(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man has been charged with alleged sex and drug offenses.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill filed a criminal complaint Tuesday in Brown County District Court charging 48-year-old Jeremy Stover with eight counts--including three felony counts of promoting the sale of sexual relations, three misdemeanor counts of sexual battery, a felony count of distribution of opiate and a misdemeanor count of possession of a depressant drug ( Lorazepam).

Stover, who serves as President and CEO of Hiawatha-based Freedom Hospice, made his first appearance in a Brown County courtroom Tuesday afternoon on the charges.

He was arrested Saturday night following an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, said the arrest followed the execution of multiple search warrants over the weekend involving digital media and social media platforms.

Merchant said many hours were spent by the sheriff's office and Brown County attorney on the investigation, which remains ongoing.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for March 8.

Atchison attorney John Kurth was appointed by the court to represent Stover.

Stover remains free on a $50,000 bond

(KAIR)--One of three Chevrolet pickup trucks, stolen while parked in Atchison, has been recovered while police continue to search for the whereabouts of the other two that remain missing.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was reported to his office as stolen from the 800 block of South 6th Street sometime between February 16 and February 20. On Sunday, the truck was found, recovered by the Buchanan County, Missouri Sheriff- Department on SW 56 Road, near State Route 116. A suspect for the theft is not immediately identified.

Meanwhile, a 1991, black, Chevrolet Silverado was reported stolen to police, apparently driven from where it had been parked in an alley located in the 1300 block of Kansas Avenue. It- believed the truck was stolen shortly before 11:30 Friday night.

The other missing truck, a 1984, brown, Chevrolet S-10, was stolen from a parking lot in the 300 block of Atchison- Main Street sometime Saturday evening.

Anyone with information on any of the stolen truck cases should contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KAIR)--The arraignment for a man accused of murdering two children in 2020 has been continued. That word comes in a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, who says the continuance was granted Friday when Donald Jackson Jr. appeared in the Leavenworth County District courtroom with his death penalty panel attorneys.

Judge Gerald Kuckelman granted the defense- request for a continuance for arraignment until June 7, with the State agreeing to the need for a continuance “due to an expert needing to finish an analysis.”

Judge Kuckelman additionally granted Defense motions regarding an in camera, or private, review of records and their motion for transcripts for all hearings.

According to Thompson, Jackson is charge with the Capitol murder of two children born in 2006 and 2008.

The alleged premeditated killing took place October 24, 2020.

(KAIR)--A district court warrant arrest for criminal damage to property leads to additional, drug related charges for an Atchison man.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 34-year-old Alan Kendrick was arrested early Thursday morning, around 1:00, in the 800 block of River Road. He was taken into custody on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with criminal damage to property.

However, Wilson said that as Kendrick was being placed into custody, officers discovered that he was in possession of what- alleged to be methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, and he additionally faces charges for that drug-related offense.

Following his arrest, Kendrick was booked into the Atchison County Jail.
He has since been released on a $10,000 bond.

(KLZA)-- The Interstate 29, northbound bridge over the Nishnabotna River will close Wednesday, March 6, for a joint repair.

Crews from Phillips Hardy, Inc., working with the Missouri Department of Transportation, are completing the repair following a rehabilitation project of the north and southbound bridges located just south of the Iowa state line.

During the northbound bridge closure, crossovers will be utilized to direct traffic head-to-head in the southbound lanes of Interstate 29 at the bridges. A 15-foot width restriction will be in place for northbound traffic. The joint repair is expected to be completed in early May.

This bridge, along with the southbound bridge, is included in Gov. Mike Parson- $351 million Focus on Bridges program, which will repair or replace 250 bridges across the state.

(KNZA)--A Brown County traffic stop early Sunday morning led to the arrest of a Highland man on drug charges.

According to a report from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, a sheriff's deputy stopped a vehicle in the vicinity of 250th and Prairie Roads around 3:15.

Based on the traffic stop, 40-year-old Zach Brown was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. In addition, Brown was arrested on a felony parole violation.

Following his arrest, he was booked into the Brown County Jail

(KNZA)--Holton City Manager Kerwin McKee has announced his upcoming retirement.

The Holton Recorder reports McKee formally announced at last week's Holton City Commission meeting that he plans to retire, effective May 1.

McKee has worked for the city since 1996 and has served as city manager since July 2016.

He initially began work as the city's code enforcement officer and served two stints at interim city manager before being named city manager.

(KMZA)--A six percent cost-of-living raise has been approved for Nemaha County employees.

The Nemaha County Commission approved the raise during a special meeting last week.

The raise was effective February 21.

Commissioners also discussed changes they would like to make to the county's sick leave and vacation leave policies. Following discussion, the Commission voted to change the sick leave policy to state that any sick leave accrued after February 20 will not be eligible to be cashed out by the employee and state that there will now be a cap of 320 hours on the amount of sick leave an employee can accumulate.

Discussion was held concerning the payout for those employees with more than 320 hours of sick leave currently in their sick leave bank. Commissioners plan to further discuss the issue once more information is provided to them concerning the number of sick hours each employee currently has.

At their February 13 meeting, Kiley Floyd and Mike Stallbaumer with the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital met with commissioners to discuss buying property from the county needed for the hospital's remodeling and addition project. After two motions died due to the lack of a second, the commission approved a motion for the sale of property to the hospital for $5,000, with the county paying for closing costs and title work necessary.

(KLZA)-- Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol Tech Crimes Unit have arrested a Falls City man after a child exploitation investigation.

In July 2022, NSP received information regarding a child exploitation incident. Following an investigation, Matthew J. Timothy, 36, was arrested by NSP Monday morning for possession and distribution of child pornography.

Timothy was lodged in Richardson County Jail.

The investigation remains ongoing.

(KNZA)--Three Sioux Falls, South Dakota residents were arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop in Brown County last week.

According to a report from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, a sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop around 8:00 Thursday evening in the vicinity of 5th Avenue West and 15th Street, in Horton.

Merchant said Brown County K-9 Carla indicated on the vehicle and an investigation followed.

Based on the investigation, 23-year-old John Whipple, 39-year-old Eric Cournoyer and 56-year-old Brad Langland were arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

About 6 grams of meth, pipes, gaggies, needles, syringes and marijuana was seized as evidence.

Following their arrest, the trio were booked into the Brown County Jail.

The Horton Police Department and Sac and Fox Tribal Police assisted.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska First District State Senator Julie Slama reviewed bills she has introduced this session and their status in her weekly update.

LB 2122 which proposes expanding Highway 75 to four lanes from Plattsmouth south to the Kansas border and pave all gravel state highways is scheduled for a hearing on Tuesday.

Slama is hoping LB 535, her voter implementation bill will advance from committee in the next few week. She is hopeful the bill would lead to a compromise adding another layer of election security.

Senator Slama's LB 66 to legalize ATV and UTV usage on county roads remains in the Transportation and Telecommunications Committee. This bill is one of the Senators personal priorities for the session.

LB 213 focuses on rural economic development and workforce housing for Nebraska's smallest towns and villages. Slama hopes the bill would spark growth in all rural communities.

Slama says in this weeks report that some far-left liberals are wasting time to block bills that are important do District One, and that she will not be playing into the Democrat's delay tactics and will remain focused on the issues most important to her constituents. .

(KLZA)-- During the February 21 meeting of the City Council in Falls City, Administrator Anthony Nussbaum updated the Council on a number of topics.

Nussbaum says Excel Development has informed the City that they have received confirmation of additional funding for a third addition of duplexes on the north edge of Falls City. He noted meetings will be occurring and that the City had previously agreed to cover a portion of the street costs for the development.

It was also noted in the report that Building Inspector Blake Buckminster, is looking into the feasibility of amending the city code to allow tine homes. The City has received multiple requests for tine homes from citizens and individuals looking to develop lots.

Falls City has also received confirmation of the awarding of a $50 thousand grant to be used for a new Police SSV Cruiser that is currently being built at the factory. The total purchase price is $67 thousand. The grant application was approved by the Council in October of last year.

Nussbaum also noted the 2023 municipal improvement bonds have been finalized and the City received the payment of $3 million which was the balance of the funding needed to complete the 2023 Electrical Infrastructure Improvement project.

The crankshaft has been installed on electrical generator #5 at the City Power Plant. The 1951 engine can generate about 12 percent of the watts needed to power the city. The repair work should be completed in March.

Nussbaum also reported the City is working with EDGE on a plan to renovate the Rivoli Theater building as a performance venue. Mitch Glaeser is the owner of the building and has provided verbal notice that he would enter into an agreement to provide the city the space at no cost.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the One and Six Year Road Plan following a public hearing on February 21.

During the hearing, Robert Storant requested a bridge on 707 Road be included on the plan since it affects about five landowners who have an interest in the bridge being replaced in the future.

Gayle Swisegood spoke about the condition of 706 Road which calls for improvements to be made. Swisegood said there are driveways entrances on the road that don't meet standards and that water drains from the driveways onto the roadway causing damage to the road.

Commissioners also approved a backup plan for the county computer server suggested by Joe Buckminster with buckIT, who performs IT services for the County. The Board approved the purchase of equipment and system at a cost of $3,152 per month.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty updated the Board on medical services for jail inmates. He presented a letter from Community Medical Center in Falls City regarding continued health care service they will provide. CMC is drafting a new proposal which will be completed in a few weeks.

The Board also approved a resolution to change the number of deputies to be appointed by the Sheriff, eliminating one full-time lieutenant and changing the sergeants from one to two.

(KMZA)--Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, in Seneca, has announced it has been recognized as a 2023 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital. Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, this annual recognition program honors outstanding performance among the nation's rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX™.

“This award is recognition of our commitment to patient care in Nemaha County. We are proud to share the successes of our staff and celebrate their continued focus on our Mission, Vision, and Values,” said Kiley Floyd, NVCH CEO. “I am incredibly proud of the work we have done to ensure that the communities we serve are given the opportunity to have access to quality, compassionate and professional health care.”

“Across the nation, top 100 rural providers continue to serve as a source of inspiration for hospital leadership teams and staff working diligently every day to improve the delivery of care within their local communities,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader, the Chartis Center for Rural Health. “The list of award winners in each category is as geographically diverse as we’ve seen in some time, which is wonderful to see. We’re thrilled to be able to honor the outstanding efforts of these top performing rural hospitals.”

Now in its 13th year, the INDEX has established itself as the industry's most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is trusted by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations and state offices of rural health across the country to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

(KNZA)--An active shooter training exercise was held at the Royal Valley High School in Hoyt on Saturday.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said the event was hosted by the Sheriff- Office, Jackson County Emergency Management and the Royal Valley School District.

He said area public safety agencies were invited to participate in the training exercise.

The Hoyt Fire Department, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Fire Department, Jackson County EMS, Jackson County Sheriff- Office, Hoyt Police Department, Prairie Band Potawatomi Police Department and other public safety agencies took part in the exercise.

In addition, Royal Valley School District staff and students also participated.

All three Jackson County Superintendents were present during the exercise.

Sheriff Morse said, “I am very proud of our students, staff and administration along with our county- public safety personnel to take the time and dedication to make this event happen. School safety and security has to be a community- top priority. Our greatest asset is our children, and we should all be doing everything we possibly can to make them safe at school. I would also like to thank Deputy Joe Romans who has spent countless hours assessing the security needs for every school in our county and providing the needed training for our school personnel and students. This training event wouldn’t have been a success, or have taken place, if it were not for his dedicated service.”

(KAIR)--A Wednesday night disturbance at a north-side Atchison residence sent a man to jail, facing charges related to what police describe as a violent altercation with two women.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says 22-year-old Dwayne Nixon was arrested Wednesday night, in the 1400 block of Unity Street, for aggravated domestic battery, aggravated assault, domestic battery and possession of marijuana.

The arrest came after Police were called to that location, shortly after 11:00 Wednesday night, following a report of the disturbance.

According to Wilson, it- alleged that Nixon struck both victims with his hands, and choked one who he also threatened with a knife.

Wilson told MSC News neither of the two women required medical care.

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

Nixon, and his two victims, all resided together at the Unity Street address at the time of the disturbance.

(KAIR)--A Medical Director has been named for a new rehabilitation hospital set to open next month in Elwood.

According to a release, Dr. Beth Shelton is selected to serve as Medical Director of ClearSky Rehabilitation Hospital of Elwood-Saint Joseph, located in Elwood, Kansas, west of Saint Joseph, Missouri.

The hospital will provide services to patients with disabling injuries or illnesses such as strokes, brain injuries, hip fractures, spinal injuries, Parkinson- disease, multiple sclerosis, or other medically-complex conditions such as COVID-19.

Shelton, the release says, “will lead ClearSky Elwood-St. Joseph- interdisciplinary healthcare team, providing services that include physical, occupational, and speech therapy; rehabilitative nursing; case management; respiratory therapy; dietary services; and other specialized care.”

Shelton, board certified in medicine and rehabilitation, is a Fellow of the Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation who has served as an integrated rehabilitation consultant to acute inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and long-term care facilities. She also has been the medical director of an inpatient rehabilitation unit and of a physical medicine rehabilitation outpatient clinic. Earlier in her career before pursuing medicine, she was a senior research analyst and a senior lab technician at the University of Kentucky in a Biochemistry Research laboratory.

The rehabilitation hospital will open in March.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board in a special meeting Thursday evening voted to move forward with a project to refurbish the high school gymnasium bleachers.

The Board approved a bid from Heartland Seating for a total of $361,620, with funding to come from the capital outlay fund.

The project will automate the bleachers to pull out instead of a manual hand crank, as well as make them ADA accessible. In addition, the existing plywood decking will be removed and new decking installed on all sections.

Next the board discussed the option of having a polyurethane finish added to the bleachers to add to the look and life of them. It was discussed whether they would go out to bid locally or accept a bid that Heartland Seating presented.

