(KMZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 and Jackson Heights USD 335 Boards of Education held a special joint meeting Wednesday evening at the Sabetha Middle School.

USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans said the purpose of the meeting was to discuss a potential land transfer from the southern portion of USD 113 and follows the decision to close the Wetmore Attendance Center at the end of the current school year.

Evans said the USD 113 board indicated a willingness to establish a north-south boundary line of 56th Road in Nemaha County, while the USD 335 board countered with a proposal to obtain the area to 112th Road.

The roads are seven miles apart and include over 60 miles of area.

USD 335 Board President David Allen said the suggestion of 112th Road as a potential boundary line comes following discussions with Wetmore patrons and was told has a historical background.

Evans said he thinks the two sides are along ways apart from each other. However, USD 113 board member Jim Scoby said he thinks there's room for some compromise and would like to be able to meet in the middle.

Evans said some parents in the Wetmore-Goff area have also indicated they are interested in some of the USD 13 property going to Vermillion USD 380.

An additional meeting hasn't been scheduled.

(KLZA)-- A Missouri man died from injuries suffered in a two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon in Nemaha County, Nebraska.

The Nemaha County Sheriff's Department reports the wreck occurred a mile-and-a-half east of Auburn on Highway 136 around 3:45.

The Sherifff's Office says an eastbound Ford F-350 pickup driven by 53-year-old LeRoy Forbes, of Falls City, was pulliing a trailer and slowed for slower moving traffic when the trailer was struck from behind by an eastbound Nissan van driven by 63-year-old David Paris, of Green Ridge, Missouri.

Both drivers were transported to the Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn where Paris died from injuries sustained in the crash. The report indicates Paris was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the wreck.

The wreck is being investigated by the Nemaha County Sheriff's Office.

Auburn Fire and Rescue and Peru Fire and Rescue responded to the scene.

WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced that beginning in April it will provide approximately $123 million in additional, automatic financial assistance for qualifying farm loan program borrowers who are facing financial risk, as part of the $3.1 billion to help distressed farm loan borrowers that was provided through Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The announcement builds on financial assistance offered to borrowers through the same program in October 2022.

The IRA directed USDA to expedite assistance to distressed borrowers of direct or guaranteed loans administered by USDA- Farm Service Agency (FSA) whose operations face financial risk. For example, in the October payments, farmers that were 60 days delinquent due to challenges like natural disasters, the pandemic or other unexpected situations were brought current and had their next installment paid to give them breathing room.

 “In too many cases, the rules surrounding our farm loan programs may actually be detrimental to helping a borrower get back to a financially viable path. As a result, some are pushed out of farming and others stuck under a debt burden that prevents them from growing or reacting to opportunities,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “Loan programs for the newest and more vulnerable producers must be about providing opportunity and tailored to expect and manage stumbles and hurdles along the way. Through this assistance, USDA is focusing on generating long-term stability and success for distressed borrowers.”

  In October 2022, USDA provided approximately $800 million in initial IRA assistance to more than 11,000 delinquent direct and guaranteed borrowers and approximately 2,100 borrowers who had their farms liquidated and still had remaining debt. USDA shared that it would conduct case-by-case reviews of about 1,600 complex cases for potential initial relief payments, including cases of borrowers in foreclosure or bankruptcy. These case-by-case reviews are underway.  

 At the same time in October 2022, USDA announced that it anticipated payments using separate pandemic relief funding totaling roughly $66 million on over 7,000 direct loans to borrowers who used the USDA Farm Service Agency- disaster-set-aside option during the COVID-19 pandemic. The majority of these payments have been processed and USDA anticipates it will complete all such payments in April 2023.

FSA intends to provide the new round of relief starting in April to additional distressed borrowers. This will include approximately $123 million in automatic financial assistance for qualifying Farm Loan Program (FLP) direct loan borrowers who meet certain criteria. Similar to the automatic payments announced in October 2022, qualifying borrowers will receive an individual letter detailing the assistance as payments are made. Distressed borrowers’ eligibility for these new categories of automatic payments will be determined based on their circumstances as of today. More information about the new categories that make up the $123 million in assistance announced today and the specific amount of assistance a distressed borrower receives can be found described in this fact sheet, IRA Section 22006: Additional Automatic Payments, Improved Procedures, and Policy Recommendations.

To continue to make sure producers are aware of relief potentially available to them, all producers with open FLP loans will receive a letter detailing a new opportunity to receive assistance if they took certain extraordinary measures to avoid delinquency on their FLP loans, such as taking on more debt, selling property or cashing out retirement accounts. The letter will provide details on eligibility, the specific types of actions that may qualify for assistance, and the process for applying for and providing the documentation to seek that assistance.

These steps are part of a process USDA announced along with the October payments that is focused on assisting borrowers unable to make their next scheduled installment. Earlier this year, all borrowers should have received a letter detailing the process for seeking this type of assistance even before they become delinquent. Borrowers who are within two months of their next installment may seek a cashflow analysis from FSA using a recent balance sheet and operating plan to determine their eligibility.

USDA will continue to work with the Department of Treasury to help borrowers understand the potential tax implications from the receipt of an IRA payment, including that options may be available to potentially avoid or alleviate any tax burden incurred as a result of receiving this financial assistance.

In early April, USDA will send a specific set of revised tax documents, educational materials and resources to borrowers that received assistance in 2022, including a link to a webinar hosted by a group of farm tax experts to provide education on the options available. USDA cannot provide tax advice and encourages borrowers to consult their own tax professional, but FSA is providing educational materials for borrowers to be aware of the options. USDA has tax-related resources available at farmers.gov/taxes.

FSA is finalizing changes to its policy handbooks to remove unnecessary hurdles, improve loan making and loan servicing and provide more flexibility on how loans are structured to maximize the opportunities for borrowers. Additional details on those changes can be found in the linked fact sheet and are the start of a broader set of process enhancements. The fact sheet also provides information on the eight, no-cost legislative proposals included in the Fiscal Year 2024 President- Budget that are designed to improve the borrower experience.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. In the Biden-Harris Administration, USDA is transforming America- food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit www.usda.gov. 

(KLZA) -- Richardson County Commissioners approved a purchase order for $9,500 and a contract for a drug dog from I-80 K-9 Training Services when they met Wednesday.

Commissioners also approved a purchase order with Idemia of Anaheim, California for digital fingerprint equipment in an amount of $26,447.

Board members approved a proposed contract with Rural Water District #1 for the installation of equipment for the Nebraska Regional Interoperability Network system on a RWD #1 tower. The NRIN system allows agencies across the state of Nebraska communicate with each other. Under the agreement, the County would install a generator at the water tower in lieu of paying a rental fee to place the equipment on the tower.

(Peru)-- Peru State College will host a series of public events during the month of April for national Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM).

The month-long observance is aimed at raising awareness about sexual violence, prevention, and supporting survivors of sexual assault.

SAAM at Peru State launches Monday, April 3, with the third annual Cats4Consent March and Cover the Cruiser at 7 p.m. starting at the Sesquicentennial Plaza of the Performing Arts Center. Opening remarks will be presented by President Michael Evans and others. Following the march is the opening reception of “What were you wearing?” Survivor Exhibit at 7:45 p.m. in AV Larson Art Gallery.

Peru State will welcome to campus Catharsis Productions from Chicago on Wednesday, April 12, to present two live performances of "Sex Signals" at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center (PAC). This interactive and engaging show aims to dismantle rape myths and illuminate issues surrounding dating, sex, and sexual violence on college campuses.

Catharsis Productions returns to campus Wednesday, April 26, to present “The Hook Up” in two live performances at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. in the PAC. The presentation continues the pro-consent/intervention dialogue while engaging audiences in discussion exploring the topic of hooking up, sexual violence, and toxic language surrounding sex and gender, while empowering bystanders to recognize and stop predatory behavior.

A Campus Healing Circle will be each Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Jindra Choir Room, facilitated by Jennifer Elting, Project Response Sexual Assault Advocate. Healing Circles are a traditional practice of Indigenous people. This Healing Circle is intended for all campus members impacted by sexual assault, providing an opportunity to process impacts of sexual trauma and release stress through dance movement therapy.

The month-long observance includes the Steamboat Trace Trail 5K Depot Dash at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 15, in downtown Peru, hosted by the Nemaha County Natural Resources District.

Throughout April, the College will hold Teal Tuesdays, a campus-wide donation drive for Project Response, and provide a SAAM book display in the Library and an information table in the Student Center.

SAAM concludes at Peru State with National Denim Day on April 26.

