then, CHE has grown to nearly $80 million, and, in addition, returned nearly $40 million in grants and awards to achieve CHE’s vision of making Lincoln “the healthiest community in the nation.” CHE invests in health-related projects and programs and convenes the community around important health issues. 

The native of Table Rock, Neb. has a masters degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is the daughter of the late Sen. Floyd and Doris (Wagner ’47) Vrtiska, who hold a special place in Peru State College history.

Alec Gorynski, Class of 2007

 Alec Gorynski (’07) recently joined the Lincoln (Neb.) Community Foundation as its President & Chief Executive Officer. Throughout his career, Gorynski has led efforts to maximize community impact through philanthropy, planning, and collaboration.

His more than 15 years of experience working across private, nonprofit, and government sectors includes most recently as the Vice President of Community Development and Corporate Philanthropy for First National Bank of Omaha, and as President of the First National Community Development Corporation.

Previous roles include Vice President of Regional Community Affairs for Bank of the West. and Deputy Grant Administrator in the Omaha Mayor’s Office. Born and raised in Lincoln, Gorynski obtained his bachelors degree in psychology and criminal justice at Peru State, and his masters from the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

Gorynski will lead the LCF through its next chapter and generation of growth and impact. The Lincoln Community Foundation has a long history of facilitating philanthropic partnerships for the benefit of Lincoln, and for leading the efforts to transform the community through its community leaderships initiatives such as Prosper Lincoln. 

Patrick Haverty, Class of 2008

            Pat Haverty (masters ’08) left a big mark wherever he went. Tragically, his upward path was cut short when he passed away in September 2020. He will be represented by family at the awards ceremony.

 Haverty was Vice President for the Lincoln (Neb.) Partnership for Economic Development when he died. The Partnership works to support the Lincoln business community through development, retention, expansion, entrepreneurship, and talent strategy.

Haverty previously served as executive as executive director of the Nebraska City Economic Development group from 2005-09, and as the city administrator for Nebraska City from 2009-11.

 He attended Peru State as an undergraduate, playing football for the Bobcats, before he transferred. Haverty returned to obtain his masters in 2008, and he served as an adjunct instructor for PSC from 2009 until his passing.

(KAIR)--Violations of school district policies are cited as reasons for the non-renewal of the contract for a long-time Atchison Public School teacher.  

Monica Beien is currently placed on suspension, with pay, with the Board of Education’s intent to non-renew for the next school year laid out in a resolution at Monday’s meeting of the School Board for USD 409. 

To hear the full story, listen below. 

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved moving forward with the demolition of four structures on the city's minimum housing code violation list.

Commissioners took the action after Code Enforcement Officer Dave Wilson reported no progress had been made on the structures despite the properties owners being granted an extension until April 11 to make improvements.

Commissioners voted 5-0 to approve the demolition of structures located at 308 South 10th Street, 606 Kansas Avenue and 507 Miami Street.

In a separate vote, the Commission voted 4-1 to approve the demolition of a house at 111 Navajo Street. Commissioner Brian Shefferd cast the lone no vote, saying in favored giving the property owner a three-month extension to see he could sell the property.

The Commission also voted to remove two other properties located at 804 Kansas Avenue and 412 Miami Street from the minimum housing code violation list after Wilson reported improvements have been made on the two properties.

(KLZA)-- Bills passing on final reading in the Nebraska Legislature Tuesday were great news for the community of Peru and Peru State College.

The first bit of good news was approval of $5 million to help with local contributions toward the repair of the Corps of Engineers levy that protects Peru that is still in need of repairs.

Peru State College was not left out of the good news Tuesday as LB 887 passed 47-0 on final reading. The bill will expand the number of advanced degree offerings Peru State College can offer.

LB 887 was a priority bill for the Speaker of the Legislature. Passage of the bill puts Peru State on the same plane as all the other colleges in Nebraska.

Senator Slama told MSC News passage of the bill is a huge thing for higher education in Southeast Nebraska and workforce development.

(KNZA)--Governor Laura Kelly on Tuesday signed House Bill 2644, designating Sandhill Plum as the state fruit of Kansas.

The efforts to pass the legislation began in 2021 when more than 400 fourth-and fifth-grade students from 24 different schools participated in a process that included writing essays, sending letters to state representatives, and voting to determine what they believed should be the designated state fruit for Kansas.  

The students from Sabetha Elementary School, who started the process, were in attendance to witness the bill become law.  

"I am proud of the efforts put forth by the students from Sabetha Elementary School and beyond," Governor Laura Kelly said. "Hundreds of bills are introduced each legislative session, but not all of them make it to this point. It's a shining example of what hard work and determination can truly accomplish at any age." 

Ten students testified virtually in March on behalf of HB2644 in front of the House Federal and State Affairs Committee.

The Sandhill Plum beat out the Red Mulberry, the American Persimmon, and the Gooseberry.  More information about HB2644 can be found here.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Legislature voted 42-0 Tuesday with five Senators not casting votes to approved LB 977, First District State Senator Julie Slama's priority bill to set aside $15 million from the states cash reserves, tranferring the money to the site and Building Development Fund to help Falls City get a second power line feeding the community from OPPD.

Senator Slama told MSC News she was thrilled to get the record state infrastructure investment bill that will aid Falls City for decades to come passed.  

The bill is structured in such a way that Falls City is the only community in the state that would qualify for the funds. The money is specifically for an electrical system upgrade.  

Falls City has lost out on several industries locating in the community becasue the city is unable to supply enough electrial power for those businesses to operate.  

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Legislature voted 42-0 Tuesday with five Senators not casting voes to approved LB 977, First District State Senator Julie Slama's priority bill to set aside $15 million from the states cash reserves, tranferring the money to the site and Building Development Fund to help Falls City get a second power line feeding the community from OPPD.

Senator Slama told MSC News she was thrilled to get the record state infrastructure investmanet bill that will aid Falls City for decades to come passed.  

The bill is structured in such a way that Falls City is the only community in the state that would qualify for the funds. The money is specifically for an electrical system upgrade.  

Falls City has lost out on several industries locating in the community becasue the city is unable to supply enough electrial power for those businesses to operate.  

(KNZA)--A new Hiawatha Elementary School principal has been hired for the 2022-23 school year.

Following an executive session Monday evening, the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education voted to hire Danielle Dierenfeldt for the position.

She will replace current principal Paul Carver, whose resignation was approved at last month's board meeting, effective at the end of the current school year.

Dierenfeldt comes to Hiawatha from Savannah, Missouri schools where she currently teaches second grade. This is her first administration position.

Also following Monday's executive session, the board voted to hire Carey McFann as high school social studies teacher for the 2022-23 school year and offer Emily Chandler a Title 1 teaching position at the elementary school.