The board decided although they like to give local vendors an opportunity to bid projects for the district, that in this case due to the time crunch, it needed to to be done by Heartland Seating as well to avoid any issues with having multiple vendors on a project.

Heartland Seating presented two options. The board approved an option that would add three coats of polyurethane finish to the bleachers at a cost of $79,783.

The project is expected to begin right after graduation and be completed by the second week of September at the latest.

(KLZA)-- A Forest City, Missouri man suffered what were described as moderate injuries in a single vehicle wreck east of Stewartsville, Missouri, on US 36 Highway early Friday morning.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports 48-year-old Daniel Streu was westbound on Highway 36 at approximately 1:15 A.M. when his Mercury Mariner traveled off the south side of the road, into the median and struck a sign and a ditch, then returned to the roadway and came to a stop at the next crossover.

Streu was transported by the DeKalb County EMS to Cameron Regional Medical Center for treatment of his injuries.

There was extensive damage to the vehicle. The DeKalb County Sheriff's Department also responded to the call.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved by a narrow margin awarding a contract for a fireworks display in conjunction with the 2023 Hot Air Balloon Festival to be held in June when they met Tuesday evening.

The City received bids from two companies for displays that will cost $15 thousand and $20 thousand. The point of contention was using money from city economic development funds to pay for the display.

Second Ward Council person Kaylie Ractliffe was critical of the proposal. Ractliffe said “for a Mayor who campaigned during the election that the city spends a lot of money, asking taxpayers to spend up to 20 thousand unbudgeted dollars of economic development funds, on fireworks, that essentially no one but the Mayor is asking for, is extremely disrespectful to taxpayers.”

Mayor Mark Harkendorff said he had heard only positive feedback on the proposal.

The other Second Ward Council member, Joe Buckminster supported the proposal, noting that he has received a lot of comments from people wishing a fireworks display would be brought back to Falls City. He said while a lot of money goes up in a hurry for fireworks, it brings people together, and allows Falls City residents who can't afford to go out of town to watch displays to see the show.

The Council voted 4 - 2 with one abstention and Council member Derrick Leyden absent to contract with Jesse Kimme from Everest, Kansas for $15 thousand to provide the fireworks display.

Casting nay votes were Council member Ractliffe and Jim Wisdom.

(KMZA)-- The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of Corning public water supply system located in Nemaha County.

The advisory was issued Tuesday because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system.  Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

KDHE said Friday that laboratory testing samples collected from the City of Corning indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed to be resolved.  

(KLZA)-- A pavement improvement and flood remediation project on Holt County, Missouri, U.S. Route 159 is expected to resume Monday, Feb. 27.

The Missouri Department of Transportation has contracted with Phillips Hardy, Inc., to complete the project. Crews began the project in May 2022 before pausing due to winter weather.

As a flood remediation measure, erosion control is being installed from the Missouri River near Rulo, to the Little Tarkio Creek near Fortescue. During construction, temporary traffic signals will be in place to guide motorists through the one-lane work zone, starting east of Del Rio Road going west in approximately 1-mile sections. All work is expected to be completed in November 2023.

This project also includes pavement improvements from Missouri Route 111 one mile west of Route 118 to Route 118 which is planned to begin in July.

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

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education approved renewal of High School Principal Jake Shipman and Elementary / Middle School Principal Emily Petersen's two year contracts when they met Tuesday. Salaries will be taken up at a later date.

The Board also approved hiring Tedra Prussman for the ACES Behavioral Interventionist Position for the 2023-24 school year, and the resignation of Abby Wilmes at the end of the current school year.

Superintendent Korey Miles discussed Open Enrollment which he described as gaining traction in the Missouri House and discussed House Bill 715 and Senate Bill 8, both of which could impact local tax dollars which impact funding for public school districts.

Superintendent Miles also discussed the option of moving away from Valedictorian/Salutatorian and into an Honors System in which specific requirement can be met toward Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude and Cum Laude, allowing more students to be rewarded and recognized for their hard work and involvement in the school district. The Board is expected to vote on the change during their March meeting.

(KAIR)--No injuries were incurred despite a reported explosion that left an Atchison home destroyed.

According to a release from Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, fire fighters were called to 312 South 21st Street, around 11:17 Thursday night, with multiple reports received regarding a house explosion.

Weishaar, in the release, says fire fighters, upon arrival, found heavy flames coming from the one-story home. They also reported hearing explosions coming from the rear, walk-out basement area of the house, with Weishaar saying that “early reports indicate there were propane cylinders in the basement.”

The home was occupied by one person, but Weishaar says it- unclear if that resident, who refused medical evaluation by first responders, was inside the home at the time of the explosion. The resident was assisted by the Atchison Salvation Army, which is providing temporary lodging, and transportation, at a local hotel.

Weishaar says “the house sustained heavy damage beyond repair and will most likely require emergency demolition as soon as possible.”

According to Weishaar, Atchison fire fighters remained on the scene through the night, with an investigator arriving Friday “to begin searching for a cause of the incident.”

The Atchison Police Department, and Atchison City Crews, assisted at the scene.

(KMZA)--The 41th annual Baileyville Benefit will be held Saturday and Sunday at the Nemaha Central High School in Seneca.

It will include basketball and volleyball tournaments, along with a live, silent and online auction of donated items. The online auction began February 18 and and runs through Saturday afternoon at 2:00.

New this year will be a corn hole tournament on Sunday at the Nemaha Central Elementary/Middle School. Registration will be at 10 am, with the tournament beginning at 11:00. The entry fee is $25 a person.

Proceeds from this year's event will go to help four individuals with medical expenses—Shea Mueting, Teagan Lueger, Cole Strathman and Chuck Kling.

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

(KLZA)--Pawnee County Commissioners conducted a public hearing on the One and Six Year Road Plan when they met Tuesday. There was no public comment.

Following a discussion about the plan with Highway Superintendent Chris Rauner the Board approved a resolution for the One and Six Year plan.

Rauner also discussed various projects and equipment with the Board. Bids were reviewed for bridge inspections with the bid awarded to MEI which submitted the low bid of $9,750 for routine inspections and $13,500 for fracture critical inspections totaling $23,500.

Mainelli and Wagner submitted a bid with a total price of $31,215.

In other business the Board and Rauner met with Carl Jabobson of Summit Farms to discuss a commercial swine development project and review maps of the roads that will be used for the projects. No action was taken.

Commissioners also approved an Interlocal agreement with the City of Pawnee City regarding the kenneling of animals.

(KNZA)--A project at the Doniphan County Law Enforcement Center moves forward.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, the Doniphan County Commission voted Tuesday to accept the low bid received from Lee Grover Construction, of St. Joseph, for the relocation of the hot water heating system in the amount of $217,986.

The Commission took the action on the recommendation of consulting engineers Lankford, Fendler and Associates, of Overland Park. It was among three bids opened last week.

The project entails removal and replacement of the existing hot water heating system from the main floor of the building to the basement level.

In other business, the commission voted to enter into an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation for the replacement of a bridge on 195th Road about two miles east of Troy.

KDOT accepted a low bid from B &B Bridge Company, of St. Paul, Kansas, for the project in the amount of $820,203.

Federal funding through KDOT's Off-System Bridge Replacement Program will pay for 80 percent of the project costs. The county will be responsible for 20 percent of the total project costs--including engineering--or $180,445.

(KAIR)--A dream of several years for service organization Reinvent Horton and local area veterans is set to become a reality.

That- according to a release from Reinvent Horton announcing the construction of a Veterans Park and Museum in the Brown County city.

To make the project possible, the release explains that bricks, engraved to honor veterans by commemorating their service to the country, will be available for purchase, and will be placed in the Veterans Park, at 841 Central, near the location of the newly designated Veterans Memorial Museum.

The bricks, which carry a price tag of $75 each, will be a fundraiser to help build and maintain the Veterans Park and Veterans Museum. Each brick can be personalized with up to three lines of 20 characters each, including spaces.

According to the release, bricks will be installed throughout the current year, with a goal set to dedicate, and celebrate, the Museum and Park on Veterans Day 2023, which will be commemorated Saturday, November 11.

The release clarifies that veterans and their families do not need to reside in Horton in order to purchase a brick.

Application for the bricks will be ready for pickup March 1.

if you have questions, or wish to assist the effort through volunteer support, contact Connie Werner at 785-548-5500 or McKenna Boller Simon at 785-741-5590.

(KAIR)--A rural Atchison County home is considered a total loss following a fire that required response from several area volunteer fire departments Monday afternoon.

Ryan Hermreck is the Fire Chief for Atchison County Rural Volunteer Fire District #5 of Lancaster and Huron. He told MSC News the fire occurred a mile and a half north of Lancaster, on Jewell Road, with his team called to that location shortly before 2:00 Monday afternoon.

Additional crews also arrived to assist with battling the fire, with the Fire Departments from Effingham, Everest, and Horton all providing support.

According to Hermreck, his department remained on the scene until 6:00 Monday evening, with the single family dwelling considered a total loss.

A cause of the fire is not immediately specified.

No injuries are reported following Monday- blaze.

(KLZA)--Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that agricultural producers and private landowners can begin applying for the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) General signup starting February 27 through April 7, 2023. CRP is a cornerstone voluntary conservation program offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and a key tool in the effort to address climate change and help agricultural communities invest in the long-term well-being of their land and natural resources.

Producers and landowners enrolled more than 5 million acres into CRP through signups in 2022, building on the acceptance of more than 3.1 million acres in the largest Grassland CRP signup in history. There are currently 23 million acres enrolled in CRP, with 1.9 million set to expire this year. USDA- Farm Service Agency (FSA) is aiming to reach the 27-million-acre cap statutorily set for fiscal year 2023.

To learn more, visit usda.gov.

(KLZA)--The Board of Trustees at Peru State College has voted to create an endowment for the Al Wheeler, Jr. Distinguished Chair in Environmental Management, Policy, and Sustainability. Dr. Al Wheeler, Jr., provided a generous gift that made the position possible. It will be the first endowed chair in the Nebraska State College system. The search for the inaugural holder is currently in process.

Dr. Wheeler approached Peru State College in the summer of 2022 with an idea for a degree program bringing an environmental perspective into the planning process for students to help businesses, farms, cities, and towns meet their long-term goals. This idea developed into the “Environmental Management, Policy, and Sustainability” (EMPS) program, which will be the first in Nebraska with that title. The program will also make Peru State College the only public institution in Nebraska to offer an undergraduate major focusing on environmental sustainability.

The inaugural holder of the Wheeler Distinguished Chair position will develop the new EMPS degree program and teach a normal load within the program, including as many sections of the new “Earth and its Biodiversity” course as feasible. Other duties will include creating and leading significant student-engagement experiences related to the EMPS program. One such experience that the new Chair will be encouraged to develop will be an optional two-or-three-week research experience at UNL- Cedar Point Biological station or similar field station.

The EMPS degree will prepare Peru State students to view real-world environmental problems through the lenses of policy and management and apply that view to various career fields. Sustainability careers will remain in demand as industries continue emphasizing environmental consciousness and sustainability goals.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7,800 openings for environmental scientists and specialists each year, on average, over the next decade.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska USDA Farm Service Agency is reminding producers of the availability of two programs announced by USDA earlier this year that wrap-up and fill remaining gaps in previous natural disaster and pandemic assistance.

The Emergency Relief Program (ERP) Phase 2 and the 2020 Pandemic Assistance Revenue Program (PARP) are revenue-based assistance programs, and producers who are interested in applying will need to use information from their tax documents or other personal financial records as part of the application process.

The application period is open now through June 2, 2023.

Nebraska FSA is coordinating with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Center for Agricultural Profitability for an educational webinar on these two programs. It is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. CT on Thursday, March 2. Registration for the webinar is free and can be found at cap.unl.edu/webinars. FSA officials also briefly will highlight other disaster assistance programs during this webinar, including those designed to address the ongoing drought.

To be eligible for ERP Phase Two, producers must have suffered a decrease in allowable gross revenue in 2020 or 2021 due to necessary expenses related to losses of eligible crops from a qualifying natural disaster event. 

To be eligible for PARP, an agricultural producer must have been in the business of farming during at least part of the 2020 calendar year and had a 15 percent or greater decrease in allowable gross revenue for the 2020 calendar year, as compared to either 2018 or 2019, whichever year the producer selects to use as the baseline year.

     For more information, producers should contact their local USDA service center or reference the ERP Phase Two Fact Sheet, PARP Fact Sheet or the ERP Phase Two-PARP Comparison Fact Sheet.

(KMZA)--The Brown County Commission has approved additional repairs to the courthouse elevator, which has been out of service since late November.

In a special meeting last Friday, the commission discussed needed repairs to finish replacement of the elevator jack with representatives of MEI-Total Elevator Solutions and ADCO Drilling, who joined the meeting by phone conference.

It was explained that the hole for the jack is collapsing. A new hole will have to be drilled and a larger casing put in order to install the jack.

MEI will need one mechanic to assist the driller while they are on site. The work, which is to begin February 23, is expected to take 6 to 9 days.

Following discussion, the Commission voted to declare an emergency exist and to accept a quote from ADCO to re-drill the hole in the amount of $62,266. That will allow the commission to bypass the standard required bid letting process so the repair can be completed without delay.

The commission then approved a work order from MEI for $23,760, and authorizing one Saturday of overtime pay at a rate of $518 an hour, if necessary.

MEI was awarded a more than $100,000 contract last year for modernization of the elevator, which was installed in 1980. The company began work on the project November 29.

In December, commissioners were told the elevator jack, which wasn't part of the project, would need to be replaced at a cost of more than $88,000.

Commissioners are seeking approval from the Loyd Group to utilize ARPA funding for the entire modernization, drilling and elevator repair project.

(KMZA)--Information is being sought on a vandalism incident in Onaga.