Peru State College invites everyone to participate in these events and show their support for survivors of sexual assault. For the full schedule of events, visit https://www.peru.edu/SAAM.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office is teaming up with the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Administration for the National U Drive, U Text, U Pay, high-visibility enforcement effort.

From April 3-9, 2023, law enforcement officers from around the country will work together to enforce texting and distracted driving laws to make our roads safer for all road users.

(KNZA)--Doniphan County Economic Development Director Leah Johnson has resigned.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, Johnson submitted her letter of resignation to the Doniphan County Commission during their regular meeting Monday, which is effective April 7.

The Commission accepted her resignation with regrets.

Johnson told commissioners she plans to take a break and focus on her family before considering other options.

She has served as economic development director since April 2018.

(KNZA)--A Highland man, accused of abusing his two-month-old daughter, has pleaded no contest to charges.

According to court documents, 20-year-old Seth Ramsey enter the plea last week in Doniphan County District Court to a felony count of abuse of a child and three amended misdemeanor counts of endangering a child.

Sentencing was set for April 26.

Ramsey had originally been charged with four felony counts.

He was arrested in January 2022 following an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Highland Police Department, and the Doniphan County Sheriff- Office.

The infant was treated at a Kansas City hospital for injuries and released.

Ramsey remains in the Doniphan County Jail, held on a $500,000 bond.

(MSC News)--The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a Red Flag Warning for area northeast Kansas counties from 12 noon to 9:00PM Friday, March 31.

With that being said, a high fire danger will be present across all area counties.

A strong weather system will be moving through the area with extremely windy and dry conditions in place. Winds will be out of the west and southwest, 25 to 35 miles per hour with gusts up to 55 miles per hour. With these strong of winds, fires that have been conducted in the last few days may rekindle. Relative humidity values will also be between 15 to 30 percent creating conditions favorable for large, fast-moving wildfires.

Please do your part in not burning or conducting any activities that may cause a fire. If you need to burn, please wait until conditions are more favorable for burning at a later time.

(KAIR)--A threat, affecting the South Brown County Schools of USD 430, “was dealt with swiftly and appropriately.”

That's according to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, who says, in a release, that he commends “USD 430 on their commitment to keeping students and staff safe,” adding that “when the potential threat was discovered, school personnel immediately acted and involved law enforcement who were on the scene very quickly.”

According to the school district, information regarding the alleged threat, made against a student at the Everest Middle School, was received Wednesday, leading the district to contact the Sheriff's office, which ultimately led to an arrest. Merchant says that followed an investigation that led authorities to the juvenile suspect “who was taken into custody swiftly and without incident.” Additional details regarding the suspect, and the type of threat that was made, are not made public.

According to Merchant, his agency's “investigative reports were forwarded [Thursday] to the Brown County Attorney who was actively involved with [the Sheriff's Office regarding the case] and was consulted during the investigation and detention of the suspect, and formal charges have been filed in Brown County Juvenile Court against the suspect involved.”

The school district, in a release sent to parents, commends “the Sheriff's Office for their response and help,” and expresses gratitude to the school's students “for doing the right thing” and reporting the threat to school officials.

(KLZA)-- A Sterling man, accused of killing more than 50 geese without a hunting permit has been fined, ordered to pay liquidated damages and has had his hunting license revoked.

The Johnson County Attorney's Office said 39-year-old Jason Harms was convicted of 9 counts relating to the illegal hunting of geese that occurred on February 26, in Johnson County.

Harms was fined $1700 and ordered to pay $3,900 in liquidated damages on Wednesday.

Hunters notified the Johnson County Sheriffs Office that they had found numerous dead and injured snow geese near a sanitation pond south of Sterling.

A deputy found 51 snow geese and one white-fronted goose that had been shot dead and also found five spent shotgun shells.

The Johnson County Sheriff's Office, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the Johnson County Attorney's Office conducted the investigation.

(KLZA)-- The City of Auburn has been named a Tree City USA and a Tree City of the World for 2022.

This marks the 47th consecutive year Auburn has been named as a Tree City USA, which is the longest active streak of those awards in Nebraska.

The City of Auburn is accepting orders for the 2023 Tree Planting Program. These trees will be planted in the parkway area in the spring at no expense to the homeowner.

Tree varieties available include: Silver Linden, Red Bud, Juneberry, Autumn Blaze Maple, Tulip tree, Crabapple (Fruitless) tree.

Anyone wishing to place an order for a tree, please contact City Hall at (402) 274-3420.

The deadline is March 31, 2023.

(KAIR)--Four years in prison is the sentence earned by an Atchison man arrested in 2021 for drug trafficking.

According to a release from Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker, 38-year-old Christopher Crane learned his fate Monday in Atchison County District Court.

In September, 2022, Crane entered a no contest plea for the charges he was sentenced on, including possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute within 1,000 feat of a school, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute within 1,000 feat of as school, possession of Oxycodone and criminal use of a weapon.

Crane was arrested in March, 2021 as part of an Atchison County Sheriff's Office investigation. That followed a search of his Atchison residence where methamphetamine, marijuana, Oxycodone, and drug distribution materials were found by investigators.

Prior to his four year prison sentence, Crane's legal counsel pushed for a sentence of probation, which the Court denied.

(KLZA)-- Ag land values rose to record levels in the past year as high commodity and livestock prices and initially low interest rates drove buyers to the real estate market, according to a recently released University of Nebraska-Lincoln survey.

From Feb. 1, 2022, to Feb. 1, 2023, the average price per acre for ag land rose to $3,835 per acre, a 14% increase compared to the previous year. That- the second-largest increase in the market value of the state- ag land since 2014, trailing only the previous year- uptick of 16%.

Percentage increases on ag land valuation ranged between 13% and 17% depending on the region, according to the UNL survey. The most valuable ag land is located in the eastern third of the state with percentage increases ranging from 15% to 17%.

The largest increase in value was in southeast Nebraska with the average price per acre now valued at $7,090 — a 17% increase.

When not adjusted for inflation, this year- figure is the highest statewide land value in the 45-year history of the Nebraska Farm Real Estate Market Survey. The survey is comprised of responses by experts, including real estate appraisers, farm and ranch managers, agriculture bankers and other industry professionals.

Peru, Nebraska - Peru State College hosted a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday, March 22, to celebrate the historic Project ROAR capital campaign. The ceremony took place in the field where the 65,000 square foot dome will be. Construction will begin this spring and the facility will be in use by the start of the fall term in 2024.

Speakers at the ceremony included Peru State College Foundation Interim Director, Ted Harshbarger, Dr. Michael Evans, President of Peru State College, and Dr. Paul Turman, Nebraska State College System Chancellor.

President Michael Evans stated, “These shovels represent a lot of hard work, complex planning, and wonderful creativity, all of which is needed to transform this space. By breaking ground right here, we will convert this empty expanse into facilities that will support, energize, and rally our teams, and all our students for decades to come.”

Chancellor Dr. Paul Turman thanked Dr. Michael Evans for his leadership of Peru State College. “You have done a masterful job managing the project design to save costs and develop a plan for phasing the project over two years while additional funds are raised,” said Turman. Project ROAR was made possible by LB384 in 2021 which provides annual state appropriations through 2040 to support and pay off the bonds for the project. The recent dramatic increase in construction costs have made it necessary to rely on donations to make the project possible.

Project ROAR represents the first construction of all-new buildings at Peru State since 1980. With a $15 million estimated cost, Project ROAR is the largest construction project, both in terms of cost and square footage - in the more than 155-year history of Peru State.

The Peru State College Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation whose sole mission is to support Peru State College through receipt and distribution of charitable gifts to support the College. Gifts to Project ROAR can be made online at https://bit.ly/PSCProjectROAR or by check made out and mailed to: Peru State College Foundation, Project ROAR, PO Box 10, Peru, NE 68421-0010. Questions can be directed to Ted Harshbarger at the Foundation, 402-872-2304 or tharshbarger@peru.edu.

(KAIR)--A Wednesday afternoon Atchison motorcycle crash left the rider injured, but did not require hospital transport.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, it was 4:20 in the afternoon when 36-year-old Nicholas Mullins was southbound on 7th Street, riding his Harley Davidson. At the same time, 33-year-old Meagan Sipes, of Atchison, was northbound on 7th Street, attempting to turn west onto Atchison Street, with both vehicles colliding as she did so.

Mullins, Wilson said, was treated at the scene by Atchison County EMS for an injury to his leg. However, he was not transported for further treatment.

Sipes was cited for failure to yield, driving in violation of restrictions, and no vehicle insurance.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies across the state are teaming up in support of the national the U Drive. U Text. U Pay. campaign to bring attention to and to enforce texting and distracted-driving laws.