In addition, the board approved the resignation of kindergarten teacher Jamie Van Peursem.

(KAIR)--More than $42,000 in attorney fees are awarded to the City of Atchison, “bringing closure to the lawsuit between the City and Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie.”

That’s according to a release issued Tuesday by the City, which says the fees were awarded by Atchison County District Court Judge David J. King in connection with the lawsuit.

The release notes that the City, in October of last year, was awarded a summary judgment in the case, “which affirmed that the Sheriff could not deny detainees at Atchison County Jail, pursuant to state statute.”

The case was filed December 21, 2020 “after the Sheriff refused a detainee into the jail that had been arrested by Atchison Police December 18” of that year.

Laurie filed a countersuit in the case, maintaining that the City of Atchison brings prisoners to the jail who are in need of medical attention, alleging that’s done to defer medical costs to the County.

According to the City’s release, the countersuit was dismissed by Judge King in July of 2021, and notes that “efforts by the City to settle the case were unsuccessful.”

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education accepted a bid of $376 thousand for the turf replacement project at Jug Brown Stadium when they met Monday evening.

Sprinturf submitted a base bid of $376 thousand and two alternates were approved. The first is to add a tiger head logo at midfield at a cost of $14,300 and the second alternate is to add end zone letters “FALLS CITY” and “TIGERS” at a cost of $22 thousand.

Falls City Public Schools will fund in full the base bid, with the Tiger Booster Club raising funds for the cost associated with the bid alternates.

The work will be substantially completed by July 13.

Sprinturf is intending to award a subcontract to Nemaha Sports Construction.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved several agenda items that will help move the 33rd Street project forward.

EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl requested the Council approve land acquisition for the road; a request to hire Olson as Construction Engineer for the project and a request to seek bids for construction of 33rd Street. All the requests were approved.

Froeschl says there is a chance the project could be completed yet this year, but that how busy road crews are will determine when the project will begin.

Community Medical Center in Falls City has agreed to make a substantial monetary commitment towards the cost of the project. The new road would run from Highway 73, west to the driveway of Community Medical Center.

( KLZA) -- A committee consisting of Pawnee City School Board members Hope Koester, Lisa Hunzeker and Jason Vetrovsky has been appointed to investigate and interview superintendent Brian Rottinghaus and parents involved in a situation within the Pawnee City School District.

On April 5, the Pawnee City Board of Education met for just over 12 hours conducting a public hearing to consider the cancellation or continuation of the employment of Third Grade Teacher Scott Brumbaugh.

Following an executive session, the Board voted 3-3 on a motion to adopt the terms for cancellation of Brumbaugh's contract. It would have taken a majority vote to terminate the contract.

This formal complaint against Superintendent Rotinghaus is related to the same situation involving a student that led to the vote on Brumbaughs contract. Brumbaugh has been reinstated from a suspension following the vote.

No other details of the matter have been released.

Superintendent Rottinghaus is in the first year of a two-year contract that runs through June 30, 2023. There are a number of contract terms under which the contract could be cancelled.

(KNZA)--22nd Judicial District Magistrate Judge Scott Anson has filed for re-election for another 4-year term.

Anson, a Bern Republican, is the first candidate to file for the position.

He was first elected as magistrate judge in 2018.

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

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

(KNZA)--$13.2 million in funding will go toward 48 public transit projects across Kansas—including three area projects.  

Governor Laura Kelly joined Federal Transit Administration Administrator Nuria Fernandez and Kansas Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz in making the  announcement last week.  

The Northeast Kansas Area Aging on Aging was awarded nearly $235,000 for clean technology expansion.  The agency serves Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, Marshall, Nemaha and Washington Counties.  

Leavenworth County was awarded $525,000 for a secure parking area for transit vehicles.  

In addition, The Guidance Center, in Leavenworth, was awarded nearly $26,000 for transit technology implementation.  

The funding is part of the Access, Innovation and Collaboration Public Transit Program.

(KNZA)--The former city administrator of Hillsboro, Kansas will serve as interim Hiawatha administrator.

The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved an agreement with Larry Paine to serve in the role until a permanent administrator is hired to replace Mike Nichols, who resigned effective April 6, to take a similar position in North Kansas City, Missouri.

Paine was on hand at Monday's meeting.

He retired in 2020 after serving as Hillsboro City Administrator for 13 years. Prior to that, he served as city administrator in Concordia and Baldwin City.

Paine will work 4 days a week, up to 32 hours per week, and be paid $50 an hour.

He is expected to serve as interim administrator for 4-5 months.

The Commission approved a timetable for the hiring of a new administrator submitted by the League of Kansas Municipalities, which is assisting the city in the search process. Under the timetable, a new administrator would be hired in June. 

The League also submitted a marketing plan for advertising the opening for the commission's review.    

(KAIR)--An Atchison man was arrested following a weekend UTV crash that sent his passenger to the hospital.  

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 45-year-old Eric Molt was arrested Saturday, in the 300 block of Atchison’s South 22nd, for driving under the influence, fleeing and attempting to elude, transporting an open container, reckless driving, and unlawfully operating a utility vehicle in the city limits.  Molt was issued a notice to appear in court.  

According to Wilson, an officer on patrol, around 8:00 Saturday night, “observed a utility side by side vehicle driving recklessly in the area of U.S. [Highway] 73 and Service Road.  The officer attempted to stop the UTV, with the vehicle instead going a short distance before it left the roadway and rolled onto its side.  

A 36-year-old woman who was traveling with Molt in the UTV was transported by Atchison County EMS to Mosaic Life Care, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, for the treatment of unspecified injuries.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Clerk’s Office is preparing for the May 10, 2022 Statewide Primary Election.

Persons wanting to vote in the election are urged to check their voter

registration status to make certain they are registered at the correct address and affiliated with the political party for which they are going to cast their ballot. Voters may check their registration at www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov or by contacting the Richardson County Clerk’s Office at 402-245-2911.

Voter registration is taken at the Office of the Richardson County Clerk during regular business hours until Monday, May 2 at 6:00 p.m. Voters can also register at ne.gov/go/NEreg2vote. The deadline for any voter registration form other than in person is Friday, April 22.

Early Voting in person will begin on Monday, April 11 at the Office of the Richardson County Clerk during regular business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Early voting applications are also available to request that your ballot be mailed to you if you are unable to vote at your regular polling place. An application form can be found in this weeks edition of the Falls City Journal or on the Richardson County website www.co.richardson.ne.us.

Please contact the County Clerk’s Office at 245-2911 if you have further questions or need more information regarding the 2022 Elections.