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff- Office took a report Tuesday of graffiti painted on the Onaga Historical Society building at 302 East 2nd Street.

It is believed to have occurred sometime between February 11th and February 21st.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Rowdy Gates at the Pottawatomie County Sheriff- Office at 785-457-3353, or leave a tip on the Sheriff's Office Crime-Stoppers link at ptsheriff.com.

(KLZA)-- The City of Falls City has announced that refunds for the overbilling of the Power Cost Adjustment have been made to customer accounts.

A total of $411,753 is being issued back to city utility customers due to the billing error. $170,435 has been refunded to residential customers and $221,205 has been refunded to commercial customers.

In addition, a total of $21,913 is included in the refund for sales tax or penalties associated with the PCA billing line item.

The refund has been issued as a credit, and is reflected on each custoemrs March utility bill.

The refund is posted and viewable for those with online accounts. For paper billing customers the refund will be detailed on your next monthly paper bill.

For those on level pay, your monthly level payments were unaffected and the billing error will be detailed in your billing history to reflect the correct usage and cost for future level pay calculations.

(KLZA)-- Peru State College has been ranked as one of the nation- best colleges for online master- programs in business. Just six percent of regionally accredited postsecondary institutions earned a ranking position.

Peru State College was recognized as one of the best schools for online learning at the master- level by OnlineMastersDegrees.org. Peru State- business programs earned top honors for overall quality, affordability, and commitment to student success.

Top-ranked schools also had competitive tuition rates and/or scholarships to help drive costs down. And with grocery, gas, and other expenses on everyone- mind right now, an affordable master- is key.

OnlineMastersDegrees.org analyzed more than 7,700 accredited universities by using data pulled from the schools themselves and from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System.

To be eligible for ranking, a university must hold active regional accreditation and have at least one partially online master- program in the ranking subject. Just 8 percent of U.S. postsecondary institutions earned a ranking position.

(KAIR)--February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans, and the role they’ve played in American History.

The Atchison Public Schools of USD 409 has used the month as way to provide related information in the classroom.

According to a release from the school district, the Atchison Middle School commemorated the month- start by hosting a so-called Book Tasting for all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade classes.

According to the release, a Book Tasting involves students sampling multiple books and finding ones that suit their tastes.

The tasting featured 12 middle grade award winning black authors.

As an example of those works utilized in the exercise, the release notes that New Kid by Jerry Craft and The Door of No Return by Kwame Alexander were favorites of the students who took part in the Book Tasting.

(KAIR)--Atchison Police are seeking the identity of whoever is to blame for committing the burglary of two cars last weekend, only to have their ill gotten gains left behind when the crime was interrupted.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, forced entry was made into two vehicles that were parked in the 2600 block of Industrial Road shortly before 8:30 Sunday morning.

Taken from the two vehicles were tools and miscellaneous items that were later recovered, near the burglary scene, by police. According to Wilson, that- because the suspect took off when a person happened upon the area where the two vehicles were parked, leaving the suspect to abandon the items in order to escape.

The investigation is continuing, and anyone with information related to the crime is asked to call Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KNZA)--Services have been set for a former Holton man who was killed in a car-pedestrian accident earlier this week in Topeka.

Topeka Police say 57-year-old Dennis Hower was struck by a vehicle as he was walking just after 6:30 Sunday evening at the intersection of Southwest 19th Street and Southwest Gage Blvd.

He was transported by ambulance to a Topeka hospital, where he later died.

The accident remains under investigation.

Hower was a 1984 graduate of Holton High School.

Services for Hower will be held Monday morning at 10:30 at the Mercer Funeral Home, in Holton.

Among survivors are three siblings.

(KNZA)--Services have been set for a former Holton man who was killed in a car-pedestrian accident earlier this week in Topeka.

Topeka Police say 57-year-old Dennis Hower was struck by a vehicle as he was walking just after 6:30 Sunday evening at the intersection of Southwest 19th Street and Southwest Gage Blvd.

He was transported by ambulance to a Topeka hospital, where he later died.

The accident remains under investigation.

Hower was a 1984 graduate of Holton High School.

Services for Hower will be held Monday morning at 10:30 at the Mercer Funeral Home, in Holton.

Among survivors are three siblings.

(MSC News)--Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach is asking CVS to follow Walgreens’ lead regarding the dispensing of abortion medication in the state.

After receiving a letter from Kobach outlining Kansas law, Walgreens agreed not to dispense Mifepristone within the state of Kansas and not to mail the medical abortion pill into the state.

CVS and Walgreens are among a handful of pharmaceutical retailers that recently announced they would provide abortifacients through their mail-order pharmacies.

Kansas law requires that a physician be present in the room when administering the medical abortion pill, and federal law makes it illegal to knowingly mail any drug intended to produce an abortion.

Kobach sent the letter to Walgreens and another one to CVS on the heels of a Biden administration opinion that attempts to rewrite federal law to allow the mail-order dispensing of medical abortions.

After receiving their letter earlier this month, Walgreens announced it does not intend to dispense Mifepristone in Kansas stores nor does the pharmacy intend to mail the drug to Kansas.

(KMZA)-- The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Corning public water supply system located in Nemaha County.

The advisory was issued Tuesday because of a line break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system. KDHE says failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

• Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.

• Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.

• If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.

• Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.

• Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785 868 2653, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE- PWS Consumer Information webpage: kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption.

(KAIR)--A car, reported stolen outside the local area, has been recovered in Atchison County.

A release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie explains that the 2011, gray Buick Lacrosse had been reported stolen from Shawnee County, Kansas on Sunday.

On Monday, Atchison County Deputies responded to the area of 8863 Pawnee Road, in rural Atchison County, following the report of a possibly stolen vehicle parked in a field.

The vehicle was processed by deputies for the Shawnee County Sheriff- Office, and it was towed from the scene.

No suspects are immediately developed.

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) - Governor Mike Parson Tuesday ordered the U.S. and Missouri flags to be flown at half-staff at all government buildings in Cass, Clay, Jackson, and Platte counties on Wednesday, February 22, to honor Kansas City Police Department Officer James M. Muhlbauer and K-9 Champ. The Kansas City Police Department serves portions of the four counties, and Officer Muhlbauer and K-9 Champ had worked in all four.

“Officer James Muhlbauer devoted his life to protecting the residents of Kansas City, and for 20 years, he excelled in his chosen profession, putting service to his community at the forefront of all he did,” Governor Parson said. “For the last year, Officer Muhlbauer and K-9 Champ worked as inseparable partners and guardians of the community. They died senselessly, but we will forever remember their contributions to the betterment of Kansas City and Missouri.”

On February 15, Officer Muhlbauer and K-9 Champ were on duty with the Kansas City Police Department when a speeding motorist struck the police vehicle they were in, fatally injuring Officer Muhlbauer and K-9 Champ.

Officer Muhlbauer, 42, entered the Kansas City Regional Police Academy in December 2002 and was commissioned as a Kansas City police officer on June 27, 2003. In 2014, he was responsible for the arrest of a notorious killer who was convicted of murdering five people.

Police K-9 Champ was trained in Houston, Texas, and began working for KCPD on January 20, 2022, when Champ was assigned to partner with Officer Muhlbauer. K-9 Champ was certified as a dual purpose narcotics and patrol canine from the National Police Canine Association.

The flags will be held at half-staff on the day Officer Muhlbauer is laid to rest. To view the proclamation, please click here.

(KNZA)--A welfare check in the city of Everest leads to the arrest of four Brown County residents on drug charges.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, dispatchers received a call last Friday afternoon for a welfare check at 337 South 4th Street, in Everest.

Upon arrival at the residence, a deputy recognized an individual in the yard who had active warrants.

The deputy made contact with 38-year-old Brent Rezabek, of Hiawatha, who had four outstanding Brown County warrants. Rezabek was also arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

After the arrest of Rezabek, Merchant said deputies made contact at the residence and determined that probable cause existed for application of a search warrant. With assistance from the Brown County attorney, a search warrant was obtained.

The Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force served the search warrant. During the search, needles, syringes, meth, marijuana, grinders and pipes were seized. Following the search, three additional individuals were arrested.

37-year-old Crystal Duvall, of Everest, were arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and 3 counts of child endangerment.

37-year-old Laura Barnhart, of Everest was arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia and 3 counts of child endangerment.

In addition, 50-year-old Michael Ballman, of Horton was arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia and three counts of child endangerment.

Merchant said three juveniles were placed in police protective custody.

Duvall, Barnhart and Ballman were all released from the Brown County Jail Sunday on OR bonds, while Rezabek remains in custody.

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

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

Honored as " Business of the Year" was The Hiawatha Creamery.

The Brown County Humane Society was recognized as the " Organization of the Year."

The " Volunteer of the Year" award went to Jeff May.

HCVB President Katie Miller provided a recap of the organization's activities.

She said 2022 brought about an uptick in social media--not just for the Chamber but for individual businesses as well. Miller said the Chamber recently launched into a social media "Fall in Love With Hiawatha" campaign, highlighting businesses and community locations that bring in visitors.

Miller said they have also seen an uptick in membership. She said they have added some new events and are working on new community partnerships

Miller said they want to continue growing the Maple Leaf Festival and are looking into grants to bring more things to Hiawatha.

The meeting had a Mardi Gras theme with a Cajun menu provided by Rogue Street Tacos. Those attending participated in a special murder mystery game presented by the Morrill Public Library.

(KNZA)--An April 18 preliminary hearing has been set for a Kansas City, Missouri man charged in a head-on collision last November in Jefferson County that claimed the life of a Kansas Air National Guard airman.

According to court documents, that happened during a status hearing last week in Jefferson County District Court for 35-year-old Manuel Enriquez.

Enriquez is charged with a felony count of involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. He is also charged with a misdemeanor count of DUI.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports Enriquez was driving a pickup truck on U.S. 24 Highway on November 12 when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with a car driven by 23-year-old Cheyanne Branson, of Diana, Texas.

Branson was pronounced dead at the scene. Enriquez was not hurt.

The Kansas Air National Guard said Branson served as a career development specialist with the Topeka-based 190th Air Refueling Wing for more than four years.

Enriquez remains free on a $150,000 bond.

(KLZA)--NioCorp Developments has announced that it has executed a contract with Zachry Group to develop a cost for the surface facilities associated with NioCorp's Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project in southeast Nebraska. The contract represents the first phase of engineering, procurement, and construction contracting for the $1.2 billion Project.

NioCorp had previously selected Zachry as its EPC firm for the Project's surface facilities. Zachry is widely recognized as one of the world's leading turnkey engineering, construction, maintenance, turnaround, and fabrication companies. Zachry serves companies in the energy, chemicals, power, manufacturing, and industrial sectors.

“We are very pleased to take this important next step with Zachry as it positions NioCorp to advance to a construction start following receipt of sufficient project financing," said Mark Smith, Chairman and CEO of NioCorp. "Zachry is a highly respected company with an excellent track record of success in large projects such as ours, and I am pleased to continue our partnership with Zachry as we work together to bring the Elk Creek Project to commercial reality."

Scott Honan, NioCorp's Chief Operating Officer, added: “Zachry has a large craft workforce and a strong presence in Nebraska. Together with our long relationship with the Zachry team, this makes for a great fit with the Elk Creek Project. Having spent time at Zachry- offices and multiple project sites, I am confident that Zachry can execute their scope of work on our Project in a safe, timely, and cost-effective manner.”

“We are excited to work with NioCorp to support the development of critical minerals that will help the United States transition to a lower-carbon economy,” said Ralph Biediger, EPC President, Zachry Group. “We look forward to bringing our decades of EPC experience to bear on this vitally important project and continuing our long-term presence in Nebraska.”

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Board of Education approved the low bids submitted for upgrades to the Vocational Ag Building when they met February 13. ESSER funds will be used to pay for the upgrades which include electrical and lighting, the HVAC system, welding and air pollution control and windows.

The total cost of the upgrades amounts to $412,861.

The Board approved a proposal from Apptegy to provide district web-hosting, social media posting and messaging at a cost of $14,010. Esser funds will also be used pay for this project.

The Pawnee City School District will continue its membership in the Nebraska Association of School Boards during the 2023-24 school year at a cost of $3,720.

In other business the Board approved the use of just over $84 thousand from the Education Foundation for various scholarships.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson County Central School Board has voted to go forward with a bond initiative for a new Pre-K - 12 school construction project in June or July of this year.

During their February Board meeting the Board reviewed the most recent conceptual plan presented by Clark and Enersen Architects and Boyd Jones the Construction Manager at Risk. Superintendent Jon Rother will also work with bond underwriter DA Davidson.

In May of 2022, District voters turned down a $43,375 million bond proposal by 103 votes. Otoe County voters withing the JCC School District voted against the proposal by 109 votes.

The new plans have cut out the auxiliary gymnasium proposed in the 2022 plan, however, patrons that cast a yes vote for the bond, can then vote on a secondary option on the ballot, which would allow for the auxiliary gym to be built if approved by voters.

Meetings will be held soon in communities making up the JCC School District for patrons to receive more information.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Education approved the hiring of two new administrators for the 2023-24 school year when they met February 13.

Samantha Wehenkel will serve as director of school improvement and curriculum. Wehenkel will take over for Suzanne Whisler who is retiring. She is currently the assistant special education coordinator. Wehenkel's salary will be $75 thousand.

Board members also approved a contract for Bristol Wenzl to be the new Calvert Elementary School principal. Wenzl taught at the Calvert Elementary School in Auburn prior to acceping a job as pre-kindergarten - fifth grade principal at Weeping Water. Wenzl's salary will be $98 thousand. She will replace Breanne Poston who is moving out of the area.

In other action the Board approved the negotiated agreement with the Auburn Education Association, setting the base salary for new teachers at $37,550 for the 2023-24 school year. That is an increase of $850 from the current agreement.