In conjunction with heightened distracted-driving law enforcement from April 3-9, KDOT will roll out a statewide marketing initiative around the U Drive. U Text. U Pay. campaign as promoted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Crash numbers indicate many drivers in Kansas are guilty when it comes to distracted driving. KDOT stats from 2021 show 534 crashes occurred by mobile phone distractions alone. There were 148 crashes caused by drivers paying attention to electronic devices like DVD players, stereos and GPS units. Another 1,131 crashes were the result of distractions such as applying makeup, reading, eating, etc.

KDOT- U Drive. U Text. U Pay. safety messaging will primarily target drivers ages 18-34. NHTSA research shows this age group represents the most distracted drivers, often because of cell phone use. NHTSA reports more than 32,000 people died in distraction-affected crashes from 2011 to 2020. In 2020, 3,142 deaths were linked to driver distraction, representing 8% of all motor-vehicle crash fatalities.

KDOT and NHTSA encourages drivers to take away the temptation to be on their phones. Activate the phone- “Do Not Disturb” feature or put the phone in the glove box or back seat. Designate passengers to send or respond to calls and messages.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission was updated Monday evening on the 1st and Oregon Street intersection stoplight issue.

City Public Works Director Brad Scott said the Kansas Department of Transportation, in a recent meeting, indicated they would allow the city to repair the signals at the intersection instead of having to replace them.

He said he spoke to a company that could rewire the intersection for a cost of $7,200. A new pole would also have to be installed. It would cost $10,150 to install a wooden pole and $21,000 to install a metal pole, which would require a new foundation.

Scott said he also spoke with the company about updating the control system at the intersection and installing cameras, but hasn't received a price quote yet.

The city will send a letter to KDOT to receive their approval before proceeding with the repairs.

In other business, the commission adopted a resolution setting a public hearing for structures at 913 Miami Street, 507 Miami Street and 606 Kansas Avenue, which the city has deemed unsafe and dangerous.

At the Commission's May 8 meeting , the owners will have opportunity to show cause why the structures should not be condemned and ordered repaired or demolished.

At the request of Brown County Extension Agent Matt Young, the Commission approved allowing the Hiawatha Farmers Market to set up in the grass next to the skate park where they have in the past on Thursdays from June 1 to September 28 from 4 to 6:30 p.m

Also Hiawatha Police Captain Brian Guilliams informed commissioners that officer Dustin Winters has resigned, effective April 5. Winters has been hired as the new Highland Police Chief. Guilliams said Paige Nigus, who currently serves as a dispatcher for the Brown County Sheriff's Office, will replace Winters.

He also informed commissioners that the Sac and Fox Tribe will be donating their used radios to the Police Department, saving thousands of dollars for needed upgrades.

(KNZA)--A late Wednesday morning two-vehicle Jackson County wreck sent two people to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol said the wreck occurred shortly before 11:00 at the intersection of U.S. 75 Highway and 190th Road.

The Patrol reports a pickup truck driven by 67-year-old William Proctor, of Holton, was westbound on 190th Road when he failed to yield to a southbound SUV on U.S. 75 driven by 66-year-old Linda Gorup, of Mayetta. The SUV struck the pickup on the passenger side.

Both drivers were transported by ambulance to Topeka hospitals for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

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

(KLZA)-- A special meeting of the Johnson-Brock Board of Education was held Monday evening.

During the meeting, input was received from the public concerning the addition that is to be built on the school grounds.

Lonnie Neddenriep of Johnson spoke of his support for the building project and option student enrollment.

Mark Caspers of Auburn discussed his concerns regarding an interlocal agreement while Denice Rathbone of Auburn, who is a District taxpayer spoke about her concerns of a lack of information regarding the building project and feels it is being pushed through.

David Baltensperger of Johnson said he was concerned about a lack of information put out about the addition. Baltensperger also raised concerns about option students and funds spent on transporting students.

Cody Wickham with D.A. Davidson addressed several questions raised during the public comment portion of the meeting and advised that there would be no bonds sold for the addition to the school.

The meeting was adjourned after 18 minutes.

(KLZA)-- During a recent meeting of the Richardson County Commissioner, Sherry Huddleston, Family Development Specialist for Southeast Nebraska Community Action presented a report for the months of October, 2022, through February, 2023.

During the five-month period, 204 food pantries were provided to Richardson County families suffering from food insecurity. 1,484 clients were served in 788 households.

There were 10 rental assistance cases; 28 utility assistance cases, 81 emergency supplies cases.

In addition, there were 298 personal financial counseling and budgeting programs and 233 family development cases.

Since October, approximately 475 monthly food boxes have been provided to continue to help provide nutrition to seniors.

In November, SENCA donated $500 worth of food to help with Thanksgiving food Baskets. This years Red Kettle Campaign raised nearly $2,700 with 90 percent remaining in Richardson County.

(KAIR)--A 56-year-old Leavenworth man, armed with a sword, has pleaded guilty to aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Lonnie Bailey Jr. was arrested on December 3, 2022, when officers were on patrol in the area of West 7th and Chestnut.

According to officers, Bailey had a large sword in his hands; and after being ordered to drop the sword, Bailey became agitated and began yelling at officers.

Court documents state at least one police officer approached Bailey with his service weapon in hand a at the low and ready position.

As officers approached, Bailey unsheathed his sword while yelling and took a fighting stance. After Bailey unsheathed his sword and approached officers.

Bailey then began to use vulgar language towards the officers. The did not comply with the officers command. Officers were able to eventually arrest him.

The incident was captured on body worn camera.

His guilty plea came last week in Leavenworth County District Court.

Bailey is scheduled for sentencing on May 3.

(KNZA)--A Fairview man has pleaded no contest to two " Jessica's Law" counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said 45-year-old Darin Lierz entered the plea Wednesday in Brown County District Court.

Sentencing was scheduled for April 24.

Hill said the charges arose out of criminal conduct against a 4-year-old child.

The case was investigated by the Brown County Sheriff- Office with a forensic interview by investigators with the Kansas Department of Children and Families.

Lierz was arrested last September.

Under Jessica's Law, Hill said Lierz faces a sentence of life in prison with a mandatory minimum term of not less than 25 years before he is eligible for parole. He is also subject to lifetime registration as a sexual offender.

Lierz bond was revoked. He remains in the Brown County Jail.

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is making the public aware of scam letters that have been circulating in the county.

He said the letters are similar and seem to come from law firms on official looking letterhead.

They are being sent to county residents informing them that one of their family members has passed away and they are trying to locate next of kin to pass on millions of dollars to the family.

One letter states to contact by e-mail and the other request contact be made by fax, e-mail or phone call.

Merchant said they are trying to establish a line of communication in order to obtain your personal and financial information. By contacting them, it compromises your identity and your financial assets.

Merchant urges anyone who has received any of these letters to immediately destroy them or throw them in the trash, and not to contact them in any way.

He has forwarded the letters to the Kansas Attorney Generals Office for review.

Similar letters have also been reported in Jackson County.

Merchant said if you feel that you have been made a victim of the scam, notify your local law enforcement at once.

(KLZA_-- The National Weather Service assessment of the chance for spring time flooding in Nebraska calls for below normal risk, except for portions of southeast Nebraska and extreme southwest Iowa, where there is a potential for minor flooding.

Higher snow pack in the Dakotas and Upper Mississippi Valley is expected to melt into parts of the Missouri River Basin and create a threat of flooding over southeast Nebraska and extreme southwest, Iowa.

Any flooding that does occur this spring will be largely dependent on the location and intensity of additional precipitation. The snow cover in Nebraska will be a non-issue in the flood outlook.

Snow pack in Colorado and Wyoming that feeds the Platte River is below normal at 80 - 105 percent. The snowpack across the mountains in Montana that feed the Missouri River was 100 - 125 percent of normal and the flood risk along the Missouri River in Nebraska is characterized as below normal this spring.

(KLZA)-- Southeast Nebraska Community Action will host a Community Assessment Town Hall Meeting Thursday afternoon from noon til 1 p.m. in the Stalder Gallery at the Falls City Library and Arts Center located at 14th and Stone Street in Falls City.

SENCA invites all interested Richardson County residents to attend. The hour-long meeting will focus on the 2023 updated to the SENCA Community Needs Assessment.

Discussion will be held to identify community strengths, weaknesses and prioritizing needs.

Peru, Nebraska - Remarkable career achievements by four notable Peru State College graduates will be recognized in April at the annual Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence ceremony, according to Peru State College President Dr. Michael Evans.