(Peru, Neb.) – Peru State College will inaugurate Dr. Michael R. Evans as its 34th president on Wednesday, April 20, in the Performing Arts Center on the College’s campus.

The inauguration ceremony will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a reception to follow in the Al Wheeler Activity Center.

Dr. Michael Evans, who began his tenure on July 1, 2021, came to Peru State College from Southern New Hampshire University, where he served six years as the Vice President for Academic Affairs for SNHU’s on-campus program in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Previously, Evans was the Provost at Unity College in Maine and has served as the Interim Dean of the Indiana University School of Journalism, where he also served on the faculty for 15 years. Before his career in higher education, Evans worked for 13 years in the publishing industry.

Evans holds a doctorate in folklore from Indiana University and he focuses his research on expressions of indigenous cultures through the mass media. With the support of a Fulbright Fellowship, he lived for nine months in a small village in the eastern Canadian Arctic, conducting ethnographic fieldwork with Inuit videographers. That project resulted in two published books. He has conducted similar work in the Australian Outback, working with Aboriginal video and radio professionals. He has worked in several Native American nations as well.

Evans will celebrate 40 years of marriage to First Lady Joanna Evans with a trip to Africa following Peru State’s commencement in May. They have twin sons: Dylan, who has a degree in outdoor education from the University of New Hampshire and leads kayak and rafting trips; and Miles, who has engineering degrees from Purdue University and Stanford University and is working as a solar engineering research scientist.

A friend and colleague of Evans, Dr. Greg Kelley, will be the keynote speaker. Kelley holds a Ph.D. in Folklore from Indiana University. The former president of the Hoosier Folklore Society and editor of the journals Folklore Forum and Midwestern Folklore, he also served as the coordinating publisher for Trickster Press. Kelley presently teaches Media Studies at the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto, Canada.

(Peru, Neb.) – Peru State College will inaugurate Dr. Michael R. Evans as its 34th president on Wednesday, April 20, in the Performing Arts Center on the College’s campus.

The inauguration ceremony will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a reception to follow in the Al Wheeler Activity Center.

Dr. Michael Evans, who began his tenure on July 1, 2021, came to Peru State College from Southern New Hampshire University, where he served six years as the Vice President for Academic Affairs for SNHU’s on-campus program in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Previously, Evans was the Provost at Unity College in Maine and has served as the Interim Dean of the Indiana University School of Journalism, where he also served on the faculty for 15 years. Before his career in higher education, Evans worked for 13 years in the publishing industry.

Evans holds a doctorate in folklore from Indiana University and he focuses his research on expressions of indigenous cultures through the mass media. With the support of a Fulbright Fellowship, he lived for nine months in a small village in the eastern Canadian Arctic, conducting ethnographic fieldwork with Inuit videographers. That project resulted in two published books. He has conducted similar work in the Australian Outback, working with Aboriginal video and radio professionals. He has worked in several Native American nations as well.

Evans will celebrate 40 years of marriage to First Lady Joanna Evans with a trip to Africa following Peru State’s commencement in May. They have twin sons: Dylan, who has a degree in outdoor education from the University of New Hampshire and leads kayak and rafting trips; and Miles, who has engineering degrees from Purdue University and Stanford University and is working as a solar engineering research scientist.

A friend and colleague of Evans, Dr. Greg Kelley, will be the keynote speaker. Kelley holds a Ph.D. in Folklore from Indiana University. The former president of the Hoosier Folklore Society and editor of the journals Folklore Forum and Midwestern Folklore, he also served as the coordinating publisher for Trickster Press. Kelley presently teaches Media Studies at the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto, Canada.

(Peru, Neb.) – Peru State College will inaugurate Dr. Michael R. Evans as its 34th president on Wednesday, April 20, in the Performing Arts Center on the College’s campus.

The inauguration ceremony will begin at 4:30 p.m. with a reception to follow in the Al Wheeler Activity Center.

Dr. Michael Evans, who began his tenure on July 1, 2021, came to Peru State College from Southern New Hampshire University, where he served six years as the Vice President for Academic Affairs for SNHU’s on-campus program in Manchester, New Hampshire.

Previously, Evans was the Provost at Unity College in Maine and has served as the Interim Dean of the Indiana University School of Journalism, where he also served on the faculty for 15 years. Before his career in higher education, Evans worked for 13 years in the publishing industry.

Evans holds a doctorate in folklore from Indiana University and he focuses his research on expressions of indigenous cultures through the mass media. With the support of a Fulbright Fellowship, he lived for nine months in a small village in the eastern Canadian Arctic, conducting ethnographic fieldwork with Inuit videographers. That project resulted in two published books. He has conducted similar work in the Australian Outback, working with Aboriginal video and radio professionals. He has worked in several Native American nations as well.

Evans will celebrate 40 years of marriage to First Lady Joanna Evans with a trip to Africa following Peru State’s commencement in May. They have twin sons: Dylan, who has a degree in outdoor education from the University of New Hampshire and leads kayak and rafting trips; and Miles, who has engineering degrees from Purdue University and Stanford University and is working as a solar engineering research scientist.

A friend and colleague of Evans, Dr. Greg Kelley, will be the keynote speaker. Kelley holds a Ph.D. in Folklore from Indiana University. The former president of the Hoosier Folklore Society and editor of the journals Folklore Forum and Midwestern Folklore, he also served as the coordinating publisher for Trickster Press. Kelley presently teaches Media Studies at the University of Guelph-Humber in Toronto, Canada.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty informed County Commissioners during their April 5 meeting that he had met with the Humboldt-Table Rock - Steinauer Board of Education in regards to hiring a school resource officer.

The HTRS Board has proposed funding the position for three days per week. Commissioners indicated the School District would have to contribute to funding five days per week for the County to consider fulfilling the request.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau, Jr. reported that the temporary seasonal part-time employee will return this year. Commissioners approved an hourly wage of $12 per hour.

Darveau also reported the Vogtscapes company which has a contract for a Richardson County bridge project has experienced a fire loss involving a loss of equipment necessary to complete the contract. Darveau suggested an extension to the contract might be considered.

Darveau also said asphalt patching on the hard surfaced road south of Rulo is being done in preparation of the overlay project coming up this summer.

(KLZA)-- During the presentation of the quarterly EDGE report to City Council members in Falls City and Richardson County Commissioners this week, EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl discussed LB-977, a bill in the Nebraska Legislature that could lead to a additional electrical power being provided to Falls City.

Falls City has missed out on several new industries locating in the community because the city is unable to supply enough power to those businesses. Froeschl says the project would create an electrical loop through Falls City that could benefit the region as a whole.