(KNZA)--The Horton City Commission has approved a new employee recognition program, which includes longevity bonuses and kudos awards.

The action came at the commission's February 6 meeting.

According to the meeting minutes, taxes will be paid so the employee will receive the actual amount of the bonus.

Employees will be recognized during a commission meeting.

In other business, the commission approved a 48-month lease purchase agreement for the purchase of a new truck for the fire department.

The commission voted to accept a quote from GN Bank for a lease option with a 4.66 fixed rate to finance the purchase of 2002 GMC truck at cost of $49,000. Bids were received from two banks.

City Administrator John Calhoon informed commissioners that Nick Dowell was hired as the new city recreation coordinator and began his position February 1. Under a memorandum of understanding with USD 430, it had to be a school employee. Since its a new program, Calhoon recommended that Dowell hold a community meeting at the high school auditorium to clarify with parents what his intentions are.

(KNZA)--Sabetha Community Hospital announced it has been recognized as a 2023 Top 100 Critical Access Hospital. Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, this annual recognition program honors outstanding performance among the nation- rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX™.

“It is certainly an honor to be named one of the nation- top Critical Access Hospitals for the 6th consecutive year. It is a testament to the people that work in the Sabetha Community Hospital system, at all levels. These caring individuals continue to demonstrate their passion for making this an outstanding place to receive medical care. It has become apparent that the staff at Sabetha Community Hospital will not settle for mediocrity. I am honored to work with such talented and dedicated people that continue to go the extra mile while caring for anyone needing healthcare. Awards such as this serve as affirmation that our team has overcome many of the challenges that we have faced. It has also been apparent that our staff is not satisfied and will always look for ways to improve experiences, and outcomes, for the citizens of Northeast Kansas, said Dr. James Longabaugh, CEO.

“Across the nation, top 100 rural providers continue to serve as a source of inspiration for hospital leadership teams and staff working diligently every day to improve the delivery of care within their local communities,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader, the Chartis Center for Rural Health. “The list of award winners in each category is as geographically diverse as we’ve seen in some time, which is wonderful to see. We’re thrilled to be able to honor the outstanding efforts of these top performing rural hospitals.”

Now in its 13th year, the INDEX has established itself as the industry- most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. Leveraging publicly available data, the INDEX is trusted by rural hospitals, health systems with rural affiliates, hospital associations and state offices of rural health across the country to measure and monitor performance across a variety of areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

(KAIR)--Anonymous feedback will remain in place as part of the newly revamped Atchison County website.

The decision follows a reassessment of the issue by County Commission Chair Casey Quinn and discussion regarding the matter at this week- meeting of the Atchison County Commission.

The revamped website came online earlier this month, complete with the ability to provide anonymous input for the County leaders. Quinn, following receipt of anonymous feedback that she initially deemed abuse of the platform “in an inappropriate manner,” had planned to push to see it removed.

However, Quinn Tuesday told her fellow Commissioners that input provided by her 3rd District constituents led to a change of mind.

2nd District Commissioner Eric Noll said that while he does not believe each submission should be read aloud during the Commission- public meeting, he does see it as a useful tool for receiving feedback.

1st District County Commissioner, Dr. Allen Reavis, spoke in opposition to keeping anonymity in place.

Following further discussion regarding the Citizen Anonymous Feedback Form, it was decided by Quinn and Noll, despite Reavis’ opposition, to keep the form in place, but make the change that only County Commissioners, and no other employees of the County, receive the forms.
The decision was made on consensus, with no vote needed to keep the form in place.

(KAIR)--Thursday's icy roads are blamed for a three vehicle, Jefferson County crash that left three with possible injuries.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, two vehicles, one driven by 78-year-old James Meredith, of Berryton, Kansas and the other driven by 20-year-old Jacob Keane, of Perry, were both westbound on U.S. Highway 24, just east of Barton Road, when Meredith lost control of his Ford F150 on the icy road, causing it to crash into Keane's Saturn car, which ran off the roadway to the left, into the center median, where it overturned on it's side, while crashing into a Dodge Challenger, driven by 41-year-old Teresa Leonard, of Perry. The Challenger had slid off the roadway and was stopped in the center median prior to the crash, with Leonard outside the vehicle at the time it was hit.

Meredith's pickup, meanwhile, ran off the roadway and crashed into the north ditch before overturning several times.

A pedestrian at the scene, 53-year-old Brian Shea, of Perry, suffered a possible injury, complaining of pain, but was not transported. The Patrol says Shea had stopped to assist Leonard.

Meredith was transported to Topeka's Stormont Vail for the treatment of a possible injury. His two passengers escaped unhurt. Keane was also taken to the Topeka hospital with a possible injury.

Seatbelts were being worn by the drivers, according to KHP, at the time the wreck, which occurred around 9:40 Thursday morning.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2012 Ford F-450 diesel pickup from the Federal Surplus Center when they met February 14.

The pickup has 18,642 miles on it and the cost was $49,900.

The Board approved two purchase orders for the Sheriff's Department. The first was for a Stalker Radar system at a cost of $5,990. $2,400 of the cost will be covered by a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation and Highway Safety, with the County paying $3,590. An in-car video DVR with recording and extended warranties were purchased from Brite Upstate Wholesale Supply in an amount of $4598 of which $3449 will be paid by the Nebraska Department of Transportation and Highway Safety Office with the county contributing $1,150.

Commissioners also voted to rescind approval given previously for a purchase order presented January 24 for similar equipment in an amount of $5,731.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported that a settlement report from Big Iron for the sale of surplus vehicles revealed that the 2017 Dodge Charger Police Sedan had collapsed and will be put on the next Big Iron sale on March 8.

The Sheriff also reported that three more AED units had been received through grant funding.

The Sheriff and Commissioners discussed the purchase of two, 2022 Ford patrol units at a cost of $38,863 each, which is to be paid for through awarded USDA grant funds.

Commissioners will review the matter further during their February 21 meeting.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education approved the resignations, effective at the end of the current school year of three teachers when they met Monday night.

High School mathematics teacher, Joan Albury, 6th Grade teacher Chelsey Sullivan and instrumental music teacher Nathan Novak all submitted resignations.

The Board also approved the school calendar for the 2023-24 school year with the first day for students set for August 16 and the last day of the school year on May 17, 2024.

Board members also participated in a presentation conducted by Motorola Solutions and Kidwell representatives on the Avigilon Access Control System, which is a security system providing a complete set of security solutions which will help the District create an enhanced safe and secure environment and protect students, staff and faculty.

The proposed cost of the access control security system is $137,475 and will be scheduled for installation in all four of the district's school buildings this coming summer.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — An 18-year-old northeast Kansas man is facing charges after a crash that killed a Kansas City, Missouri, police officer, a pedestrian and the officer's K-9 police dog.

The Jackson County, Missouri Prosecutor's office said Friday that Jerron Allen Lightfoot, of Tonganoxie, is charged with two counts of involuntary manslaughter.

They allege Lightfoot was speeding and ran red light before he crashed into a patrol car driven by officer James Muhlbauer Wednesday night.

The officer, a pedestrian and Muhlbauer's K-9 partner, Champ, died.

Lightfoot suffered minor injuries.

Court records indicate Muhlbauer had a green light when he drove through an intersection before Lightfoot's car collided with the patrol car.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph woman was injured Thursday afternoon in single-vehicle Buchanan County, Missouri wreck.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 31-year-old Ashley Murphy was northbound on Interstate-29 in St. Joseph when her car traveled off the roadway into the median and struck an embankment.

Murphy, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported by ambulance Mosiac Life Care, in St Joseph, with suspected minor injuries.

The wreck was reported shortly after 4:00 Thursday afternoon.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council Wednesday evening approved a resolution determining the advisability of issuing nearly $2.9 million in hospital revenue bonds to help fund an expansion and renovation project planned by Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

The action followed a hearing drawing no public comment.

The hospital plans to use USDA Rural Development financing for a majority of the project.

Some of the project's funding, which totals nearly $33 million, will be used to refund more than $6.3 million of outstanding hospital revenue bonds issued in 2008 and 2015.

Hospital CEO Kiley Floyd said they hope to break ground by the end of April. She said construction is anticipated to take 24 months and will be done in three phases so at no time is any one department completely shut down.

The hospital last November requested the city issue hospital revenue bonds for the project.

Unlike a general obligation bond, the city would have no liability for the hospital revenue bond issue and it won't count against the city's debt limit.

(MSC News)--Flags are flying at half-staff across Kansas following an order by Governor Laura Kelly to lower the flags in remembrance of the more than 10,000 Kansans who have died due to COVID-19.

Kelly, Thursday, announced that flags are to fly at half-staff for both the victims and their families.

Flags will remain at half-staff through sundown Friday.

The latest check of coronavirus data from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, indicates that 932,200 active cases remain in the state.

10,029 have died in Kansas due to the pandemic.

(KNZA)-- Proposed major improvements to the high school gym seating was a major topic of discussion when the Hiawatha School Board met Monday evening.

Maintenance Director Chris Morey discussed a quote he received from Heartland Seating to refurbish the bleachers in the high school gymnasium.

It would make the bleachers ADA accessible as well as automate them to pull out instead of a manual hand crank. Some seating would be lost due to the ADA compliance. The capacity would go from about 1,500 people to 1,300.

Board President Ian Schuetz said that while the bleachers were out and being refurbished he would like to see a coat of polyurethane put on the bleachers to provide protection and a nicer look to them.

The board agreed. Morey will get information regarding that for a future meeting.

In other business, the board approved the calendar for next school year.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser reviewed the proposed 2023-24 calendar with the board, which is mostly consistent with last year's calendar. The only change is there would be no school on the Monday after Easter

The first day of school will be August 17, and the last day will be May 21.

Schuetz brought up looking at potentially seeing if the opening day of deer season could be a "no school day" for future calendars as many students participate and wind up missing school.

Following an executive session, the board accepted the resignation Hiawatha Elementary School 3rd grade teacher Sara Walker, with regrets.

They also approved the hiring of Jarod Estrada as co-coach of the Middle School scholars Bowl Team, Danny Siebenmorgan as High School assistant baseball coach, and Will Lancaster as High School assistant baseball coach.

In addition, the board approved two-year contract extensions for Elementary School Principal Danielle Dierenfeldt, Middle School Principal Kyley Gatz, High School Principal Lori Fordyce, Superintendent Lonnie Moser and High School Athletic Director Josh Moser. Their contracts were extended through the 2024-25 school year.

(KAIR)--A Ford truck, owned by Atchison based MGP Ingredients is missing, reported stolen earlier this week from the area near the company- operations.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the company reported the theft of the truck Monday evening.

It- described as a white, 2012 Ford F350 one ton with a standard cab and a black flatbed.
The truck was stolen from the 1300 block of Main Street.

Anyone with information related to the theft of the MGP-owned truck is urged to contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KAIR)--Atchison's Amelia Earhart Memorial Airport is among a group of 66 airport projects receiving funding through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program.

According to a release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, the funds are earmarked to be used for planning, constructing, or rehabilitating public-use general aviation airports.

A total of $42,075 is designated for the City of Atchison, for use at the Amelia Earhart Airport, with the release explaining that the funds will be used to construct an automated gate.

The other 65 Kansas airports receiving funds are outside the local area.

Kelly, in the release, says the grants "ensure the safety and longevity of Kansas airports, all while contributing to economic growth and job creation."

The release notes that "the aviation industry represents over $20.6 billion in economic impact across a broad spectrum of supply chain and manufacturing industries in Kansas."

153 applications seeking funds were received by the Kansas Department of Transportation's Division of Aviation, with the latest round of grants ultimately designated according to impact on flight safety, economic growth, and regional benefit.

This year, the program awarded more than $11 million to 66 approved projects, with a total project value of nearly $14.4 million.

(MSC News)--U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (Kan.) Thursday requested unanimous consent on the Senate Floor to adopt the Senate resolution to officially recognize the Kansas City Chiefs as Super Bowl LVII Champions.

The Senate unanimously passed the resolution introduced by Senators Moran, Josh Hawley (Mo.), Roger Marshall, M.D. (Kan.) and Eric Schmitt (Mo.).

(KLZA)-- The Johnson-Brock School Board received an update on the upcoming building project at the school from Superintendent Jeff Koehler when they met Monday evening. Koehler said a community meeting on the project will be scheduled soon.

Blane Anthony addressed the board regarding his concerns about the project.

In other business Superintendent Koehler reported negotiations have been finalized with the Johnson-Brock Education Association which included a $650 increase on the base salary for teachers and activity sponsor updates and personal leave buyback to $100 per day.

The Board approved extending the contract for K-12 Principal Lucus Dalinghaus for the 2024-25 contract year with an $8 thousand salary increase to $113 thousand.

Membership to the Nebraska Association of School Boards for 2023-24 were approved at a cost of $3,859 and the summer drivers education tuition rate was set at $250 er student for 2023.

With the inclement weather, Hiawatha residents are reminded to have their vehicles removed from city snow routes

The City of Hiawatha- snow routes are as follows:

Oregon Street from 1st to Hopi Drive

Sixth Street from Delaware to Utah

Seventh Street from Delaware to Utah

Delaware from 6th to 7th

Utah Street from 6th to 7th

First Street from north city limits to south city limits

Miami Street from 1st to 12th

Iowa Street from 1st to Hopi

12th Street from US 36 to Oregon

Please have vehicles removed from the above routes for crews to completely clean routes for safe travels.

(LINCOLN, NEB.) — The Nebraska State Patrol and Nebraska Department of Transportation are urging travelers to be prepared for winter driving conditions as the next round of winter weather affects the state.

The latest snowfall projections show the potential for several inches of snow across southern and southeast Nebraska, including both the Lincoln and Omaha areas. Cold and windy conditions are also expected across the entire state.