The guests of honor at the event on campus on Tuesday, April 18 will be Lonnie Bane of New Braunfels, Texas; Dr. Roland Barrett of Norman, Oklahoma; Dena Beck of Minden, Nebraska; and Dr. Joseph “Seph” Fauver of Omaha, Nebraska.

An award ceremony for the honorees will be held at 2 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center on the college campus with a reception to follow. The public is invited to attend.

Bane, a 1980 graduate, will represent School of Professional Studies. Barrett, a 1977 alumnus, is the selection for the School of Education. The Graduate Program representative will be Beck, who obtained her master- degree in 2008. Fauver, a 2013 alumnus, is the School of Arts and Sciences choice.

“These honorees represent the kind of excellence Peru State College is known for,” said Peru State President Michael Evans. “They have reached impressive levels of success, and we are delighted to recognize them with this award.”

The Thousand Oaks Alumni Excellence program, established in 2018, is sponsored by the Peru State College Foundation. Recipients must have demonstrated exceptional service to the College or community and/or outstanding achievements in their career.

Candidates are nominated to, and their achievements compiled by, the Peru State College Foundation. Top selections are forwarded to the Deans of the respective academic areas for review, then reviewed by Foundation staff and a team of Peru State alumni. A list of finalists is forwarded to President Evans and members of his cabinet for final approval.

Lonnie Bane

School of Professional Studies

A native of Nebraska City, Lonnie Bane had on-the-job training in business while he attended Peru State in the mid-late 1970s. He and his wife Darla owner and operated a clothing shop in Nebraska City while he was a full-time student. He graduated in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration.

Upon graduation Bane was hired by Frito Lay as an employment and human resources manager in Frankfort, Ind. His next stop was with Singer-American Meter in Nebraska City and Philadelphia, Pa., followed by a variety of senior HR positions for Mobil Oil Corp, working in Illinois, Virginia, Saudi Arabia, and Texas.

Bane- HR career continued to advance with appointments at firms in Indiana and Texas until landing a post as Senior Vice President for HR with the former America West Airlines (now part of American Airlines) in Phoenix for four years. The next seven were spent at a $3 billion global offshore oil and gas drilling company, Houston-based Pride International, where Bane served as Chief Human Resources Officer and Chief Administrative Officer.

In 2011, when Pride International was acquired, Bane left to start his own Executive Coaching and HR Strategy Consulting firm, coaching "C" suite executives in the gas and oil industry. He operated Bane Coaching & Consulting for five years. During this time, he also serves as a principal consultant for HrQ Inc., with offices in Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, Texas.

Bane also spent three years serving as chairman and chief executive officer of The Sierra Institute, a global Executive HR Association with members from around the world. He retired to his home outside of New Braunfels in 2016. He now spends his time doing some commercial real estate development and raising cattle at his ranch in Shiner, Texas.

Dr. Roland Barrett

School of Education

It- a safe bet that the song “Boomer Sooner” isn’t on many favorite playlists in Nebraska, but it- been music to the ears of Oklahoma University- Dr. Roland Barrett for 35 years.

Roland is the son of the late Peru State vice president Dr. Clyde Barrett (’56) and Mrs. Betty (Neil ’57) Barrett of Friendswood, Texas. He grew up in Peru and graduated from Peru State in 1977, bound for a career in music education. Barrett has created a national reputation in his chosen field.

Barrett was the Henry Zarrow Presidential Professor and Professor of Music Theory at OU before retiring last July. He was director of the Oklahoma University School of Music for six years. He has more than 300 published original works and arrangements for symphonic band, chamber ensembles and marching bands to his credit.

Barrett- compositions have been featured on National Public Radio and the USA cable television network and at several national competitions and conventions.

He joined OU in 1987 as assistant director of bands, a position he held for 17 years, and was promoted to professor of music theory and composition in 2001, a post he held for 16 years. His primary teaching responsibilities focused on 20th century topics and both undergraduate and graduate theory and composition.

Barrett continues to serve as primary musical arranger for the Pride of Oklahoma marching band. He and his wife, Marie, live in Norman, Okla.

Dena Beck

Peru State College Graduate Studies

A commitment to improving the lives of rural Nebraskans is the hallmark of Dena Beck- career and fits in perfectly with the role and mission of Peru State, Nebraska- oldest college. Beck is the 2022 Thousand Oaks Alumni Award winner, representing the PSC Graduate Studies program.

Both a native and a current resident of Minden, Neb., Beck is an Affiliated Funds Development Coordinator with the Nebraska Community Foundation. NCF was established in 1994 by a group of visionaries determined to empower communities to grow and prosper.

Beck works from her home office near Minden to provide technical assistance to NCF affiliated funds in south central and southeast Nebraska. Through philanthropy, NCF helps communities develop high quality of life, strong economies, and empower local leaders to bring about positive change.

Before joining NCF, Beck worked for another highly respected rural development group, the Center for Rural Affairs. She was senior project leader and business specialist with its Rural Enterprise Assistance Project (REAP). Beck served Center for Rural Affairs for 12 years. It was during this time (2008) that she obtained her Master of Organization Management degree from Peru State, in entrepreneurial and economic development.

For the previous five years, Beck managed the Minden Chamber of Commerce and Kearney County Economic Development Agency. She earned her undergraduate degree from Kansas State University. Beck, her husband David, and her family live near Minden.

Dr. Joseph Fauver

School of Arts and Sciences

Dr. Joseph “Seph” Fauver (’13) has already made his mark in the science field, and the Assistant Professor at the University of Nebraska Medical Center- Department of Epidemiology is only getting warmed up.

Upon completing his doctorate in microbiology from Colorado State University, Fauver joined Washington University (St. Louis, Mo.) for two years as a postdoctoral research associate. He spent the next two years at the Yale School of Public Health as a postdoctoral fellow and an Associate Research Scientist from 2019-2021.

While at Yale, Fauver dedicated considerable time and effort to the global effort to combat the COVID pandemic. He collaborated directly with officials from the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the National Football League (NFL) - and directly with Peru State College, providing guidance and counsel to PSC officials in its development of policies and procedures to address the outbreak.

As an epidemiologist, Fauver has a particular interest - as have others before him at Peru State - in mosquito-borne pathogens. Fauver- research lab at UNMC studies the genomic epidemiology of mosquito-borne pathogens, COVID-19, and Neglected Tropical Diseases such as hookworm. Fauver resides in Omaha.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners voted to approved an addendum to a Service Agreement for Inmate Health Services with Community Medical Center when they met last week.

The annual cost to the County will be $60 thousand which will be paid at $5 thousand per month.

The Board also voted to award the bid for construction of a shop building in Rulo, to Mezger Construction of Table Rock at a cost of $113,265 for a 30' x 50' x 16' all steel buildings.

(KAIR)--Nearly $7,000, through participation of 27 teams, was raised for the United Way of Atchison through the organization- annual Trivia Night.

Held Saturday night at the Atchison Event Center, the competition included a Best Dressed Contest, won by Melissa Sowers, as well as Best Decorated Table, which was won by the “Smells Like Middle Aged Spirit” team.

First place honors of the night, which featured prizes and a silent auction, went to Team Rotary.

According to a release, questions for the night were provided by Steve Wheatley, with volunteer support offered by Kim Bottorff, Pauline Lee, Jodi Coffey, and Teresa Wheatley.

A total of $6,820.59 was raised.

(KNZA)--Homer White American Legion Post 66, in Hiawatha, in conjunction with the Hiawatha Ministerial Alliance and Hiawatha Kiwanis Club, will recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day on Wednesday.

Post 66 Chaplain Jim Parker said the Legion Post will be installing “ Welcome Home” and Vietnam Veterans” banners near 10th and Oregon and 4th and Oregon. In addition, the Kiwanis Club will be installing flags all over town in recognition of the day.

On Wednesday evening, the public is invited to a candlelight vigil at 7:00 on the northside of the Brown County Courthouse in remembrance of all Vietnam veterans.

Family members and friends of Vietnam veterans are encouraged to attend.

Parker said the event is to raise awareness of the day. He said Vietnam veterans don't always get recognition.

Former President Trump signed legislation in 2017 designating March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

(KAIR)--An early Monday evening Atchison house fire left a family displaced, but everyone involved, including the family pets, went unhurt.

The report of the fire was made around 5:25, according to Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, who says, in a release, that his crews were called to 713 South 7th Street, the location of a single-story, single-family home.

When they arrived, firefighters found heavy smoke coming from the rear of the residence, but were able to extinguish it quickly, thanks to an outside entrance to the basement.