1st District State Senator Julie Slama made LB-977 her priority bill for this legislative session. So far the bill is moving through channels without any Senators voting against the proposal.

Froeschl said that EDGE and the Falls City Utility Board joining together to hire a lobbyist firm to help sway the State Senators was well worth the cost. The lobbyists allowed Falls City to tell its story individually to Senators in a closed door session. He says without the lobbying effort, he does not believe the bill would have proceeded this fal.

If approved, LB-977 would use $15 million from the Cash Reserve Fund to transfer money to the Site and Building

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council heard the annual report from the city's volunteer fire department when they meet last week.

Fire Chief Brett Ohlsen said the department responded to 68 calls last year---including 20 in the city and 48 rural calls. A large percentage of the rural calls were for grass and brush fires.

Seneca firefighters completed a total of more than 880 hours of training last year.

Ohlsen said the department's new rural pumper truck was delivered three weeks ago and has already been used to respond to several fires. It will replace a 2002 truck that will continue to be used in another capacity. The new truck will be used as a back-up city truck and specifically for rural structure fires.

The Council approved a resolution authorizing execution of a 5-year lease-purchase agreement with First Heritage Bank, of Seneca, to pay the about $373,000 cost of the new truck. Under terms of the agreement, five annual payments of $80,654 will be made, with the first payment due in April 2023.

Ohlsen was re-elected as fire chief for 2022 during the department's annual elections in January. Tom Haug was elected as 1st Assistant Chief and Travis Emmons as 2nd Assistant Chief.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth County man is going to prison, sentenced last week in connection with the 2018 death of his girlfriend.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 67-year-old Dan Flannagan was sentenced Friday in Leavenworth County District Court to just one-month shy of 5-years in prison for voluntary manslaughter.

The charge stems from the April 3, 2018 death of Constance Perryman, who lived with Flannagan.

The couple argued on that date, with Thompson saying “Flannagan fired a shotgun multiple times catching the attention of one of his roommates who lived in a trailer on the property.” That roommate saw Flannagan and Perryman outside arguing. Then, after having returned inside, heard another shot and went back outside to investigate, finding Flannagan, standing near where Perryman was last seen, saying thew words “get up.” It was later found that Perryman had wounds from shotgun pellets on her arm and one pellet wound that went under her arm, with that wound striking her heart and killing her.

At sentencing it was noted that Flannagan had virtually no criminal history aside from a few misdemeanors.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man, already jailed in a domestic battery case, is now facing charges in a residential burglary.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 50-year-old Jason Alexander was arrested Friday on a District Court warrant for burglary, theft, and criminal damage to property.

At 6:00 the morning of April 4th police officers responded to a disturbance in the 1900 block of Harper Drive and subsequently arrested Alexander for domestic battery.

During the investigation of the domestic disturbance, Wilson said information was developed that a burglary had occurred several hours earlier at a nearby residence in the 19-hundred block Harper Drive.

Officers went to the residence, where the resident was not home, and determined that forced entry was made into the residence. The resident was later located and it was discovered that various items with a total value of about $3,900 had been stolen--including a lawnmower, a grill, an eagle statue, a tool bag, and other items.

Wilson said many of the items were recovered during the investigation.  

He said Alexander was still in custody on the domestic battery case when he was served on Friday morning with the new charges.  Bond on the new charges was set at $15,000.

(KNZA)---A Mayetta man was seriously injured in a two-vehicle wreck Friday evening on the Kansas Turnpike in Douglas County that claimed the life of another man.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened at the intersection of K-10 and Bob Billings Road shortly after 6:30.

According to the KHP report, 55-year-old Anthony Royal was southbound on K-10 and was exiting to Bob Billings when he failed to stop at the stop sign.  His pickup truck struck an eastbound car driven by 71-year-old John Kirby, of Lawrence.

Kirby was transported to Lawrence Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Royal was transported to Topeka's Stormont Vail Hospital for the treatment of his injuries.

The Patrol said Kirby was wearing a seatbelt, but Royal was not.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man suffered serious injuries after he was struck by a vehicle on Interstate-29 about one mile south of St. Joseph. .

That's according to a report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, which says a pickup truck driven by 40-year-old Joshua Lane crashed after traveling off the west side of I-29 Wednesday morning, with the northbound truck then continuing on in the median.

That's when the Patrol says 57-year-old occupant John Cheatham jumped out of the truck, into the passing lane of the interstate, where he was struck by another vehicle, which fled northbound without stopping.

Cheatham was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in Saint Joseph, for treatment.

Lane, also of Leavenworth, was not injured, although the truck struck a barrier after Cheatham jumped out.

The wreck happened shortly before 9:00 Wednesday morning.

(KAIR)--A riverfront brewery could be coming to Atchison, courtesy of action taken Monday by the Atchison City Commission.

Meanwhile, a development agreement is approved for a proposed, new, multi-family residential development.

That happened Monday, during the regular meeting of the Atchison City Commission. According to the City, the residential development is planned for the corner of Second and Commercial Streets.

According to a release, the agreement approved Monday allows “for city utility investments in water and wastewater connections to help the project get off the ground.” Although construction of the development is not guaranteed, Interim City Manager Justin Pregont, in the release, says it’s hoped the agreement pushes the project forward, but adds “they still have some hurdles to cross before you can consider them a done deal.” Monday’s meeting was the last for Pregont as acting City Manager under the interim title, with the release noting that Pregont’s last official day as a City employee is May 4. However, the release says “there is a possibility of the City working out a contract with Pregont to continue doing economic development and capital project development for the City moving forward.”

(KMZA)--Onaga USD 322 has announced the hiring of a new superintendent.

The USD 322 Board of Education has hired Trevor Ashcraft for the position.

Ashcraft currently serves as the curriculum director and Vermillion principal for USD 380.

He is a 2007 graduate of Holton High School.

Ashcraft was among two candidates interviewed by the USD 322 board.

Ashcraft will take over July 1st, replacing Dan Polk who has served as interim superintendent since the 2020-21 school year.

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

The Kansas Chief reports the Wathena City Council Monday evening accepted the resignation of Scott Hirtler, effective April 14.

In his letter of resignation, Hirtler thanked the mayor and residents of Wathena for the opportunity to serve the community the past two years.

Hirtler has accepted a position with the Buchanan County, Missouri Sheriff's Department.

(KNZA)--A Highland care home will permanently close its doors over the course of the next several months.

Staff and residents at Highland Healthcare and Rehabilitation were recently informed of the plan.

According to a press release, the decision to close the facility was made after careful consideration of the current operational environment and the multi-faceted challenges faced by skilled nursing communities nationwide due to COVID-19 and a difficult staffing environment.