If you’re traveling today or tomorrow, use the tools available to stay safe on the roads. All travelers are encouraged to monitor the forecast with local media and check the Nebraska 511 Advanced Traveler System at 511.Nebraska.Gov before starting to travel.

Some important tips for winter travel include:

• Know Before You Go - Check Nebraska 511

• Have a winter survival kit in your vehicle in case you get stranded.

• Don’t Crowd the Snow Plow.

• Reduce your speed and increase following distance, especially during icy conditions.

• Wear a seat belt every trip and every time.

Any motorists who become stranded or need assistance can call *55 or 800-525-5555 to reach the NSP Highway Helpline and speak directly with an NSP Dispatcher.

(KLZA)-- A former Auburn Mayor, City Council member and businesswoman is being remembered.

Barbara “Annie” Thomas died Monday at the age of 91.

Annie Thomas was a long-time wholesale distributor of Miller beer in Southeast Nebraska and served two terms as a member of the Auburn City Council and two terms as Mayor of Auburn.

In addition, she was actively involved in the Auburn Chamber Ambassadors and Auburn Senior Center.

Funeral services for Annie Thomas of Auburn will be Monday morning, February, 20, at 10 at the Auburn Christian Church.

Annie Thomas is survived by sons Dennis, Doug and Dave, and a daughter Leslie Thomas - Bratsovsky.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education approved settlement of a claim by former South School custodial employee Brenda Flerlage on a 5-1 vote when they met Monday night.

Flerlage asserted a claim for damages and filed a lawsuit. Through legal counsel the Falls City School District has been in negotiations with Flerlage to reach a settlement agreement.

Flerlage initially filed a claim with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission regarding pregnancy discrimination. Following this process and negotiations, Flerlage filed the lawsuit.

In return for a full release of liability which included a non-disparagement clause the School District proposed a lump sum settlement of $92,500. The School District will pay $2,500 with the remainder of the funds to be paid by the school district's insurance provider.

A report from Superintendent Tim Heckenlively said this is a complex case and while the district and legal counsel believe there are defenses to Ms. Flerlage's claims, litigation is a very long and very extensive process in terms of money, time, energy and resources.

The School Districts attorneys recommended a settlement and that the School District admit no wrongdoing or liability with the settlement.

The vote to approve the settlement was 5-1 with Board member Scott Hollens casting a nay vote.

(KAIR)--An early Tuesday morning Atchison traffic stop concluded with one arrest stemming primarily from the alleged possession of illegal drugs.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, an Atchison officer on patrol stopped the suspect vehicle in the 100 block of South 4th Street for not having a license plate on the vehicle.

An investigation followed the stop, which occurred just after midnight Tuesday morning, leading the officer to discover that the driver, identified as Danny Groshong, of Atchison, “to be in possession of controlled substances.”

The 32-year-old Groshong, Wilson said, was arrested on charges for no tag, no vehicle insurance, driving without a license, and possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

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

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha must develop an inventory of all lead service lines in the community.

City Water and Light Supervisor Brad Scott informed the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening about the EPA's new Lead and Copper Rule Revision.

Scott said the city will have to verify every single service line in town.

He said its not only the city's lead lines that must be inventoried but customers as well.

The inventory must be submitted to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment by October 16, 2024.

A certain percentage of the lead lines will have to be replaced each year.

According to KDHE, pipes that contain lead can become a potential health risk in drinking water.

In other business, the commission approved 10-year contract with Veolia for water tower maintenance. The company previously provided the service for the city. The cost for 2023 will be $54,615, with a five percent annual increase.

The commission agreed to a 5-year agreement with the USD 415 Clay Target Team for use of the airport grounds.

The commission also approved the appointment of Laura Tollefson to a three-year term on the Land Bank Board of Trustees. The term is to expire December 31, 2025.

(KNZA)--The City of Hiawatha has announced its first ever Logo Design contest.

City officials said the current logo has served the city well, but they are looking to freshen it up with a high quality digital image.

The city is looking for talented local artists who can design a logo representative of the City of Hiawatha. Examples include the Davis Memorial, Clock Tower, maple leaf and agriculture.

Submissions are due by Friday, March 31.

They can be sent to mgreen@cityofhiawatha.org or dropped off at City Hall.

The winner will receive $150 in Chamber Bucks.

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

According to a release issued by the city Tuesday, a water sample collected on February 6 showed a nitrate level of 12 milligrams per liter, which is above the federal maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per liter.

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

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

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

The release adds the city reviewed all available options and construction is progressing on a water treatment plant so the system can return to compliance as soon as possible.

( KLZA)-- Listeners in Southeast Nebraska, Northeast, Kansas and Northwest, Missouri should be prepared for a blast of winter headed our way.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Watch which goes into effect Wednesday afternoon and will continue through Thursday morning.

The forecast calls for the possibility of heavy snow, with accumulation totals ranging from 3 to 7 inches possible. In addition, winds gusts as high as 35 miles per hour could cause drifting snow.

Hazardous travel conditions including slick roads and reduced visibility are possible.

In addition, there is a slight chance of severe weather that could produce isolated hail, damaging winds or a tornado south of a line from, south of Pawnee City to Hamburg to Clarinda Iowa are possible this afternoon.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has developed a simplified direct loan application to provide improved customer experience for producers applying for loans from the Farm Service Agency (FSA).

The simplified direct loan application enables producers to complete a more streamlined application, reduced from 29 to 13 pages. Producers will also have the option to complete an electronic form or prepare a traditional, paper application for submission to their local FSA farm loan office. The paper and electronic versions of the form will be available starting March 1, 2023. 

Approximately 26,000 producers submit a direct loan application to the FSA annually, but there is a high rate of incomplete or withdrawn applications, due in part to a challenging and lengthy paper-based application process. Coupled with the Loan Assistance Tool released in October 2022, the simplified application will provide all loan applicants access to information regarding the application process and assist them with gathering the correct documents before they begin the process. This new application will help farmers and ranchers submit complete loan applications and reduce the number of incomplete, rejected, or withdrawn applications.  

Producers can explore all available options on all FSA loan options at fsa.usda.gov or by contacting their local USDA Service Center. 

(KLZA)-- Thirty Nebraska leaders were recognized with certificates and commemorative awards for completing Class XIV of Leadership Nebraska at a commencement ceremony held February 9, in Lincoln.

Graduates are current and emerging leaders from communities throughout Nebraska. The program enhances their leadership skills and deepens their knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing our state. Leadership Nebraska is dedicated to the development of informed leaders who understand issues, define problems, develop solutions and achieve positions of higher responsibility in Nebraska.

The program includes six, two-day sessions held in various locations across Nebraska. Topic areas include economic development, healthcare, agriculture, education, and government and policy.

Leadership Nebraska Class XIV members who graduated Thursday include:

Lucas Froeschl, Falls City Economic Development Growth Enterprise

(KLZA)-- A Mound City teenager suffered minor injuries in a wreck Tuesday afternoon in Rock Port.

The Missouri Highway Patrol report indicates 18-year-old Hunter Gordon suffered minor injuries when he as northbound on Missouri Route, 111 at about 4:00 p.m. on a Kawasaki Sport Bike while a pickup driven by 68-year-old Harley Lansdown of Rock Port, was eastbound on Calhoun Street.

The vehicles collided in the intersection and Gordon was ejected from the Sportbike which came to rest on its side, partially underneath the Lansdown pickup

Gordon was transported by private vehicle to Rock Port Family Medicine.

The Atchison County Sheriff's Department and Rock Port Police Department assisted at the scene of the wreck.

(KMZA)--The Wetmore Academic Center will close at the end of the current school year.

The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education approved a resolution Monday evening to close the school on a 5-2 vote. Board members Anissa Bloom and Phillip Buessing cast the dissenting votes.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Wetmore patron Analyssa Noe asked the board to give them another year so they can dtermine a plan for the Wetmore school and have time to manage the transition of school closure.

For the past several months, the board has been engaged in open discussions to explore the sustainability of the school.

“There is nothing enjoyable or easy about this decision,” said board president Leslie Scoby.

According to a release from Superintendent Todd Evans, the board's decision was based on extensive study and reflection on the following factors:

• Declining enrollment at the Wetmore Academic Center

• Difficulties of distributing resources to all three campuses in a fair and equitable way

• Challenges to the community of a school closure

The board began to explore these factors in detail last fall. Most recently on February 4, Wetmore families and community members had an opportunity to share their opinions and perspectives with the board in a public hearing.

Mrs. Scoby said, “We wrestled for months with the factors and competing values involved in a decision like this, and at no point did we take this decision lightly. What it ultimately came down to was responsible budget management and our duty to be good stewards of taxpayer dollars in the years to come.”

Monday night an announcement was made that the USD 113 Board of Education will not be implementing a Reduction in Force as a result of the closure. All impacted licensed and classified employees will be offered continued employment with USD 113.

In addition, the Board extended a window of time for employees wishing to retire who qualify for district retirement benefits. The window is available from Feb. 15 to Feb. 24, 2023.

When asked, the release says no Board of Education members were against the idea of the transfer of land from the southern portion of the district.

A committee, consisting of board members Anissa Bloom, Stan Keim and Kent Saylor, along with Superintendent Todd Evans was created to work and advise the board about the transition issues as a result of the building closure. The board of education will continue to develop and discuss plans for the 2023-24 school year to meet the needs of district students.

(KLZA)-- Last week concluded all-day committee hearings and this week the legislature begins debate on the legislative bills that have been kicked out of their respective committees in the Nebraska Legislature.

First District State Senator Julie Slama highlighted Senator Briese- LB 685 after she received many emails and phone calls from constituents in regard to this bill, expressing the need to “stand up for the little guys.”

LB 685 would boost the fees for “games of skill” machines to $1,000 per machine and impose a 20% tax on the net proceeds. Although I applaud Senator Briese- efforts in attempting to cut property taxes, I do not feel that this is the best solution.

Senator Slama believes that LB 685 unfairly targets smaller businesses and charitable organizations that rely on these machines as a source of income. Small businesses already pay more than their fair share in taxes and fees already; these businesses are already struggling to survive now. LB 685 would have a negative effect on various small businesses in District 1, such as small convenience stores, bars, etc.

The proposed tax increase, including other fees and regulations, would make it much more difficult for some businesses to operate and it could even lead to their closure.

In her weekly update, Senator Slama promises to continue to fight for “the little guys,” as it is crucial to understand that the “little guys” are the small businesses that are the backbone of the United States, noting that she is proud to stand strong with our small businesses and oppose LB 685.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Public Schools Wall of Fame Steering Committee is seeking nominations for this years selection.

The Wall of Fame is not to be confused with the Sports Hall of Fame, although outstanding athletes could be included in the nominations.

The purpose of the Wall of Fame is to honor and preserve the history of those associated with the local public school system, who have contributed meritorious service in their field. There are biographies and photos of the 28 peopler currently enshrined.

The person or persons selected will be inducted into the Wall of Fame during the Falls City High School's Annual Alumni Association's dinner meeting at Prichard Auditorium on June 25. This is the 20th year for the Wall of Fame.

The steering committee is headed by Roger Lampe and Susan Findlay. Anyone interested in making a nomination for the Walls of Fame is encouraged to obtain the forms from Lampe by calling 402-245-8207 or Findlay at 402-883-7667.

Individuals previously nominated remain on the active list of the Selection Committee. The deadline for submitting nominations this year is March, 10.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved a bid from Gus Construction for a bridge project northeast of Falls City when they met February 7. The bid amount was $645,620.

The Board voted to advertise for sealed bids for the 2023 Armor Coat project to be received and opened on February 28 and to advertise for bids for constructing a county shop building to replace the current building in the Village of Rulo. The bids for the building will be opened Wednesday, March 15.

Commissioners also conducted the quarterly jail inspection, finding the facility to be in good order.

(KNZA)--A Sabetha man has entered a plea in a child sex case.

Nemaha County Attorney Brad Lippert says 42-year-old Kevin Devore pleaded no contest Thursday in Nemaha County District Court to one count of aggravated criminal sodomy.

In exchange for the plea, a charge of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child was dismissed.

Sentencing was set for March 9.

Devore was arrested last July on a Nemaha County warrant for alleged sex crimes occurring on or between April 1, 2021 and November 4, 2021 involving a child under 14 years of age.

The case was investigated by the Sabetha Police Department.

Devore remains in the Nemaha County Jail, held on a $500,000 bond.

(KNZA)--The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education approved the purchase of a new bus when they met last week.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, the board approved the purchase of a 65-passenger bus from Kansas Truck Equipment in the amount of nearly $112,000. It was lowest among three bids received.

The district will be reimbursed for up to 25 percent of the cost of the new bus through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's Clean Diesel program.

In other business, the board discussed the current condition of the high school track. With all the gaps in the track, it makes it unsafe for students to run on the track. The district received a $6,000 estimate to fill the cracks. However, the board was told they will need to look into replacing the track and repairing the bleachers as they are just wasting money on temporary fixes. It was the consensus of the board to fill the cracks this year and to look at a long range plan moving forward.

Superintendent Jason Cline reported to the board to the that the transition from food service provider Taher to self-operating has been very smooth. Taher informed the district before Christmas break they would be ending their contract with the district effective February 1st.

Cline said this month's menus are posted on the district website, and they have a system in place for ordering and receiving food. He said Samantha Baker has taken on the role of food service manager and is doing a great job along with all the other cooks.

The district plans to submit another request for bids in the spring, with hopes of selecting another food service company for the start of the 2023-2024 school year.

Following an executive session, the board approved one year contract extensions for Horton High School Principal Larry Mills, Everest Middle School Principal Travis Torkelson and Curriculum Director Robyn Allen.

(KMZA)--A father and son were arrested after an alleged meth lab fire at a Pottawatomie County home.

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, in a release, said crews were called just after 12:30 Tuesday afternoon to a mobile home fire in the 400 block of East Plum Street in Louisville.