However, Weishaar says “the construction of the home allowed the fire to travel up the inside of the exterior walls where it spread to the attic area.” Firefighters climbed to the roof, cutting their way into the attic, and were able to bring the fire under control once they were inside.

As that team worked to extinguish the fire, others worked to locate the family pets who were not, unlike the home's occupants, outside when firefighters arrived. Weishaar says all of the pets were rescued.

All indications are that the fire started in the unoccupied basement, but the investigation is ongoing. The condition of the structure also remains to be determined.

The home's occupants, identified as three adults and five children, are being assisted by the Atchison Salvation Army with temporary housing.

The Atchison Police Department assisted with traffic control near the scene of the fire, while Atchison County EMS stood-by at the scene.

(KAIR)--A special dedication is planned this week as a group of middle school students unveil a littl free library.

The ceremony, complete with ribbon cutting, is planned for Thursday afternoon, at 1:30 outside the Atchison Middle School, on the 5th Street side. It's there that the little free library will be installed for community use.

According to educator Jerlyn Gormly, students recenly read the book "Little Free Libraries," by Laura Johnson, and that inspired the idea. According to Gormly, the middle school students' idea was brought to the Atchison High School Woodworking Class, which constructed the Little Free Library that will be dedicated Thursday.

The local, Little Free Library will be known as the "Imagination Station," and will be dedicated Thursday in memory of late educators Becky Reynolds and Teresa Ogle.

The dedication ceremony is open to the public.

(KAIR)--Nemaha County's Tyler Nolte is the champion of the Sunflower State Spelling Bee, held Saturday at Newman University, in Wichita,

His winning words were "gadzookery" and "drumlin."

Nolte, an 8th grade student at Nemaha Central Middle School, earned his place in Saturday's event by winning the late January Nemaha County Spelling Bee held by correctly spelling the word “Alhambra”.

Saturday's competition lasted 13 rounds.

Nolte now advances to compete in the 2023 Scripps National Spelling Bee this summer near Washington, D.C.

Meanwhile, an Atchison 8th grade student is being recognized for her achievements at Saturday's state spelling bee.

According to a release, Trinity Faith Hemp placed 6th out of 84 spellers.

Hemp, an 8th grade student at Atchison's Saint Benedict Catholic School, represented Atchison County, in the state spelling bee, for the second year in a row, after winning the Atchison County Spelling Bee in early February.

Also competing in Saturday's state spelling bee were Jackson Moore, of Brown County, Devlin Ogg, of Marshall County, Joshuaa Kirkland, of Leavenworth County, Laynie Tate, of Jefferson County, Maggi Emert, of Jackson County, Xavier Bratcher, of Doniphan County, and Deborah Burch, of Pottawatomie County.

(KAIR)--The latest case of forced entry into a vehicle, in order to commit theft, is reported in Atchison.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, someone forced their way into a vehicle, located in the 900 block of South 5th Street, and stole a purse and cellphone.

According to Wilson, the crime occurred shortly after 2:30 Sunday afternoon.

Late last week, additional, similar crimes also occurred on Atchison- south side, where tools were stolen from a vehicle parked in the 500 block of South 9th Street, while two laptop computers, a backpack, and a wallet were stolen from a vehicle parked in the 600 block of Q Street.

Those crimes, last week, are believed to have occurred sometime late Thursday night into early Friday morning.

Anyone with information related to the crimes are encouraged to contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KLZA)-- Severe Weather Awareness Week will be March 27-31, 2023 with a statewide drill scheduled for Wednesday, March 29th.

The National Weather Service will be conducting a Test Tornado Drill on Wednesday, March 29th,

Everyone is encouraged to take time to review and practice your severe weather plan for your home or office.

If you don’t have a plan, this is a great time to consider developing one and sharing it with others. Preparing an emergency kit with basic supplies such as food, water, blankets and a flashlight can save precious time when reacting to an actual event. By working together to ensure we are ready for disaster, we can better prepare our families, friends, and communities for these times.

Tornadoes reported across Nebraska in 2022 were down greatly from the 30-year average of 49. Only 26 tornadoes occurred in the state last year. April had the most tornadoes with 10, with June coming in second with 9.

The mock tornado drill will commence at 10 a.m. on Wednesday when a tornado watch will be issued. Following the “watch advisory” a tornado warning will be issued as part of the drill a few minutes later.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the purchase of a second drug dog for the County when they met March 22.

The cost for the new dog will be approximately $9 thousand.

In addition to being used for drug searches, the new canine will be trained in tracking.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty said having a second K-9 will aid current handler Deputy Ractliffe and Valor if there is vacation and said it is difficult if Deputy Ractliffe works a night shift to then have to call him and Valor out three hours later to perform a search.

The main focus for using the new K-9 will be in Richardson County Schools following some incidents in the past year that started the conversation about obtaining a second dog.

Incoming Deputy Sheriff Jeremiah Franks will be the handler for the second dog. He has experience as a K-9 handler.

Sheriff Hardesty said there is a lot of work for a K-9 unit in Richardson County and he said it is a great tool in vehicle stops and searches but also when searching a house, the K-9 can quickly find where drugs are when it might take deputies several ours to uncover the hiding place.

Donations toward the addition of the second K-9 for the Richardson County Sheriff's Department are being accepted. If you are interested in donating, you may contact the Sheriff's Office at 402-245-2470.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Commissioners met with Boomer Stephens, Bruce Rogers, Scott Farwell and Vann Rohlmeier during their March 21 meeting. All four were concerned about the shape of county roads and maintaining the roads.

Betty Cary and Gary Farwell met with the Board discussing the rock quarry road during Highway 8 construction work.

Highway Superintendent Chris Rauner discussed roads and the conversations about roads held during the meeting.

Lawrence James met with Commissioners concerning the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office, regarding robberies at his farm between April 5 and April 27, 2022.

Commissioners also reviewed correspondence from the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy regarding three Pawnee Table Rock Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations. No action was taken.

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education adopted the 2022-23 salary schedule for the certified teacher contracts when them met March 21.

Superintendent Korey Miles will present the 2023-24 salary schedule at the April meeting for approval.

The Board approved the weighted Class List and Honors System Proposal discussed during the February meeting. The Administrative Team will decide on the class / date of implementation.

Health care and possible policy changes to the board were reviewed. The Board will vote on the proposals in April.

The playground fill, seal and striping proposal from McFadden Construction for this summer was approved. North parking lot modifications were also discussed. The school is looking at tearing out asphalt and putting concrete along the sidewalk on the North side of the multipurpose room.

Board members went into closed session to discuss teacher contracts and a resignation.

Following the closed session, the Board approved hiring Sydney Shavnore as Middle school Counselor for the next school year; approved hiring Shawna Farr as Family and Consumer Sciences position; approved the slate of contracts for probationary teachers, and the contracts for permanent / Tenure Teachers.

The Board also approved renewal of Jennifer Daniels as Speech Pathologist for the next school year and approved the resignation of Cindy Naber at the end of the school year.

(KMZA)--A Frankfort man has been hired as the executive director for Marshall County Partnership for Growth, a 501(c)6 organization that furthers economic development in Marshall County. Matt Wassom will assume the position on April 1.

“The board is excited to bring Matt on board because he has local connections and he has the ability to manage different aspects of projects,” said Rob Peschel, a board member for the Partnership. “With his recent work experience, he- managed multiple personnel. We are glad he is willing to join the group and elevate it from where we currently are.”

Wassom replaces Ellen Barber, Marysville, who served as the executive director for seven years. Barber retired December 2022.

“When I was approached about the position, it just fit what I want to do,” Wassom said. “I like small, local businesses. I think they are very important to our community.”

Once Wassom takes over the position, he says job number one is getting to know everybody.

“I plan to start picking the brains of the locals and the other agencies around to find out what- been successful,” he explained. “I want to emulate what they’ve done right.”

Keeping the Partnership- momentum going is important to Wassom.

“I feel I can accomplish this because I can get along with anybody,” he said. “I am able to think outside the box. Things that might not have worked at the beginning, I would like to be the impetus to make them work.”

Wassom grew up in Chester, Neb., population 350.

“We’re the home of six-man football,” Wassom said.

After graduating high school, Wassom attended Doane University where he earned a degree in Physical Education, Sports Management and Fitness.

He moved to Marysville April 1999, to serve as the fitness coordinator for The Athletic Warehouse (now Marysville Health and Fitness). While working there, he met Mary Kessinger; a few years later they married.

They have three children, Simeon, Titus and Asher.

Wassom owned his own business, Matt- Wood Floor Refinishing, that he started because he saw a need.