The release says Highland Healthcare, in close coordination with state and local authorities, is implementing a comprehensive plan to ensure all residents will be safely transferred to an alternative facility of their choice after ample opportunities to discuss available options with local case workers and support staff.

In addition, the release says Highland Healthcare is evaluating all options with the goal of placing most of its staff members in open positions at nearby nursing affiliates.

(KLZA)-- In a letter to Richardson County Attorney Doug Merz, Beatrice City Administrator and General Manager Tobias Tempelmeyer said the City of Beatrice is willing to agree to Richardson County's request to terminate an interlocal agreement for dispatching services agreed to in July, 2021, if Richardson County pays the City of Beatrice $300 thousand, in addition to any payments due from Richardson County, until the agreement is formally terminated.

The letter, dated March 8, was discussed during Tuesday's meeting of the Richardson County Commissioners.

The letter states that based on the agreement, the City of Beatrice hired additional staff and incurred additional expenses.

Tempelmeyer said it is his understanding that Sheriff Rick Hardesty is unhappy and noted that on numerous occasions the City has met with members of the Richardson County Board to discuss the issues; however, Sheriff Hardesty has been unwilling to meet, or attend user group meetings.

Under the agreement, Richardson County is to pay the City of Beatrice $180 thousand for the first year of the contract with the amount increasing for each year of the three year agreement.

No action was taken by the Commissioners.

(KNZA)--The Horton City Commission Monday evening approved an ordinance to allow Sunday alcohol sales.

It would allow alcohol to be sold on Sundays from 9 am to 8 pm.

Alcohol sales would not be allowed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day or Christmas Day.

The ordinance must be published once each week for two consecutive weeks in official city newspaper. It would take effect 61 days after the final publication unless a valid protest petition is filed, which would force the issue to a public vote.

City Clerk Kim Knudson told MSC News that the ordinance will be published in The Horton Headlight on April 14 and April 21.

Commissioner Tina Nigh initiated the discussion last month to allow alcohol to be sold on Sunday.

(KLZA)-- More than 225 people, mostly students at Peru State College gathered Monday evening, April 4, to launch Sexual Assault Awareness Month, known as SAAM.

Those gathered signed cards pledging to “create an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported.”

Peru State College President Michael Evans addressed the students along with Student Senate President Alyse Foster.

Percussionist Matthew Leininger from Auburn and President Evans led the crowd on a solemn march around the campus Quad.

Following the march the group attended the opening reception of “What were you wearing? A Survivor Art Installation.” The exhibit provides a tangible response to one of our culture's most pervasive rape myths, curated by Susan Moore, assistant professor of art.

The exhibit is made of clothing ensembles of sexual assault survivors, created by Peru students and staff. The exhibit will remain on view in the AV Larson Art Gallery through April 29, open during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

SAAM events at Peru State College will continue throughout the month.

(KLZA)-- More than 225 people, mostly students at Peru State College gathered Monday evening, April 4, to launch Sexual Assault Awareness Month, known as SAAM.

Those gathered signed cards pledging to “create an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported.”

Peru State College President Michael Evans addressed the students along with Student Senate President Alyse Foster.

Percussionist Matthew Leininger from Auburn and President Evans led the crowd on a solemn march around the campus Quad.

Following the march the group attended the opening reception of “What were you wearing? A Survivor Art Installation.” The exhibit provides a tangible response to one of our culture's most pervasive rape myths, curated by Susan Moore, assistant professor of art.

The exhibit is made of clothing ensembles of sexual assault survivors, created by Peru students and staff. The exhibit will remain on view in the AV Larson Art Gallery through April 29, open during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

SAAM events at Peru State College will continue throughout the month.

(KLZA)-- More than 225 people, mostly students at Peru State College gathered Monday evening, April 4, to launch Sexual Assault Awareness Month, known as SAAM.

Those gathered signed cards pledging to “create an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported.”

Peru State College President Michael Evans addressed the students along with Student Senate President Alyse Foster.

Percussionist Matthew Leininger from Auburn and President Evans led the crowd on a solemn march around the campus Quad.

Following the march the group attended the opening reception of “What were you wearing? A Survivor Art Installation.” The exhibit provides a tangible response to one of our culture's most pervasive rape myths, curated by Susan Moore, assistant professor of art.

The exhibit is made of clothing ensembles of sexual assault survivors, created by Peru students and staff. The exhibit will remain on view in the AV Larson Art Gallery through April 29, open during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

SAAM events at Peru State College will continue throughout the month.

(KLZA)-- More than 225 people, mostly students at Peru State College gathered Monday evening, April 4, to launch Sexual Assault Awareness Month, known as SAAM.

Those gathered signed cards pledging to “create an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported.”

Peru State College President Michael Evans addressed the students along with Student Senate President Alyse Foster.

Percussionist Matthew Leininger from Auburn and President Evans led the crowd on a solemn march around the campus Quad.

Following the march the group attended the opening reception of “What were you wearing? A Survivor Art Installation.” The exhibit provides a tangible response to one of our culture's most pervasive rape myths, curated by Susan Moore, assistant professor of art.

The exhibit is made of clothing ensembles of sexual assault survivors, created by Peru students and staff. The exhibit will remain on view in the AV Larson Art Gallery through April 29, open during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

SAAM events at Peru State College will continue throughout the month.

(KLZA)-- A single vehicle wreck on Route N, approximately one mile north of Mound City Wednesday afternoon sent a Mound City teenager to the Fairfax Hospital.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports 18-year-old Courteney Gordon was southbound on Route N and her car left the roadway, striking a ditch and the striking a tree.

Gordon was transported to the Fairfax Hospital by the Atchison-Holt Ambulance Squad with what were described as minor injuries. She was wearing a safety device at the time of the wreck.

The car Gordon was driving was totaled in the wreck.

(KNZA)--A St. John, Indiana man escaped injury late Wednesday afternoon after his small plane crashed while he was landing at the Sabetha Municipal Airport.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 57-year-old James Vacracos was attempting to land his 1967 Piper Arrow aircraft on the runway when the front landing gear collapsed, causing his plane to collide off the runway.

Vacracos was the lone occupant on board the aircraft.

The crash was reported shortly before 4:30 Wednesday afternoon.

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is alerting county residents of another scam circulating in the area.

Merchant said residents are being contacted by someone representing themselves as being from Evergy.

The caller is stating residents are behind on their utility bill and if payment is not made with 30 minutes, their electricity will be shut off.

Merchant said Evergy representatives said they have had many reports of this scam and the call is not coming from their company.

He suggest residents hang up immediately if they receive such a call.

If you feel you have been a victim of this scam, notify your local law enforcement immediately.          