Upon arrival, emergency crews found 80-year-old Odis Parker and 47-year-old Odis Parker, Jr. outside the home with minor injuries.

The Sheriff's Office says deputies learned there was a methamphetamine lab inside the residence.

The release says a search warrant was applied for and executed on the residence once the fire was out. As a result, both Parkers were arrested on charges of manufacturing a controlled substance and possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture a controlled substance.

The elder Parker was also arrested on charges of criminal use of weapons, possession of a stimulant, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The younger Parker was also arrested on charges of arson by manufacturing a controlled substance and aggravated battery.

Following their arrest, the pair were booked into the Pottawatomie County Jail. Both are being held $10,000 bonds.

(KAIR)--An ongoing Atchison Police investigation, focused on recent burglaries and thefts in the city, has led to another arrest.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 39-year-old Joshua Hosier was arrested early Friday morning, in Saint Joseph, Missouri, on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with three counts of burglary, two counts of criminal damage to property, and theft. According to Wilson, the charges stem from “unlawful entries and criminal damage to vehicles parked in the area of 9th and Commercial [Streets] that occurred on January 2” in Atchison.

Hosier was arrested by Saint Joseph Police, shortly after 2:30 Friday morning, then booked into the Buchanan County Jail.

(KNZA)--Registered offenders in Brown County are being targeted by scammers; and due to the methods used, the Attorney General- office has been contacted for assistance.

That's the message relayed Friday in a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, who says at least six registered offenders have made complaints to his office that they have been notified by telephone and told they need to come to the Sheriffs Office to provide a DNA sample. The targeted offender is told to keep in contact with the caller and is threatened with a $1,000 fine for late test kits.

In another reported incident, Merchant says he was contacted by an offender who complained that his grandmother had received a phone call claiming he, the offender and grandson, was out of compliance.

According to Merchant, the phone number shown on caller ID is 785-380-7717, and when called, the person who answers claims to represent the Brown County Sheriffs Office.

Merchant, in the release, states that the scam is currently being investigated by his office, and related information is being forwarded to the Kansas Attorney Generals Office for assistance with the probe.

Merchant reminds all offenders that his office does not conduct business in such a way, and those with questions should call his office.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The operator of an oil pipeline says a faulty weld at a bend in the pipeline contributed to a spill that dumped nearly 13,000 barrels of crude oil into a northern Kansas creek.

Canadian-based TC Energy also estimated Thursday that the cost of cleaning up the spill will be $480 million.

The spill occurred Dec. 7 on the company's Keystone system in rural pastureland in Washington County.

The company says the weld was for a fitting that connected two sections of pipe, and the fitting and weld came from a manufacturing plant. TC Energy said it's analyzing other parts of the pipeline that could have similar issues.

(KNZA)--A Falls City man was injured Thursday morning in a single-vehicle weather-related wreck in northwest Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on Interstate-29 in Andrew County shortly before 9:00.

The Patrol reports 21-year-old David Reynolds was southbound when he lost control of his Ford Taurus on the snow and slush covered roadway. The vehicle went off the east side of the roadway, struck an embankment and overturned.

Reynolds, who was not wearing a seat belt, was taken by private vehicle to Community Medical Center, in Falls City, with suspected moderate injuries.

(KNZA)--A Horton woman was arrested on methamphetamine charges following a single-vehicle Brown County wreck this week.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, a sheriff's deputy was dispatched Wednesday to a non-injury accident in the vicinity of 2100 and 240th Road

Upon investigation, Merchant said the driver and sole occupant, 47-year-old Tonya White, was arrested on charges of possession of meth and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following her arrest, White was booked into the Brown County Jail.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission approved two expenditures at their January 31 meeting through funds awarded to the county through the American Rescue Plan Act.

Approved was the purchase of mobile radios for the county fire departments from Midwest Mobile in the amount of nearly $372,000 and $57,000 to planning consultant Dick Horton for services in developing a comprehensive plan for the county.

The action came after County Clerk Dawn Boyles told commissioners the Loyd Group had determined both requests met all the criteria for ARPA funding.

The Commission also voted 2-1 to move forward with submitting a request to utilize ARPA funding for a culvert mapping project to the Loyd Group for review. Commissioner Bill Pollock cast the dissenting vote.

(KAIR)--A suspect is in custody and formal charges are filed in relation to the death of an 18-year-old Leavenworth man who authorities say died following a fight on Monday.

The fight reportedly stemmed from an altercation that began during a pickup basketball game.

Arrested Wednesday night was 19-year-old Ismael Caleb Salinas-Richardson who the Leavenworth Times reports was taken into custody in Grandview, Missouri.

On Thursday, Salinas-Richardson was charged with involuntary manslaughter in connection with Miller's death.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, the charges were filed following a review of all relevant facts in the case.

KCTV reports the Leavenworth Police investigation into Miller's death began Monday “when officers were called to a disturbance near 6th Street and Shawnee Street in Leavenworth,” with investigators learning that an argument that began during the game continued outside, leading to critical injuries for Miller.

It was in that condition that police found him upon arrival, with Miller transported for care at an area hospital. He died later that night.

Miller was a student at Leavenworth High School.

(KAIR)--A total of forty-seven 5th through 8th grade students representing every county school competed Wednesday in the Atchison County Spelling Bee, held at Trinity Lutheran School in Atchison.

Taking first place was Trinity Hemp, 8th grade student at Saint Benedict Catholic School in Atchison.

Trinity correctly spelled “fervently”, followed by correctly spelling “installation” to take the top honor, and now advances to the Topeka Capital Journal Regional Spelling Bee, scheduled for Saturday, March 25th, in Wichita.

Runner-up honors this year went to Bryant Parker, a 7th grader, also from Saint Benedict Catholic School.

Spellers represented Atchison Elementary School, Atchison Middle School, Saint Benedict Catholic School, Trinity Lutheran School, Atchison County Community Elementary School, and Atchison County Community Middle School.

(KAIR)--Convenient resident access to self-service features and greater transparency.

Those words are found in the headline of a release announcing the redesign of the Atchison County website, with the release saying that the County “has partnered with CivicPlus®, a provider of integrated technology solutions exclusively for local governments, to launch a new, mobile-responsive, highly-functional civic website.”

According to the release, the “CivicPlus’ content management system will allow Atchison County to accomplish goals through its set of robust features, well-designed layout, and functionality.”

Examples of Atchison County goals through use of the new website, as outlined in the release, include increasing resident engagement through more dynamic web content and timely news, greater transparency of documents and data, and an improvement of administrative efficiencies through self-service website features.

Atchison County IT Director Wesley Lanter, in the release, calls the website “a tool that will continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of the community,” adding that the County's goal of the website's new design is “a more user-friendly point of access for our citizens to be able to access accurate content quickly and easily.”

The updated website, found at Atchison County's longstanding address of AtchisonCountyKS.org, was unveiled Wednesday afternoon.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas Highway Patrol Superintendent Herman Jones, who faces federal lawsuits over sexual harassment and retaliation, will retire this summer.

Gov. Laura Kelly announced Wednesday that Jones will step down July 1 after a 45-year career in law enforcement. He became patrol superintendent in 2019.

Some Republican lawmakers have suggested making the patrol part of the Kansas Attorney General's office if Jones wasn't removed.

Kelly also announced Wednesday that Adjutant General David Weishar, who leads the Kansas National Guard and is the state's emergency management director, will step down April 1.

She appointed Brigadier General Michael Venerdi to replace Weishar.

The governor did not name a replacement for Jones.

(KNZA)--A former Falls City, Nebraska man was killed Tuesday afternoon in a single-vehicle wreck in south central Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says killed in the wreck in Wright County was 81-year-old Willie Craig, of Mountain Grove, Missouri.

The Patrol reports Craig was eastbound on Route ZZ, five miles west of Mountain Grove, when his car traveled off the side of the roadway. The vehicle went airborne, struck a fence and multiple trees. The vehicle then overturned and caught fire.

Craig, who was the lone occupant in the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Patrol says its not known if he was wearing a seat belt when the wreck occurred.

(KAIR)--A group of 8 from the Valley Falls area took their concerns regarding the condition of various roads in their area to the Jefferson County Commission this week.

According to the unofficial minutes of Monday- Commission meeting, Valley Falls resident Kendle Beecham addressed the Commission, presenting pictures of problems with the roads, as well as receipts for damage to various vehicles and trailers.

Others residents, David Church and John Clare, also addressed the Commission, with both speaking in regards to the condition of the roads, with the group collectively voicing unhappiness with the performance of the road grader in their area.

Following the voicing of the concerns, the Commission, by consensus, indicated they will consider the information provided to see what can be done.

Beecham will be informed of the decision.

(KAIR)--Although their most active season has past, deer remain a constant on local, Kansas roadways, causing a hazard to area motorists, as a group of teens learned this week.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 17-year-old Liam Hall, of Cummings, was westbound/southbound on U.S. Highway 59, around 8:20 Monday night, when a deer was encountered in the roadway.

Hall swerved to avoid the deer as it crossed the highway near Haskell Road, with Hall's Chevrolet Suburban crashing into the ditch, north of the highway.

Hall, and his two 17-year-old passengers, were assessed at the scene by Atchison County EMS but were not transported for hospital care.

Deer movement is at its highest during the annual rut, or mating season, which runs from October through December.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman is arrested, accused of stealing a donation intended for the less fortunate in the Atchison community.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 39-year-old Pamela Bilderback was taken into custody Tuesday, arrested on charges including theft by deception, forgery, criminal use of a financial card, and unlawful computer acts.

Bilderback, a longtime volunteer at the Atchison Salvation Army, is accused of stealing a donation that had been intended for the agency.

Wilson, in the release, explains that the allegedly stolen donation “was made with gift cards which were used [allegedly by Bilderback] in transactions at an Atchison business on various dates in December 2022.”

Following her arrest on the charges, Bilderback was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners met with Dave Manes with Skyline Construction during their Jan. 31 meeting regarding the bid presented earlier for replacing the roof of the Courthouse.

Manes presented recommendations he would like sent to the architects to consider including replacing some materials that were listed to be used in bid specifications.

Commissioners approved awarding the bid for the roof replacement project by Skyline Construction for the bid price of $178,850 and to approve the alternate bid for painting of the fire escape for $47,600.

The Board voted to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the State of Nebraska Administration Office of the Courts and Probation to facilitate transfer of audio-visual components, equipment, or full systems to be used in courtrooms in the Richardson County Courthouse.

Commissioner Rick Karas reported that three surplus patrol vehicles and an enclosed trailer were sold on Big Iron Auctions. The Dodge Charger, Pontiac Grand Prix and Dodge Ram pickup along with the trailer sold for a total of $21,694.

(KLZA)-- Tuesday was Safer Internet Day 2023.

The Nebraska State Patrol Tech Crimes Unit is encouraging parents, teachers, and kids to learn about ways to stay safe during their online activity.

Lt. Monty Lovelace, Commander of NSP Tech Crimes says “One major piece of the effort is making sure that parents, kids, teachers, and others know that there are resources out there to help keep them safe in their online activity.”

NSP encourages all internet users to keep safety in mind during time online. The effort can be as a simple as starting a conversation about how kids use technology.

“Opening that dialogue with your child can be a major factor in keeping them safe online,” said Lt. Lovelace. “Parents should also understand and utilize the parental control features built into most devices, set clear rules for online activity, and keep the conversation open so you know what your kids are doing online.”

Resources are available at the Safer Internet Day website. Safer Internet Day started in 2004 and has grown into a worldwide effort.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Sheriff's Deputies executed a search warrant, looking for stolen property in the 1600 block of Abbott Street Monday evening.

During the execution of the search warrant, officers recovered stolen property and discovered a zip-lock baggie suspected to be Methamphetamine.

Deputies applied for and were granted a second search warrant to allow them to search for controlled substances in the home.

According to a report from Sheriff Rick Hardesty, Deputies located approximately 16 grams of suspected Methamphetamine and approximately one pound of marijuana.

37-year-old John Pohlman of Falls City was arrested and charged with possession with intent to deliver 10-27 grams of Methamphetamine; possession with intent to deliver marijuana; possession of a controlled substance and a habitual criminal charge.

Pohlman was lodged in the Richardson County Jail.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council at their February 1st meeting approved a contract with AHRS Construction for the Main Street reconstruction project from 7th to 11th Streets, after approving the low bid from the Bern-based company at their previous meeting.

The Council approved one change, adding removal of the existing light poles and bases to the contract, bringing the total contract to $1,415,035.

The Council also approved a supplemental agreement with the engineering firm, Wilson and Company, of Salina, to provide construction related services for the project. The project is anticipated to start by March 1st.

In other business, the Council approved the low bid from from Allied Systems, of St. Joseph, for the replacement of a sewer lift station in the Sunset Addition in the amount of $67,173. It was among three bids received.

The Council also voted 4-1 vote to accept a bid from Honeyman Ford, of Seneca, for purchase of a 2023 Ford F-150 crew cab XL truck for the Electric Department in the amount of $45,646 with the trade-in of 2002 Ford truck. The bid was about $2,500 higher than a bid submitted by Nemaha Valley Motors for a 2023 Dodge Ram truck. The dissenting vote came from Ray Shinn, who thought the bid should be awarded to the lowest bidder.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council awarded a contract in the amount of $315,295 to Rulo Transportation for the Reed Bed Rehabilitation & Replacement Project at the Wastewater Treatment Plant when they met Monday night.

Utility Superintendent Ray Luhring said the bid was higher than anticipated. Rulo Transportation said they bid the project assuming the worst case scenario as far as needing to replace aggregate, pea gravel and sand.

Luhring said after the company dug a test hole in one of the reed beds, they felt it less likely they will need to replace as much material and there is a possibility the cost could be as much as $180 thousand less than the bid.

The Board of Public Works recommended the contract be awarded. ARPA Funds will be used to pay for the work.