He- served as the purchasing agent for Valley Vet Supply, and has held several jobs with the Union Pacific Railroad. Currently, he is working on the train service crew for the railroad. He will continue his railroad transportation duties while serving as the Partnership- director.

As executive director, Wassom will work directly with the Partnership- board of directors and members.

Officers for the organization are Wayne Kruse, chairperson, Marysville; Melody Tommer, vice chairperson, Frankfort; Frank Shoemaker, treasurer, Marysville; Chrystal Porter, secretary, Blue Rapids.

Other board members are Jeff Bartels, Jeff Keating, Ken Kickhaefer, Peschel, John Smith, and Nic Stoll, all of Marysville.

The Partnership is a membership organization open to individuals and businesses. To become a member, call 785-207-7598. Membership fees start at $50 for individuals and $100 for businesses.

More information about the Partnership may be found on their website, choosemarshallcountyks.com.

(KNZA)--A Friday afternoon three-vehicle Buchanan County, Missouri wreck sent two people to the hospital--including a Lancaster, Kansas woman.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a Chevy Cobalt driven by 26-year-old Michael Ordonez. of Manhattan, Kansas, was northbound on Interstate 29, just south of the I-229 exit in St. Joseph, when he failed to observe a Chevy Equionox driven by 70-year-old Stanley Drimmel, of Lancaster, slow for an upcoming construction zone.

The Cobalt rear-ended the Equinox. The impact pushed the Equinox into the rear of a Chevy Impala driven by 94-year-old David Mears, of St. Joseph.

Buchanan County EMS transported a passenger in the Cobalt, 29-year-old Marisa Lord, of Manhattan, and a passenger in the Equinox, 68-year-old Cynthia Drimmel, of Lancaster, to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph.

The Patrol said Lord, who was not wearing a seatbelt, suffered suspected serious injuries and Drimmel suspected minor injuries.

The drivers were not injured.

The wreck was reported around 3:30 Friday afternoon.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board accepted several resignations and approved several new hires when they meet Monday evening.

Following an executive session, the board accepted the resignations of Carey McFann as high school social studies teacher, Jeremy Bitner as high school science teacher, Nancy Linck as 4th grade teacher, Kaitlyn Martinez as elementary school para and Roberta Miller as elementary school para.

The Board voted to hire Hillary Krebs as fourth grade teacher, Amanda Clark as fifth grade math teacher and Chris Gray as district mechanic. Gray currently serves as high school custodian.

In addition, the board approved a change in roles for kindergarten teacher Jennifer Pyle. Pyle will move to the position of post secondary specialist at the high school.

(KAIR)--Scammers return to the basics, using the United States Postal Service to deliver their attempts at gaining fast cash.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says on Friday, his office “was notified by multiple residences of a scam by mail,” with Morse, in a release, adding that “the residents received a letter where the writer addresses himself as an attorney and a partner in a financial organization,” explaining that “there is over 10 million dollars in unclaimed payable on death accounts. The person desires the recipient of the letter to partner with him to claims these monies.”

Morse, in the release, says his office “advises residents that this is a scam and not to partake or make contact with the sender,” adding that no personal or financial information should ever be given to anyone you are unfamiliar with.

(KLZA)-- In honor of National TRIO Day, SAIL which stands for Students Active in Leadership, focused on a project for the homeless.

National TRIO Day is celebrated during the last week of February. A tradition of student members of TRIO programs is giving back to their communities through acts of service. SAIL addressed urgent needs of the Open Door Mission like collecting toilet paper for their homeless which houses 917 safe shelter beds.

SAIL members set a goal of collecting 155 rolls of toilet paper to deliver to the Omaha shelter. 155 is significant in that it is the age of Peru State College. Peru State Bobcats rallied for the cause and ended up collecting 302 rolls. Peru- Student Success Services supports eligible students in completing their college degree.

( From left to right, students boxing up the donations on campus), Blake Frederick (Falls City, NE), Alyssa Bock (Murray, NE), Bernice Hilker (Omaha, NE), Mindy Bartels (Lincoln, NE), Rebecca Traeger (Bennet, NE), Kat Frazer (Plattsmouth, NE)

(KLZA)-- The driver of a semi-truck suffered minor injuries Thursday afternoon when the semi he was driving was involved in a wreck with a Burlington Northern Santa Fe Train in Holt County, Missouri.

The Missouri Highway Patrol report indicates the train was westbound when a 2000 Kenworth Semi, northbound on Unity Road was in reverse to turn onto Holt County 340 Road and traveled onto the tracks.

The crossbar and warning sign were present. The train struck the semi on the passenger side.

The driver of the truck, 47-year old Jason Smith of Savannah, Missouri suffered minor injures, but refused medical treatment at the scene.

The train operator, 62-year-old Mark Runyan from Lincoln, Nebraska was not injured.

The wreck occurred around 4:10 p-m three miles south of Oregon, Missouri. The Holt County Sheriff's Department and the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad police assisted at the scene of the wreck.

The semi truck was totaled in the wreck. The train sustained only minor damage.

(KLZA)-- The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to take John Lotter's death penalty appeal, which potentially puts the former Falls City man a step closer to being executed for a triple murder south of Humboldt in 1999.

Lotter's attorney, Shawn Nolan with the Federal Community Defender Office in Philadelphia argued that Lotter's case would be an excellent vehicle for the court to resolve whether recent decisions in capital cases addressing intellectual disabilities should be applied retroactively.

Lotter was sentenced to death in Richardson Count District Court for killing 21-year-old Brandon Teena, a transgender male, 24-year-old Lisa Lambert and 22-year-old Phillip Devine at a farmhouse south of Humboldt.

The 51-year-old Lotter killed Brandon Teena in an effort to silence him after he was raped.

Co-defendant Thomas Marvin Niessen is serving life sentences for his role in the killings.

In July, 2022, the Nebraska Supreme Court upheld the District Court ruling and Lotter appealed. Lotter's attorney wanted to provide evidence of Lotters intellectual disability and ineligibility to be executed, despite being diagnosed with an intellectual disability under current medical guidelines.

In 2017 an expert evaluated Lotter, determining that his IQ was 67, a score consistent with mild intellectual disability. Lotter did not previously claim to be intellectually disabled in any of his four prior postconviction motions.

Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers says the state of Nebraska will continue to defend any future challenges.

(KAIR)--Turkish music will fill Benedictine College- O’Malley-McAllister Auditorium next week, as a benefit is held to raise funds for earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria.

According to a release from the Atchison college, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake devastated large areas of central Turkey and northwest Syria on February 6, with the rising death toll surpassing 50,000 and millions of residents in those areas left displaced.

The Earthquake Relief Concert is being hosted by the Center for Service-Learning, and will feature Turkish music performed live, with several of the musicians, including college staff, from Turkey.

The benefit concert will be held Wednesday evening at 7:00, in the O’Malley-McAllister Auditorium on the Benedictine College campus.

The suggested minimum donation for admission is $5 per person or $20 per family.
Proceeds will benefit earthquake relief efforts through Catholic Relief Services.

(KAIR)--A Kansas educator, formerly from Atchison, has been named Ms. Wheelchair Kansas 2023.

23-year-old Daija Coleman was informed of her win during the Ms. Wheelchair Kansas Crowning Competition held Sunday at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, in Lawrence.

According to the organization, Ms. Wheelchair Kansas, Inc. annually selects an adult and youth titleholder, who are wheelchair mobile, that successfully advocate, educate, and empower all people on a state level.”

Following Sunday- crowning, a release announcing Coleman- win calls her “a teacher in many different aspects,” saying “she has been educating others about disability, perseverance, and advocacy from the day that she was born.”

Coleman, a native of Atchison, is a 1st grade elementary school teacher, in Topeka, and a graduate of Washburn University.

Ms. Wheelchair Kansas was founded in 2004 as a chapter of Ms. Wheelchair America, which was established in 1972 by a Columbus, Ohio physician “as a forum for the promotion of the achievements, as well as the needs, of people who are wheelchair mobile.”

According to the Atchison Public Schools of USD 409, Coleman was a member of the class of 2018.

(KNZA)-The Hiawatha School Board heard an update on the bus fuel issue when they meet Monday evening.

Earlier this year, water had gotten into the underground fuel tanks at the bus barn, causing expensive bus repairs.

District Maintenance Director Chris Morey said the district is no longer taking fuel from the tanks, but are fueling up at Ag Partners on a temporary basis. He said the arrangement has been working well.

Morey said there is an 8-cent a gallon price difference between filling up at Ag Partners and having it delivered. The district uses about 16,000 gallons of diesel fuel a year and about 5,000 gallons of gasoline.