(KLZA)-- A Pawnee City Elementary School teacher has been reinstated following a suspension.

The Pawnee City School Board met in special session Tuesday beginning at 5:00 p.m. The meeting which included a public hearing and an executive session continued for approximately 12 hours, ending early Wednesday morning.

A large crowd attended the meeting with new business items on the agenda including a public hearing to consider the cancellation or continuation of the employment of third grade teacher Scott Brumbaugh; deliberation on the proposed cancellation of Brumbaugh's employment contract and action on whether or not to continue or cancel the contract.

The suspension reportedly stemmed from a disciplinary action involving Brumbaugh and a student.

Following the public hearing Pawnee City School Board members entered an executive session to discuss the matter.

At the conclusion of the closed session, the regular meeting resumed and Board member Terry Borcher made a motion to adopt the terms for cancellation of Brumbaugh's employment contract. Board member John Hunzeker seconded the motion.

Voting in favor of the motion to cancel the contract were Board members Borcher, John Hunzeker and Lisa Hunzeker. Voting against the motion were Board members Hope Koester, Mary Moser and Jason Vetrovsky.

Superintendent Brian Rottinghaus told MSC News it requires four votes to cancel an employment contract with the 3 – 3 tie meaning Brumbaugh is reinstated as a third grade teacher with the Pawnee City School District.

(KLZA)-- A Missouri man who was temporarily residing in Nebraska City has been sentenced in U.S. District Court in Omaha for distribution of child pornography.

Chief U.S. District Judge Rober Rossiter, Jr. sentenced 26-year-old Charles Ryan Croney to 100 months in prison and ordered him to pay $36 thousand in restitution. Once he completes the prison term, Croney will begin a 7-year term of supervised probation.

On January 1, 2020 Croney uploaded two images of child pornography to an online chat group. On January 30, 2020, a federal search warrant was executed at his Nebraska City residence. Agents obtained Croney's cellular phone and located about 400 images of child pornography. Additional child pornography was discovered during a search of Croney's online Discord account.

The case was investigated by the Sarpy County Sheriff's Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

LINCOLN – The Judicial Nominating Commission for the District Judge in the First Judicial District, consisting of Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson, Saline, and Thayer counties, provided the following three names for the Governor’s consideration: David J. A. Bargen, Adams; Zachary L. Blackman, Lincoln; and Shaylene M. Smith, Crete.

The primary place of office for the judicial vacancy is Saline County, Wilber, Nebraska.  The vacancy is due to the retirement of Judge Vicky L. Johnson.

(KLZA)-- There were several contested races in Northwest Missouri for Tuesday's General Election.

Mound City voters have elected former Alderman Duane Nauman to serve as Mayor. Nauman defeated incumbent Joe Laukamper 87 – 40 on Tuesday.

Incumbent James Krueger retained his position as South Ward Alderman in Mound City receiving 32 votes to the 15 ballots cast for challenger Wes Coffey.

Mound City voters also voted 88-38 in favor of continuing the 30-cent per $100 of assessed valuation for general purposes including street lights for another four-year period.

In Tarkio Mark Staten won the race for Mayor, 113 – 82 over incumbent Timothy Morehouse.

Rock Port voters elected Kory Paris to the position of North Ward Alderman.

Paris received 45 votes while incumbent Todd Stevens received 32.

Crystal Woodring and Chance Clement were elected to the Fairfax School Board. Both will be new to the Board.

Elected to the Nodaway-Holt R-VII School Board by voters in Nodaway and Holt counties were Andrew Lance and Ryan Medsker. Lance received 143 votes, Medsker 141 and incumbent Haily Randall received 117 votes. Meagan Morrow also received 79 votes.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is going to prison, sentenced in Atchison County District Court on ten counts in three separate cases.   

According to a release from Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker, Dewayne Martin was sentenced last week to 7 years and 3 months in prison.

Martin was sentenced on charges of  possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, two counts of felony fleeing or eluding law enforcement, four counts of felony burglary, two counts of felony theft, and one count of theft of a firearm.  

The three cases, leading to the charges, were all filed in early 2019, with the pandemic delaying proceedings.  

Martin, in January, entered guilty pleas to each of the charges.

(KNZA)--The aging Brown County Courthouse elevator will be renovated.

Brown County Commission Chairman Lamar Shoemaker on Monday signed a revised contract with MEI-Total Elevator Solutions to perform the work at a cost of $103,110.

The current elevator was installed in 1980.

Bids were opened at the Commission's March 28 meeting from two companies.

Also Monday, Brown County Clerk Dawn Boyles discussed estimates received for the power washing of the exterior of the courthouse. No action was taken. Boyles will submit the quotes to County Attorney Kevin Hill for review.

(KLZA)-- At the end of last week the Nebraska Legislature passed 1st District State Senator Julie Slama's Priority Bill, LB 977 on first round.

If approved, the bill would appropriate $15 million for Falls City to secure an added power supply to the community.

In her weekly update Senator Slama says Falls City has almost everything going for it to make it the perfect site to grow Nebraska's economy which includes a ready site with access to rail, gas, fast broadband and a large workforce within commuting distance. Statistics show Falls City has a higher population within 100 miles than anywhere else in the state.

Senator Slama has been working with Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, which has secured options on more than 1,000 acres of land situated next to both the Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Union Pacific rail lines. However, the site continues to lose out on potential prospects because of the communities inability to secure redundant and resilient access to power.

As amended, LB 977 would use $15 million from the Cash Reserve Fund and transfer the money to the Site and Building Development Fund for expanding electrical system capacities and enhancing redundancy and resilience which is greatly needed.

The Senator says she is ecstatic that LB 977 passed through the first round of debate and is excited to get the bill passed this year.

(KMZA)--Presidio Brass, a five-member brass ensemble from San Diego, Calif., is returning to Marshall County this week for a three-day artist residency.

The musicians will work with students in all four of Marshall County’s high schools, they will give a free concert in Vermillion and they will perform with the Marshall County Community Big Band at the Marshall County Canteen Big Band Swing and Dance.

Their residency is sponsored by the Marshall County Arts Cooperative.

Working in the schools and interacting with students are important to the professional musicians.

"Presidio Brass believes in the power of music education,” said Josh Bledsoe, one of the group’s trombone players.  “Music education inspires young people to experience the emotional growth music provides, the enjoyment of learning and the power of community that making music can bring. Presidio started as a vehicle for arts education and we continue that mission everywhere we go because we believe in the intrinsic value of music and its power." 

Local educators are excited to have the top-notch musicians and educators lead workshops with their students.

"To the kids these guys are like rock stars,” said Jamie Minneman, band teacher in the Marysville schools. “For me, as the teacher, I am grateful for the opportunity for the kids to hear great tone and to see how a lot of hard work can really pay off."