(KAIR)--An Atchison residential burglary that occurred last week has led police to who they say was behind the crime.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 35-year-old James Gilliland was arrested Saturday for burglary and theft.

According to Wilson, the 57-year-old resident of the home, located in the 400 block of North 2nd Street, reported to Police Friday that a burglary had occurred sometime between 6:50 that morning and 12:20 that afternoon.
Reported as missing from the residence were several firearms and several knives.

The investigation that followed receipt of the report led police to Gilliland who was apprehended around 1:30 Saturday morning.

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

According to Wilson, the stolen firearms and knives have been recovered.

A separate investigation into the theft of a car has partially been solved.

A release from Wilson says that a 1996 Toyota Corolla, reported stolen from the 300 block of North 17th Street on January 31, has been recovered.

According to Wilson, the car was located Saturday in Leavenworth.
No arrests are immediately made.

Anyone with related information should contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is going to prison, sentenced in connection with a theft-turned handgun discovery in 2022.

According to a release from Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker, 46-year-old Landon Bain was sentenced last week, in Atchison County District Court, to serve 2-years-7-months behind bars for the crimes, which stem from an August 20, 2022 theft from the Atchison AT&T store.

According to the release, Atchison Police were called to that location when it was reported that Bain had stolen an item from the store.

When Police arrived, they saw Bain enter the passenger side of a vehicle, where he appeared to be shoving an item into the back of the vehicle.

Bain was detained by Police, who located a handgun, and the stolen store item, in the vehicle.

Store employees told Police that while Bain never brandished the weapon in the store, staff members saw it in his pocket and became scared.

Through the use of DNA, the Kansas Bureau of Investigation determined the gun to belong to Bain, who is a convicted felon, with that offense playing into his overall sentencing.

Once the DNA was determined, Bain entered a no contest plea to the charges, leading to Friday- sentencing in Atchison County District Court.

(KNZA)--Two were arrested following a Hiawatha drug bust over the weekend.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, the Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant on an apartment at 715 1/2 Oregon Street late Saturday night.

31-year-old Latisha Campbell, of Fairview, and 40-year-old Austin Cook, of Hiawatha, were arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of opiates, possession of drug parapheranalia and felony obstruction.

In addition, Campbell was arrested on two Brown County probation violation warrants.

Following their arrests, the pair were booked into the Brown County Jail.

Methamphetamine possession was at the heart of another Brown County search warrant execution earlier Saturday night.

According to Merchant, the Sheriffs Office Drug Task Force conducted the search at 714 Iowa Street, in Hiawatha, around 8:10 that night.

Two arrests were made, with Hiawatha residents Ronald Clauson and Morton Alfrey both taken into custody on charges for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrests, the 51-year-old Clauson and the 61-year-old Alfrey were both booked into the Brown County Jail.

( Pictures credit of Brown County Sheriff's Office )

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners met Tuesday, Jan. 31.

Commissioners discussed the quality of rock that should be used in different condition of county roads with Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau, Jr.

The specifications for the replacement and construction of a County Shop building in Rulo was presented to the Board.

Darveau also presented the 1 & 6 Year Road Plan for Richardson County. A public hearing on the plan will be held Tuesday, February 21 at 10 a.m.

It was also revealed that bids will be accepted for 2023 armor coat projects to cover just over 17 miles.

Commissioners also voted to change the weekly meeting day for the Board of Commissioners from Tuesday to Wednesday beginning on March 8, 2023. This will allow for the County Attorney's Office representatives to attend the meetings since they are in court Monday's and Tuesday's.

(KNZA)--An Auburn, Kansas man has been arrested in connection with a 2021 Jackson County wreck that claimed the life of a Topeka woman during a law enforcement pursuit.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said 44-year-old Robert Eugene Love, Jr., was arrested Sunday on a Jackson County warrant charging him with first-degree murder and 13 other offenses. Morse said Shawnee County deputies located Love in Shawnee County.

The charges were filed last November following an investigation by the Kansas Highway Patrol into a two-vehicle wreck on May 27, 2021 at the intersection of 286th Road and U.S. 75 Highway about 7 miles north of Holton.

The Patrol reports Love was westbound on 286th Road, fleeing from a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy, when he failed stop at the intersection and his car collided with a southbound SUV on U.S. 75.

A passenger in the SUV, Shai Boyd, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Four others, including Love, were injured in the wreck.

Love was booked into the Jackson County Jail where he is being held on a $750,000 bond.

(KMZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education held a public hearing Saturday morning on a proposal to close the Wetmore Academic Center.

More than twenty-five individuals addressed the board during the about two-hour hearing, all voicing their support for keeping the school open. They included current students, former students, parents, community members and others.

Taygan Fisher, an 8th grader at Wetmore, said closing the school would hurt students and staff. She said she is afraid she won't find staff who cares in a bigger school.

Analyssa Noe, who has helped spearhead a community action group of Wetmore patrons, said they believe the Wetmore school is worth saving but do not think they can, or that they should remain, a part of the USD 113 any longer.

Wetmore school parent and graduate Andrea Lago said the school has been successfully educating students for generations and noted the academic achievement of students at the school. She said the Wetmore school finished in the top twenty in the state and best in the county in recent state assessments even though half of its students are considered " at risk" due to their economic status.

Others questioned the need to close the school and asked that a neutral third party be brought in to review the district's finances.

The speakers told the board few Wetmore students would choose to attend Sabetha schools if Wetmore is closed.

According to a resolution approved by the board in December, the closure is being proposed due to a continued declining enrollment and budgetary considerations. The resolution said closure of the school is necessary to allow for additional educational opportunities for students and more efficient use of resources.

There was currently 125 students at the K-12 Wetmore school.

According to information presented by Superintendent Todd Evans at the hearing, the Wetmore school has seen an enrollment decline of 51 students over the past ten years and 29 students over the past five years.

Based on a September 2022 count, Evans said there were three classes at the school with five or less students, and five with less than ten students.

Evans said the cost to educate a student at Wetmore is the highest among the district's schools, at $13,059.

Board members did not comment at the hearing. A decision on whether to close the school could come as early as the board's February 13 meeting.

(KNZA)--A Topeka man, accused of stealing a vehicle from Hiawatha, was taken into custody following a pursuit.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, said the Sheriff's Office was notified Sunday that a vehicle reported stolen from Hiawatha a few days prior was located at a residence in the vicinity of 130th and Falcon Roads on the Kickapoo Reservation.

At about 8:00 Sunday morning, Merchant said the vehicle drove away from the residence and failed to yield to deputies and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle pulled in to a field in the vicinity of 220th and Acorn Roads where the driver and sole occupant, 26-year-old Tristan Morris, was arrested with incident.

Following his arrest, Morris was booked into the Brown County Jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony Obstruction, possession of stolen property, flee and attempt to elude, reckless driving and no drivers license. Morris also had felony warrants in Brown County for probation violation and failure to appear as well as a felony warrant out of Douglas County, Nebraska for failure to appear.

No injuries were reported in the pursuit.

The Kickapoo, Iowa and Sac and Fox Tribal Police Departments, as well as Nemaha County Sheriff's Department and Sabetha Police Department assisted in the case.

(KAIR)--A change in location is confirmed for Atchison's annual concert which has traditionally opened each July- Amelia Earhart Festival weekend for more than two-decades.

Formerly known as “LakeFest,” and held at Atchison's Warnock Lake, the concert this year, scheduled for July 21, will be held at the Atchison Riverfront, with Sawyer Brown named to headline the concert.

Jacque Pregont, Amelia Earhart Festival Coordinator, calls the long-running country music group “crowd favorites,” adding in a release that Sawyer Brown will “bring an unmatched energy to the [Atchison Riverfront] stage and will provide fantastic fun to cap off the evening.”

According to the release, Sawyer Brown is only one aspect of the July concert, with additional acts to be added, and announced, soon.

Tickets go on sale May 1 at the advance price of $10 per ticket. The price will climb to $15 on the day of the concert.

Gates and concessions for the Friday Night Music on the Riverfront will open at 4:00 on the afternoon of July 21, with the Army National Guard to present the colors at 7:00, accompanied by the singing of the National Anthem.

The following day, Saturday, July 22, will feature a full day of family-friendly festival activities in Atchison, leading up to the evening- “Concert in the Sky” fireworks spectacular over the Riverfront.
The display will, as tradition holds, serve as the finale for the weekend festival.

A complete 2023 Festival schedule will be available as details are finalized at https://www.facebook.com/AmeliaEarhartFestival

(KNZA)--Governor Laura Kelly Friday appointed Kelly Fuemmeler, of Troy, to a vacant magistrate judgeship position in the 22nd Judicial District.

The vacancy results from the resignation of District Magistrate Judge Laura Johnson-McNish. Johnson-Mcnish was elected in November to fill the district judge position that had been held James Patton, who retired in January.

Kelly has already proven herself a capable attorney and municipal court judge in the 22nd District,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I am confident that she is a great fit for this magistrate position.”

Fuemmeler currently serves as a Municipal Judge for the City of Highland, Co-City Attorney for the City of Wathena, and Assistant City Attorney for the City of Troy. Fuemmeler is active in the local legal community as a member of the 22nd Judicial District Corrections Advisory Board.

“I am honored to accept the appointment as magistrate judge for the 22nd Judicial District in Doniphan County,” Fuemmeler said. “I was raised in Doniphan County and have enjoyed serving this community as a practicing attorney for almost 19 years. I am excited to continue my service to the residents of Doniphan County as a member of the judiciary.”

District Court Judges in the 22nd Judicial District are elected and serve four-year terms. When a judge retires in the middle of a term, the governor appoints a new judge to finish out the term.

The 22nd Judicial District includes Brown, Doniphan, Nemaha and Marshall Counties.

(KAIR)--A plumbing-based upgrade is coming to the Jefferson County Courthouse, with Commissioners this week voting to move forward with the work.

According to the unofficial minutes of the Jefferson County Commission's January 30 meeting, a bid of $80,500 was approved unanimously by the Commission, following a presentation from the County's Public Works Director, Ben Domann.

Domann told Commissioners that bid, from Topeka-based McElroy's Plumbing, was the only one submitted, despite Domann's attempt to gain other options, with those contacted declining to do so.

The cost of the project- bill is budgeted into the federally allocated pandemic-era American Rescue Plan Act Funds, with Domann reminding the board that the funds have to be spent in a specific time-frame.

The Commission's vote of approval means a replumbing of the bathrooms on all three floors of the courthouse, as well as new plumbing in the utility chase, replacing the tile and toilets, as well as installing new partitions and new plumbing fixtures.

According to Domann at the meeting, McElroy's Plumbing “will work with the work schedules as much as possible” once the project gets underway.

(KAIR)--An arrest is made in connection with the ongoing investigation into a rash of recent Atchison burglaries and thefts.
Accused of three of the crimes is 45-year-old Atchison resident Walter Hugh Taylor.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Taylor was taken into custody Thursday afternoon, and faces charges for the burglary of a residence in the 300 block of North 3rd Street, which occurred December 24 of last year, and the theft of items from that residence; the burglary of a business in the 1600 block of Main Street and the theft of a Chevrolet pickup truck stolen from outside the business on January 22; and for the possession of a stolen Ford Thunderbird that Police found on fire in the 900 block of George Street on the evening of January 1. The car had earlier been stolen from Platte County, Missouri.

Along with the burglary and theft related crimes, Taylor additionally faces a charge for the unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, with that crime allegedly occurring on January 1.

He was also arrested on a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court.

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

(KAIR)--An arrest is made in connection with the ongoing investigation into a rash of recent Atchison burglaries and thefts.
Accused of three of the crimes is 45-year-old Atchison resident Walter Hugh Taylor.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Taylor was taken into custody Thursday afternoon, and faces charges for the burglary of a residence in the 300 block of North 3rd Street, which occurred December 24 of last year, and the theft of items from that residence; the burglary of a business in the 1600 block of Main Street and the theft of a Chevrolet pickup truck stolen from outside the business on January 22;

and for the possession of a stolen Ford Thunderbird that Police found on fire in the 900 block of George Street on the evening of January 1. The car had earlier been stolen from Platte County, Missouri.

Along with the burglary and theft related crimes, Taylor additionally faces a charge for the unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, with that crime allegedly occurring on January 1.

He was also arrested on a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court.

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

(Washington, D.C.) -- Missouri 6th District Congressman Sam Graves, who chairs the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, introduced a joint resolution of disapproval on the Biden Administration- Waters of the United States rule, which will be effective March 20, 2023.

The rule relates to the protections that were in place in 2015 under the Clean Water Act for traditional navigable waters, bolstering protections for sources of drinking water, in addition to supporting agriculture.

Congressman Graves, in a statement, says that this burdensome rule is flawed and has enormous impacts on everyday Americans. He also calls the rule an unnecessary drain on federal resources. A Senate Joint Resolution was also introduced in the U.S. Senate.

(KMZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education will hold a public hearing Saturday morning on a proposal to close the Wetmore Academic Center.

The hearing will take place at 10:00 in the school's gym.

At the hearing, a representative of the Board will present the proposal to close the school and the board will hear testimony as to the advisability of the proposed closing.

According to a resolution approved by the board in December, the closure is being proposed due to a continued declining enrollment, budgetary considerations and the need to recruit and retain quality staff. The resolution said closure of the school is necessary to allow for additional educational opportunities for students and more efficient use of resources.

There are currently 125 students at the K-12 Wetmore school.

If the school is closed, students would be reassigned to the Sabetha schools, but also are expected to attend Jackson Heights and Centralia schools.

Superintendent Todd Evans said a decision will not be made at Saturday's special meeting. If the board chooses to vote on the issue, he said it will likely be at their February 13 meeting.

(KNZA)--A suspected spy balloon from China was spotted hovering in Brown County just north of Hiawatha and moving eastward on Friday morning.