Meanwhile, Morey investigated the cost of removing the underground tanks and replacing them with two above ground tanks. He said a Kansas City company estimated the cost at $173,000 to $193,000 for the entire project. The district would be responsible for disposing of the tanks.

Following discussion, the board directed Morey to look into whether fueling up at Ag Partners is a long-term option, and compare that against adding the above ground tanks.

Even if its an option, the district would still have to remove their fuel tanks because EPA regulations don't allow abandoned tanks.

(KAIR)--Atchison County is planning to host its first county-wide clean-up next month.

According to a release from the County, it- set to happen starting Friday, April 21 to Sunday, April 23.
Atchison County Solid Waste Manager Staci Waggle, in the release, says she is excited to take part in the weekend-long event, with extended services and hours to be offered to assist residents with cleaning up the County.

Those hours and services include being open that Friday at the Effingham site, located at 9803 US Hwy 159, from 8 that morning until 4 that afternoon. Trash, metal, recyclables, household hazardous waste, as well as tires (processed with no rims) are accepted at the Effingham location.

Also being offered is a tire trailer in Atchison, and a special Sunday afternoon trash drop-off in Atchison.

Atchison County is also accepting tires, with or without rims, at the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce parking lot located at 200 South 10th Street, in Atchison, beginning that Friday.

In addition to the standard acceptance of recyclables and glass, trash is also accepted at the Atchison County Recycle Site, located at 2505 US Hwy 73, Atchison, specifically from noon to 4 pm on Sunday, April 23. No bulky items or furniture will be accepted. The Atchison Site, at 8575 Neosho Road, accepts trash; metal; recyclables; brush and yard waste; construction debris; glass; furniture, and household hazardous waste from 8 am to 4 pm daily, Monday-Saturday.

The public is encouraged to post pictures to social media and include the hashtag #ATCOCLEANUP.

Atchison County Commission Chair Casey Quinn, in the release, said she is happy to partner with others in Atchison County and hopes the April 21 to April 23 clean-up will become an annual event.

(KAIR)--Atchison County is planning to host its first county-wide clean-up next month.

According to a release from the County, it- set to happen starting Friday, April 21 to Sunday, April 23.
Atchison County Solid Waste Manager Staci Waggle, in the release, says she is excited to take part in the weekend-long event, with extended services and hours to be offered to assist residents with cleaning up the County.

Those hours and services include being open that Friday at the Effingham site, located at 9803 US Hwy 159, from 8 that morning until 4 that afternoon. Trash, metal, recyclables, household hazardous waste, as well as tires (processed with no rims) are accepted at the Effingham location.

Also being offered is a tire trailer in Atchison, and a special Sunday afternoon trash drop-off in Atchison.

Atchison County is also accepting tires, with or without rims, at the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce parking lot located at 200 South 10th Street, in Atchison, beginning that Friday.

In addition to the standard acceptance of recyclables and glass, trash is also accepted at the Atchison County Recycle Site, located at 2505 US Hwy 73, Atchison, specifically from noon to 4 pm on Sunday, April 23. No bulky items or furniture will be accepted. The Atchison Site, at 8575 Neosho Road, accepts trash; metal; recyclables; brush and yard waste; construction debris; glass; furniture, and household hazardous waste from 8 am to 4 pm daily, Monday-Saturday.

The public is encouraged to post pictures to social media and include the hashtag #ATCOCLEANUP.

Atchison County Commission Chair Casey Quinn, in the release, said she is happy to partner with others in Atchison County and hopes the April 21 to April 23 clean-up will become an annual event.

(KAIR)--An attempted Atchison traffic stop turned pursuit lands two teenagers in jail.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the latest arrest, that of the 17-year-boy allegedly driving the suspect vehicle, was made this week, but dates back to earlier this month.

Wilson, in the release, explains that it was around 2:00 on the morning of March 11 that an officer attempted to stop a vehicle, in the area of 4th and L Streets, after police were called to that location for a reported disturbance involving the vehicle.

Instead of stopping, the vehicle fled for a short distance, but stopped near 8th and Riley Streets, where the driver and a passenger both allegedly jumped out and fled on foot, escaping into the darkness.

The investigation that followed revealed the identity of the driver and he was located around 8:00 Tuesday night, in the 700 block of Kansas Avenue. He was arrested on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with fleeing and attempting to elude, along with other traffic charges, as well as interference with law enforcement.

Following his arrest, the 17-year-old was transported to a juvenile detention facility.

The alleged passenger, 18-year-old Raven Haley, of Atchison, was arrested March 17 on a District Court warrant charging her with criminal deprivation of a vehicle. The same vehicle, Wilson says, that the pair was traveling in at the time of the pursuit.

Haley was also arrested March 17 in connection with an early March robbery.

She remains in the Atchison County Jail, held on a bond of $32,500.

(KAIR)--Just over a month after Atchison County unveiled its newly revamped website, with a goal of providing self-service features and greater transparency to the public, the Atchison County Sheriff- Office follows suit, launching what a release calls “a new responsive website...where citizens can find the latest information regarding the operations of the Atchison County Sheriff- Office.”

According to the release, issued Wednesday by Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, “the new website will serve as an information resource for the public and assist with community policing efforts,” adding that “the responsive design allows site visitors to access the information they want and need from any device with simple, flexible navigation.”

The website can be found at atcosheriffks.org.

The release explains that the site “features a live Inmate Roster, Registered Offenders (Offender Watch), Press Releases, Employment Opportunities, Online Employment Application, Crime Tip Submissions, and information about all divisions and services of the Atchison County Sheriff- Office,” with the goal being “to provide transparency between [the Sheriff- Office] and the public.”

In addition to the new website, which Laurie says has a responsive design allowing users to quickly and conveniently access it, the Sheriff- Office will also be launching a free mobile app of the website, which is expected to be released to app stores in the near future.

(KLZA)-- A babysitting workshop will be Saturday in Falls City at the Southeast Community College Learning Center at 3200 Bill Schock Boulevard.

The workshop for youth ages 11 - 18 will be held from 8:00 - 2:30. The University of Nebraska Extension Service will lead the program.

There is no cost for those wanting to attend. The cost is being covered by Community for Kids in Falls City and the SCC Learning Center in Falls City.

Space for the clinic is limited. To register contact the Richardson County Extension Office at 402-245-4324.

Those attending will learn about activities appropriate for each age group; nutrition; safety and first aid; how to build a business and each participant will receive a kit they can take home.

(KLZA)-- NioCorp Developments Ltd. is pleased to announce that its stock began trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market Tuesday under the ticker symbol "NB."

A class of NioCorp warrants also is trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol "NIOBW."

NioCorp's shares will continue to trade and will be cross-listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "NB."

Mark A. Smith, Executive Chairman and CEO said The listing gives NioCorp a more robust platform for both institutional and retail investors, and is expected to significantly raise NioCorp's global visibility, and that of the Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project.

In connection with the completion of the Company- previously announced business combination with GX Acquisition Corp. II, and the beginning of trading on Nasdaq, the Company also effected a share consolidation of its issued and outstanding Common Shares on the basis of one post-Consolidation Common Share for every ten pre-Consolidation Common Shares. NioCorp's opening share price on both the Nasdaq and TSX on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, reflects the Consolidation.

The number of shares held by NioCorp investors as of the close of trading on March 20, 2023, were adjusted to one-tenth of their previous holdings, to reflect the Consolidation.

(KLZA)-- A request from the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department for the City to schedule one day for open burning of yard waste and gardens died for a lack of a motion during Monday nights Council meeting.

Fire Fighter Jon McQueen said the request was to allow the Fire Department to issue burn permits on Saturday, April 22, 2003 which is “Earth Day” to allow for open burning if the weather conditions cooperated.

Currently for a city resident to be allowed to burn they must get approval from the City Council. The Department felt if they requested having a one-day window for the burn permits it would limit the amount of time burning could take place.

Council member Derrick Leyden spoke against the proposal, noting that people can bag their yard when mowing, bag it up and haul it to the leaf pile and tree dump on the north edge of Falls City, instead of burning in town which is prohibited.

The Council did approve a proposal from the Volunteer Fire Department to amend the bylaws for the Department which will allow Department members to be notified by electronic means including text, rather than by letter for certain notification purposes.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff's Office recently received bullet-proof vests, donated by the United States Deputy Sheriff's Association ( USDSA).

Throughout the years, Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, said the USDSA has provided many dollars in equipment and training not only to the Brown County Sheriff's Office, but many other law enforcement agencies throughout the United States.

He said the USDSA has also provided many training opportunities such as active shooter and self-defense techniques to name a few.