Presidio Brass will work with students in Marysville and Valley Heights Thursday.  They will lead workshops in Axtell and Frankfort Friday.

In addition to their work in the schools they will give a public concert “... And All That Brass!” Thursday, April 7, at 7 p.m. in the Vermillion Community Center, 106 West 3rd Street.  Admission is free.  The concert features Broadway show tunes from “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Chicago,” “Candide, “The Wizard of Oz” and “West Side Story.”

“Be prepared to laugh, to laugh some more, to be moved, to stomp your feet, to smile and to have the best night of your life,” Bledsoe said.

During intermission, members of the Friends of Vermillion committee will serve coffee and homemade pie.  A freewill donation will be taken.

The group’s residency concludes with a performance at the Marshall County Canteen Big Band Swing and Dance Friday, April 8, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Venue 36, Marysville.

The brass ensemble will play songs from the Great American Songbook with members of the Marshall County Community Big Band.

“It’s like a USO show,” said Sally Oliver, a board member for the arts cooperative.  “There will be a dance floor so people can dance to these wonderful songs.”

The Marshall County Community Band will get everyone in the mood with a 30-minute set at 6:30 p.m.

At 7 p.m. local dancers will be on the dance floor to offer informal ballroom dance lessons.

The dance floor will fill at 7:30 p.m. when members of Presidio Brass and the Marshall County Community Big Band perform songs from the Great American Songbook until 10 p.m.

Tickets are $10.  Veterans, active military and their spouses are admitted free to the event; however, they need to pick up a free ticket.

Free tickets may be picked up or tickets may be purchased at CJ Express East and West, Marysville; CJ Express, Frankfort; MSC Boutique, Waterville; and Galloway, Wiegers and Brinegary, Marysville and Seneca.

Parking attendants will be available to direct traffic at Venue 36; parking for anyone with special needs will be close to the main entrance.    

For more information people may call or text the arts cooperative at 785-859-4260.

(KLZA)-- Following an explanation of what is contained in the Fiscal Year Audit for the Fiscal Year ending in September, 2021 the Falls City Council approved the report Monday night.

Julie Bauman, CPA said the City received an unqualified opinion which is the best a city can receive.

The City had total assets at the end of the last fiscal year of just over $63 million with liabilities of just over $15 million leaving a net position of $48,033,252.

Bauman said her firm was pleased with how well the City did. She said when the City is able to build reserve funds, there is a purpose for that because there are times when those reserves are needed.

The Council also voted to proceed with refunding 2017 series utility bonds which will allow the city to save approximately $147 thousand unless rates continue to climb. During an earlier meeting with Brad Slaughter with Piper Sandler and Company the savings was potentially in the neighborhood of 6 – 7 percent but with the recent change in rates that savings has now declined to 3 – 3.5 percent.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission on Monday heard about possible uses for $1.8 million allocated to the county from the American Rescue Plan Act approved by Congress last year.

Scot Loyd and Carlotta Sunderland with the accounting firm, Loyd Group, meet with the Commission to discuss the matter.

The county has until the end of 2024 to spend the federal funding.

In other business, county resident Lucas Heinen presented commissioners with a list of 125 Brown County residents opposed to the development of wind energy projects in the county.

Commissioners have not taken a stand either in support or against the development of wind energy projects in the county.

Commissioners last week approved an engagement letter with a Wichita attorney with expertise on wind energy issues to provide advice on both sides of the issue.

(KNZA)--A Horton woman and a 10-year-old boy were killed, and another boy was seriously injured, in a two-vehicle wreck Tuesday morning in Brown County. 

The Kansas Highway Patrol said it happened shortly before 7:00 at the intersection of 170th and Goldfinch Road, about a 1/2 mile southwest of Powhattan.

According to the KHP report, a Chevy Silverado pickup truck driven by 55-year-old Rodney Lierz, of rural Powhattan, was westbound on 170th Road when he struck the passenger side of a northbound Hyundai Elantra on Goldfinch Road driven by 34-year-old Darliss Whitebird, of Horton.

Whitebird and a passenger in her vehicle, 10-year-old Herbert Whitebird, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Another passenger in her vehicle, 8-year-old Ralph Simon, of Horton, was transported to Hiawatha's Amberwell Hospital and later transferred by helicopter to Children's Mercy Hospital, in Kansas City, with suspected serious injuries.

Lierz was transported to Amberwell Hospital for the treatment of possible minor injuries.

The Patrol says all the occupants were properly restrained when the wreck occurred.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha City Commissioner Becky Shamburg is running for the position of mayor.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reports Shamburg filed Monday for the position, which is currently held by Bill Collins.

She is the first candidate to file for the mayor's position.

Shamburg currently serves as Commissioner of Streets and Parks.

Besides mayor, also up for election this November on the Hiawatha City Commission is the position of Commissioner of Finance, which is currently held by David Middendorf.

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

The general election will be held November 8.

(KLZA)-- Johnson County District Court Judge Rick Schreiner sentenced Tecumseh State Correctional Institute inmate Tyler Simmonds to an additional 10 – 15 years in prison on a count of assault in the second-degree on Monday.

According to a release from Deputy Johnson County Attorney Benjamin Beethe, the 28-year-old Simmonds is already serving four years on charges out of Douglas and Lancaster counties including attempted 1st degree assault, felony shoplifting and misdemeanor assault.

The new sentence, which will run consecutively to the sentences Simmonds is already serving,  is for an October, 2020 assault on TSCI caseworker Becky Bohling.

(KLZA)-- Tuesday is General Election Day across Missouri.

Polls will open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.

There are three contested races in Holt County.

Joe Laukamper is seeking reelection as Mayor of Mound City and is challenged by former Alderman Duane Nauman.

There is also a South Ward Alderman race in Mound City. Incumbent James Krueger is challenged by Wes Coffey.

There are four candidates for two spots on the Nodaway-Holt School Board. Haily Randall seeks reelection to the Board while Megan Morrow, Andrew Lance and Ryan Stewart Medsker have also filed.

Mound City voters will also decide on a 30-cent per $100 of assessed valuation increase on the the levy for general purposes including street lights for a four-year period. A two-thirds majority will be required to renew the levy which must be voted on every four years.

Atchison County, Missouri voters have several contested races Tuesday.

Kory Paris and Todd Stevens are running for North Ward Alderman in Rock Port.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles recently released a new version of the state Driver’s Manual. The Driver’s Manual is a detailed guide of all the basic principles and rules of the road that all drivers should know.

The manual is available in English and Spanish and with audio online for free on the Nebraska DMV’s website, dmv.nebraska.gov, where it can be accessed on the home page.