U.S. officials announced Friday that Secretary of State Antony Blinken had postponed a planned high-stakes weekend diplomatic trip to China as the Biden administration weighed a broader response to the discovery of the high-altitude Chinese balloon flying over sensitive sites in the western United States.

The Associated Press reported the abrupt decision came despite China's claim that the balloon was a weather research satellite that had blown off course. The U.S. has described it as a surveillance satellite.

The discovery of the balloon was announced on Thursday by Pentagon officials who said one of the places it was spotted was over the state of Montana, which is home to one of America's three nuclear missile silo fields at Malmstrom Air Force Base.

A senior defense official said the U.S. prepared fighter jets, including F-22s, to shoot down the balloon if ordered. The Pentagon ultimately recommended against it, noting that even as the balloon was over a sparsely populated area of Montana, its size would create a debris field large enough that it could have put people at risk.

( The Associated Press contributed to this story)

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is alerting residents of several scams currently circulating in the area.

Merchant said he has received several reports of callers identifying themselves as being from the IRS and stating they need information from county residents to make sure they receive their refund. Residents are being asked to verify their social security number, bank routing number etc so the funds can be deposited into their bank accounts.

So far, Merchant said no one has complied with the request.

He would like to caution everyone that the IRS WILL NEVER contact you by phone. He said this is a scam to obtain your personal and financial account information. Also, Do not trust your caller ID, several have reported that their caller ID's showed a number and also identified that number being form the IRS and when they answered, the person on the other end of the phone spoke very broken english with a thick foreign accent.

Merchant said another scam is callers representing themselves as needing Medicare/Medicaid numbers to help residents increase their benefits. Personal questions are being asked such as social security numbers, and what bank the residents does business with. He said this again is a scam trying to obtain your personal information.

To avoid becoming a victim of any scam, Merchant said remember a few important steps.

#1 Never give out any personal information over the phone or computer.
#2 Never trust your caller ID
#3 If you do not recognize the caller, hang up immediately, the longer
scammers keep you on the phone, the more info they obtain
#4 If you feel you have been made a victim of a scam, notify your local
law enforcement at once

(KNZA)--A Texas woman convicted of vehicular homicide in connection with a 2021 Brown County collision that claimed the life of a Sabetha girl has learned her fate.

Brown County Kevin Hill said 38-year-old Catrina Weathersett was sentenced February 1 in Brown Court District Court to 12 months in the jail on the misdemeanor charge, which is the maximum for the offense.

Six months of the sentence was suspended and she was ordered to serve the remaining 6 months in jail. Upon her release, she will be placed on 12-months supervised probation. Weathersett will have to surrender her commercial driver's license until the probation is over.

Weathersett pleaded no contest in late November to the charge.

6-year-old Taya Mooney died from injuries received in the July 25, 2021 wreck on U.S. 75 Highway near Sabetha when a car she was a passenger in was struck from behind by a semi truck driven by Weathersett.

She was charged following a lengthy investigation by the Kansas Highway Patrol that included dashboard video of the collision.

(KAIR)--Arson is ruled out as the cause of Tuesday- fire in Atchison- downtown business district, which left damage in its wake.

According to a release from Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, the department- “fire investigator along with assistance from Atchison Police detectives have determined the cause of Tuesday- fire to be incendiary but with no intent of arson,” adding that “no charges will be filed as the affected business owners work to restore their shops to be re-open.”

The fire began during the noon hour Tuesday in the loading dock area of the Atchison Furniture Company, located at 501 Commercial Street, and spread into the store, with the affects spreading to other nearby businesses.
According to Weishaar, “the amount of damage, mostly caused by smoke, is still being estimated by the affected businesses who continue to work with their insurance providers.”

The preliminary investigation indicated that the furniture store, as well as two adjacent business buildings, Hilligoss Shoes and Eddie- Five & Dime, had incurred heavy smoke damage. However, Weishaar, on Thursday, said investigators “have also learned that the smoke and odor has affected more than the three businesses originally listed. Other occupancies on the south side of the 500 block of Commercial, to the east of the fire, have reported that they were unable to occupy their locations due to the odor that was a result of the fire and will require cleaning and deodorization.”

(KAIR)--A stolen car is recovered, and the accused, Atchison thief is in custody.

That- according to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, who says 59-year-old Leanna Michaels was arrested Wednesday for theft of a vehicle.

Wilson, in the release, says the 1992 Mercury passenger car was stolen around 12:20 Tuesday afternoon from a parking lot located in the 700 block of Atchison- Kansas Avenue.

The next day, Wednesday, the car was recovered by police, found that morning in a parking lot located in the 400 bock of Main Street.

According to Wilson, it was a short time following the recovery of the car that Michaels was located and arrested.
Once in custody, she was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School District and Beynon Sports have reached a settlement agreement after four years of issues with the nearly $1 million high school track that was installed new in 2018.

Following an executive session for attorney-client privilege, the Hiawatha School Board in a special meeting Monday evening voted 6-0 to enter into a proposed settlement with Beynon for repair of the track. Board member Amy Kopp was absent. Details on the settlement were not immediately released.

Prior to the vote, Board President Ian Schuetz said he was pleased that an agreement had been reached to repair the track so there is a usable surface.

According to the board meeting minutes, Schuetz said student athletes and patrons have waited a long time to see this and it was unfortunate the district was put in this situation.

He said the board feels they have done all they can and unfortunately are settling for less than what was paid. Schuetz said a settlement had to be made or spend years and thousands of dollars in court before the district had a usable track.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser and Schuetz were designated to sign the agreement on behalf of the the school district.

The school district filed a petition in Brown County District in September against Beynon and negotiations have been ongoing since that time.

(KLZA)-- The Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn has announced that Dr. Gary Koenig, who is board certified in internal medicine, pulmonary disease and allergy and immunology is joining the hospitals medical team.

Dr. Koenig attended medical school at Creighton University and completed his residency at Creighton University Medical Center. Specializing in Pulmonology, Allergy and Immunology and Sleep Medicine, Dr. Koenig has been practicing for over 20 years and is based out of Omaha.

Dr. Koenig will hold clinics on the 2nd Wednesday of every month beginning February 8.

(KMZA)---The results of a county-wide survey distributed last fall in Nemaha County was released to the public Monday evening.

County residents filled the courtroom at the Nemaha County Courthouse to hear the presentation, which was conducted via Zoom by Jason Morado with Olathe-based ETC Institute.

The purpose to the 5-page survey was to identify the needs and preferences of residents to assist in the development of a comprehensive plan for the county.

Morado said there were 945 completed surveys that were returned, well surpassing their 400 completed survey goal.

Residents overwhelmingly felt the county is an excellent place to live. The results showed that the county rated much higher than most communities across the state and across the nation.

Respondents felt quality schools and affordable housing were most important issues that need to addressed in the county over the next five years.

The survey did include several questions related to wind turbines in the county. 64 percent of respondents were opposed to the addition of more industrial wind turbines in the county.

The survey results presentation can be viewed on the county's website.https://www.nmcoks.us/planning-commission

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha philanthropist is being remembered.

Jere Bruning died Sunday at the age of 92.

Bruning was a longtime farmer in the White Cloud area and moved to Hiawatha after retiring.

He was was very involved in the community, contributing years of service to the Brown County Historical Society, KANZA Mental Health Foundation Board, Morrill Free Public Library Board, and the Hiawatha Chamber of Commerce, among many others.

Brunning was also a generous donor to many community causes.

It was for the Historical Society that Bruning donated almost half a million dollars in 2022 for a new building, in memory of his wife, Patty. Construction on the building - which will house many of Bruning's personal memorabilia, along with other Historical Society archives and provide a large meeting room - began last July and is to be completed later this year.

Bruning was known for collecting antique Farmall tractors, with his collection being displayed with great pride at the Historical Society's Ag Museum.

A Celebration of Life Service for Bruning will be held Thursday morning, February 9th, at 10:30 at the Zion United Methodist Church, northeast of Robinson.

He is survived by four daughters.

(MSC News)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, on Wednesday, announced that total tax-only collections for January were $1.05 billion. That is $56.2 million, or 5.7%, more than the January estimate. Those collections were also $102.4 million, or 10.8%, more than January 2022.

Individual income tax collections were $494.9 million in January. That is $65.1 million, or 11.6%, less than the estimate and 8.7% less than January 2022. Corporate income tax collections were $166.1 million, which is $131.1 million, or 374.6%, more than the January 2023 estimate. Those collections are $134.5 million, or 425.0%, more than January 2022.

Retail sales tax collections were $275.2 million, which is $4.8 million, or 1.7%, less than the January estimate but 6.6% more than January 2022. Compensating use tax collections were $86.1 million, which is $3.9 million, or 4.3%, less than the estimate, but 2.4% more than January 2022.

(KAIR)--The name of the man found dead at a residence in Wamego Sunday has been made public.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, on Wednesday, identified him as 47-year-old Wamego resident Justin L. Meyer.

According to the KBI's release, “evidence is not suggesting that foul play occurred, but investigators are awaiting the final autopsy report.”

Meyer was found dead at a Wamego residence Sunday on the floor of a bathroom, and pronounced dead at the scene.

The KBI, Wamego Police Department, and Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office are continuing to investigate.

(KAIR)--Atchison police are searching for a missing car, stolen early Tuesday morning while the driver was letting it warm up, due to the extremely cold temperatures.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the 1996, green Toyota Corolla passenger car was parked, running in a driveway, in the 300 block of North 17th Street at the time it was taken.

Wilson says the crime occurred around 4:45.

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

(KAIR)--Three arrests are made following the reported theft of firearms from an Atchison residence.

A release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie says 19-year-old Jetaya Lucero, of Ottawa, Kansas, and two male Atchison juveniles, face charges for burglary, theft, and criminal damage.

Their arrests followed the Monday afternoon report from the occupant of a residence, located in the 7000 block of Rawlins Road, near 274th Road, that the home had been burglarized, with several firearms taken.

According to Laurie, “it appeared that the suspects forced their way in by kicking the door open.”

A silver SUV was captured by security camera traveling on the roadway near the burglarized residence and an attempt to locate was issued.

The suspect silver SUV was located by a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper on U.S. Highway 73, south of the Atchison County line, with the Trooper stopping the vehicle on Millwood Drive, in Leavenworth County.

Atchison County Deputies responded to that location, leading to the recovery of the stolen firearms from the vehicle, and to the arrest of the trio traveling in the SUV.

Following their arrests, Lucero was booked into the Atchison County Jail, while the two juveniles were taken to a juvenile detention facility.

(KAIR)--25-years to life is the sentence handed down to a Lancaster man accused of child sex-related crimes.

According to a release from Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker, 60-year-old Michael Pease learned his fate January 13 in Atchison County District Court.

He had previously been found guilty of one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child by a jury, in July, as the outcome of his two day trial.

Pease was additionally found not guilty on another count of the same charge.

During his sentencing, Becker says "the Court found that there were not substantial and compelling reasons to depart to a probation disposition," earning the 25-year to life sentence instead.

Pease will additionally be subject to lifetime registration as a sex offender and lifetime post-release supervision.

He will not be considered for parole until a minimum of 25-years are served.

Pease was arrested, and charged, in July, 2021 following an Atchison County Sheriff's Office investigation that began the month prior.

The probe began after the Sheriff's office "took a report regarding a juvenile who had disclosed that she was inappropriately touched by Pease.”

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is reporting an increase in the theft of traffic signs lately, especially in the western part of the county.

He said the Sheriff's Office has taken reports of speed limit signs, stop signs, country road signs, and weight limit bridge signs being stolen.

Merchant cautions those who are stealing signs that they can be charged with a felony should the removal of the signs cause death or great bodily harm to an individual.

He is urging parents to check their kids rooms, barns and garages, as this is where most of the signs usually end up.

At the current time, Merchant is asking anyone with a stolen sign or signs, to return them ASAP to the county barn at 307 West Front Street in Fairview.

“If you have a family member in need of an ambulance or emergency medical care and the crossroad signs are removed, this would place a victim in serious risk and I am sure no one would want that. If a stop sign is removed and causes an accident, you would also be responsible, so do the right thing and return these signs.”

If you have any information about the thefts, you can call the Sheriff's Office at (785) 742-7125.

(KLZA)-- A Rock Port, Missouri man faces 20 years to life in federal prison after he plead guilty in federal court Monday to selling fentanyl to another Atchison County, Missouri man that resulted in his fatal overdose.

23-year-old Quentin W. Carder entered the plea before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, which caused the death of another person, and one count of distributing fentanyl which caused the death of another person.

Carder admitted to distributing four blue pills that appeared to be oxycodone, butn which were counterfeit and actually contained fentanyl, to a person identified as “C.L.” on June 18, 2021. Carder had previously supplied this person with cocaine.

In the early hours of June 20, 2021, C.L. Used one of the fentanyl pills obtained from Carder, and later that morning, C.L.'s father found him unresponsive in his bedroom in medical distress. C.L. Was transported to a hospital for medical attention but eventually died on June, 22, 2021.

A forensic toxicologist concluded the victim would not have died but for acute intoxication of fentanyl.

Carder is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole.

A sentencing hearing will be held after completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

U.S. Attorney Byron Black is prosecuting the case, which was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Missouri Highway Patrol and the Atchison County, Missouri, Sheriff's Department.

(KLZA)-- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the awarding of nearly $15.8 million to the Rock Port Telephone Company in Rock Port, Missouri, for the Fiber-to-the-Home program.

Through the ReConnect grant, fiber will be available to more than 385 square miles in Atchison and Holt counties. The project will help with the building of 798 miles of mainline fiber, making high speed internet service available to more than 1,100 persons, 297 farms and 30 businesses.

The Rock Port Telephone Company will match the grant with $5,261,141 of its own money bringing the total project cost to $21,044,564.