Because laws can change from one edition to the next, all drivers should become familiar with the information in the latest manual. The manual is also essential for teenagers and young adults learning to drive for the first time. All young drivers must pass a written test to get a permit or full driver’s license. Answers to the written test questions are found within the Driver’s Manual.

A link to the English version of the manual can be found on the homepage of the Nebraska DMV’s website, dmv.nebraska.gov. Other versions can be found at dmv.nebraska.gov/manuals, along with manuals on other important subjects, such as motorcycles and commercial driver’s licenses.

For those who cannot access the manual on the DMV website, printed copies can be obtained by contacting the Driver Licensing Services division at 402-471-3861.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced this year’s recipients under the Civic and Community Center Financing Fund.

Eight communities, including Pawnee City, will receive a portion of the $1,233,415 up for award, representing five Planning and three Capital Construction Projects.

This funding supports the development of civic, community and recreation centers. Buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places that are intended for conversion, rehabilitation or reuse are also eligible under the program.

The program is funded through a turn-back of 30% of State sales tax generated by arenas and nearby retailers. Due to the impact of COVID-19 on these venues, the amount available for award for 2022 was less than usual.

This year’s award recipients include The City of Pawnee City in the Civic and Community Center Financing Fund Capital Construction category.

Pawnee City will received $75,000 to use for the Cornerstone Community Building construction project.

(KAIR)--The burglary of an Atchison funeral home is under investigation.

That’s revealed in a release issued Monday by Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson.
According to the release, the crime happened sometime Friday night, with the burglar, or burglars, targeting the Becker-Dyer-Stanton Funeral Home, located at 800 Kansas Avenue, with forced entry made through a door.

According to Wilson, cash and coins were taken during the burglary, with the loss estimated at more than $700, with $600 taken in cash, $163 in coins, as well as several checks.

Wilson told MSC News, investigators are following several leads as the investigation continues.

(KAIR)--An Open Community Forum is planned for Monday regarding a survey launched online by the Atchison Public Schools of USD 409.

According to a release from Superintendent Dr. Renee Nugent, the school district is receiving Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief funds, known as ESSER, which will be used “to execute learning initiatives for all K-12 students.”

According to the release, the survey and forum stem from the Kansas Department of Education requiring “all school districts to develop plans based on three guiding principles, the short-and long-term needs of the district, consultation from stakeholder groups, and evidence-based interventions.”

The release says all staff, students, families, and community partners may provide feedback through the ESSERS Feedback Survey, that is now posted online.

According to the release, “the information garnered from the survey results will help the District focus on the high-priority areas for ESSERS spending.”

The Community Forum is set for Monday morning at 7:15 in the Board of Education Meeting Room, located at 626 Commercial Street, in Atchison.

(KLZA)-- Leslie Clark has been hired as the new Executive Director of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

Clark began her duties this week.

Clark serves as President of the Auburn Development Council Board and will serve another three-year term on the Board of Directors. In addition, she is the director of the Auburn Arts and Events and serves as secretary on the Auburn Memorial Library Board.

(KLZA)-- Leslie Clark has been hired as the new Executive Director of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

Clark began her duties this week.

Clark serves as President of the Auburn Development Council Board and will serve another three-year term on the Board of Directors. In addition, she is the director of the Auburn Arts and Events and serves as secretary on the Auburn Memorial Library Board.

(KLZA)-- April 1 and 2 are the dates for the Household Hazardous Waste collection events in Southeast Nebraska.

The items that will be accepted during the events include cleaning products, lawn and garden chemicals, paint, used oil, florescent light bulbs and other hazardous household items.

Items for disposal should be brought in disposable containers no larger than 5 gallons or 50 pounds.

Farm chemicals will not be accepted and no tires, appliances, science lat chemicals or items that contain asbestos, wood preservatives, PCB's, explosives or commercial quantities will be accepted.

The collection site personnel may reject any materials. A five dollar donation per household is requested to help keep the collection events continue in the future.

Collection times include:

Friday – April 1: 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at the Pawnee County Shop, located at 342 5th Street in Pawnee City.

2:30 p.m. - 4 p.m. at the Falls City Fire Department at 1820 Towle Street.

Saturday – April 2: 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. in Auburn at the Auburn Rodeo Arena parking lot near Optimist Lake.

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at the Johnson County Shop at 813, North 1st Street in Tecumseh.

Anyone with questions may call the Five Rivers RC&D at 402-239-2409.

(MSC News)--Legislative forums are planned Saturday morning ( April 2) in Atchison and Holton.

In Atchison, the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce will hold a Legislative Coffee, beginning at 8:30, at the Santa Fe Depot located at 200 South 10th Street.

Representative Dr. John Eplee will be on hand to provide an update on what's happening in the Kansas Legislature and answer questions.

The public is invited to attend.

In Holton, the legislative forum will take place in the meeting room on the first floor of the Jackson County Courthouse, beginning at 9:00.

Scheduled to attend are Representatives Francis Awerkamp and Randy Garber, along with Senator Dennis Pyle.

They will provide a recap of this year's legislative happenings and answer questions.

Coffee, doughnuts and bottled water will be provide.

The public is invited to attend.

(KNZA)--Royal Valley Middle School Principal Heather Hundley has resigned.  

The USD 337 Board of Education accepted her resignation when they meet Monday evening.  

The registration is effective at the end of the current school year.  

Hundley has served as principal the past four years.  

Prior to joining Royal Valley, she served as the assistant principal and curriculum director at Holton Elementary School.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission on Thursday approved a revised engagement letter with a Wichita attorney with expertise on wind energy issues.

County Clerk Dawn Boyles presented the letter from attorney Patrick Hughes, of the Adams Jones Law firm, to the commission for their consideration.

County Attorney Kevin Hill discussed the letter with the commission.

Commissioners have not taken a stand either in support or opposition to the development of wind energy projects in the county, and are seeking advice on both sides of the issue.

Commissioner Bill Pollock said he believes the commission needs to do their homework.

Boyles will contact Hughes about attending the Commission's April 18 meeting via Zoom.

(KNZA)--A woman died following an early Thursday morning single-vehicle Buchanan County, Missouri crash about two miles north of Faucett.  

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says 56-year-old Tawny Moran, of Agency, Missouri, was eastbound on Route H when she failed to stop at the stop sign at the intersection of Route A.  Her SUV continued through the intersection and traveled off the right side of the road.  The vehicle became airborne, struck the ground, then continued through a bean field where it traveled over a field terrace, became airborne again, and landed on its wheels before coming to a stop.  

Moran, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, where she later died.  

The wreck was report just after 4:30 Thursday morning.