In addition, USDSA also provides monetary donations to the beneficiary of any law enforcement officer in the United States who gives their life in the line of duty.

“ USDSA is a much needed law enforcement partner in today's society, and I appreciate their ability to help underfunded law enforcement agencies obtain much needed safety equipment at no charge." Merchant said.

(KLZA)-- A now former paraprofessional with the Pawnee City Public Schools was fired following her arrest Tuesday for allegedly sexually abusing two children in February and March.

KOLN-TV in Lincoln reports 35-year-old Kandace B. Johnson is charged with felony counts including third degree sexual abuse by a school employee, for engaging in a pattern or scheme of conduct with the intent to subject a student to sexual penetration or sexual contact.

Johnson is also charged with first degree sexual assault of a child and child abuse for crimes allegedly committed against a second child.

Court documents alleged crimes involved a child between the ages of 12 and 16.

Johnson was fired from her position with the Pawnee City School District following her arrest.

The Pawnee City School District posted a message to students and parents on its website.

“Over the last several days, Pawnee City Public School District received reports of off-campus, inappropriate communications and interactions between a non-certified staff member and minor students. The school district immediately reported this matter to local law enforcement and collaborated to investigate the reports. An arrest was subsequently made in this matter and the school district took immediate action to end its employment relationship with the involved staff member.

If anyone has any questions about the arrest or criminal investigation or if they have any relevant information to report, we encourage them to contact law enforcement. If anyone has any educational or school-related concerns, please contact the Superintendent's office.”

Following her arrest, Johnson was booked into the Richardson County Jail. She has posted a $25 thousand bond.

(KAIR)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, on Wednesday, met with the Governor's Military Council and hosted a ceremony proclaiming the day as Armed Forces Appreciation Day and Vietnam War Veterans Day, complete with recognition for two, including one veteran from Jefferson County.

Kelly, during the ceremony, honored Nobel Lathrom of Perry, and Philip Preston of Olathe, with the Kansas Vietnam Veteran Medallion. Lathrom served as a Sergeant Combat Engineer in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from April 1969 to April 1970. Preston was a Sergeant Security Force-Cobra Team in the U.S. Army in Vietnam from March 1966 to December 1969.

A release from the Governor's office explains that “the Military Council members hail from across the state and discuss how to improve the quality of life for military members, veterans, and their families.”

(KLZA)-- The Peru Student Education Association (PSEA) hosted the Dr. Seuss Birthday Bash on February 9th and 10th on the Peru State Campus. The event was attended by area preschool and elementary students from Auburn, Johnson-Brock, Johnson County Central, Nebraska City Lourdes, HTRS, Falls City, St. Andrew Catholic School, Sterling, Tarkio, Little Learners Pre-K, and the Peru State Day Care. Several members of the community also attended.

The 2023 Dr. Seuss festivities were held in the Performing Arts Center on the Peru State College campus. The pre-show events included a sing-along, bubble machines, and massive beach balls flying across the auditorium. Attendees were then captivated by a series of three plays; Horton Hatches an Egg, The Cat in the Hat, and Green Eggs and Ham. Green Eggs and Ham featured special guest appearances from Dean of School of Arts and Science - Dr. Paul Hinrichs, and Interim Executive Director - Mr. Ted L. Harshbarger, who both got several laughs from the audience. As the shows concluded, the audience read the Reader- Oath, swearing to read each day. Helping read the oath, along with the cast, were Peru State College President Dr. Michael Evans and First Lady Joanna Evans.

The Peru Student Education Association, an organization for all education majors at Peru State College. PSEA hosts many events throughout the year. The Dr. Seuss event alone has brought up to 1,000 visitors to campus

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council passed a proclamation Monday evening declaring the week of April 1st to the 7th as “The Week of the Young Child” as requested by the Sixpence Program and Falls City Public Schools.

Sixpence Director Susan Johnson told the Council said Kathy Martin started the program in 2014, starting with two home visitors and that number has expanded to four.

The program service families at all economic levels and is there to help any family in the community.

Currently the Sixpence program is serving 37 children and 27 families along with six home Child Cares and one Child Care Center.

The Sixpence program is a community partnership between local school districts, service providers and other agency stakeholders.

The Mission of the program is to support local and state partnerships that raise the bar for highly effective, quality early care and education for Nebraska's families with the youngest and most vulnerable children from birth to age 3.

An Open House / Chamber Coffee to celebrate the “Week of the Young Child” will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 3 at 1701 Stone Street.

(KNZA)--Demolition of the buildings on the old Horton Hospital property has begun.

Atchison-based Amberwell Health, who owns the property, hired Madget Demolition, of St. Joseph, Missouri to demolish the structures.

A crew removed all the asbestos from the structures in preparation for demolition.

The old hospital business office was demolished Wednesday morning.

Since the hospital closed in March 2019, the buildings have set empty. Hopes were to have a business take over the property, but due to the condition of the buildings no interest was expressed.

The hospital, which was built in 1964, employed 40 to 50 when it closed.

(KMZA)--The Seneca Area Chamber and Downtown Impact held their annual meeting Tuesday evening at the Bern Cafe.

A highlight of the meeting was presentation of two awards.

Receiving the “ Business of the Year” award was The Market Greenhouse and Garage ( The Market on Main ).

Honored as “ Volunteer of the Year” was Ellie Haynie.

A certificate was also presented to the Nemaha County Step Foundation in recognition of their 30th year anniversary.

Seneca Area Chamber/SDI Executive Director Kylee Bergstrom gave a video presentation highlighting the organizations many projects and events last year.

(KNZA)--A second candidate has filed for the Kansas Senate seat currently held by Dennis Pyle, which is up for election in 2024.

Craig Bowser, of Holton, joins State Representative Dr. John Eplee, of Atchison, in seeking the Republican nomination for the 1st Senate District.

According to the Kansas Secretary of State's Office, Bowser filed for office March 6, in Topeka.

Pyle, who has held the seat since 2005, changed his party affiliation last June to run for Kansas governor as an Independent.

Bowser is a fifth-generation Kansan, raised on a ranch near Holton. He currently works for the state of Kansas as an information security officer in Topeka.

Bowser and his wife, Erin, live on a farm near Holton.

The 1st Senate district includes Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson and Nemaha Counties, along with portions of Marshall and Pottawatomie Counties

(KNZA)--The Horton City Commission has approved the acquisition of the Horton interconnect energy substation from Evergy.

The Commission at their March 6 meeting voted to authorize Mayor Byran Stirton to sign a letter of engagement and bill of sale drafted by Evergy.

According to the meeting minutes, the city will acquire the listed assets for $10, and the substation will be transferred to the city after Evergy removes metering, signs and padlocks.

Horton will own and maintain the substation assets along with the conductor over Highway 73 north of Evergy's new metering point.

Evergy will construct a new 34.5 kilovolt metering point for the city of Horton, south of the substation. Evergy will own and maintain the new metering point.

The estimated cost to the city of Horton is $17,000.

Commissioners discussed raising electric rates or meter charges to offset the cost.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners voted to accept bids for review from three companies for the purchase and construction of a building to replace the county garage at Rulo, when they met March 15.

Bids for both wood frame and steel buildings were proposed by Mezger Construction of Table Rock, Conn Construction of Auburn and Skyline Construction or Roca, Nebraska.

Mezger Construction was the only company to submit a bid for both types of buildings and appeared to have submitted the low bid for the steel building at a cost of $113,265 and $92,860 for a wood frame building.

Representatives of the Rural Water District #2 met with Commissioners and Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. to discuss the placement of a portion of waterline under county road right-of-way. There is an area where the water line was placed at a culvert location where the line was not placed in accordance with County requirements.

Rural Water District representatives Paul Benitz and Gayle Swisegood said the District is agreeable to reinstalling the line to meet the requirements, but indicated it most likely could not be corrected before May 1.

They will meet with the contractor to discuss options to make the correction and report back to the Commissioners.

The Board also reviewed the condition of patrol units of the Sheriff's Office and give consideration to purchasing an additional 2022 Ford Explorer and selling a surplus 2017 Dodge Ram pickup. Commissioners approved the sale of the 2017 Dodge Ram pickup that has been deemed surplus property on a Big Iron auction.

The Board approved purchase orders for replacing a cooler refrigerator in the amount of $3,688 and a dishwasher system for $5806 in the kitchen at the Law Enforcement Center.

Approval was also given to an addendum to the Interlocal Agreement for the provision of Cooperative extension Services for the funding of an Extension Assistant for 4-H.

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

According to court documents, 44-year-old Robert Love, Jr., was bound over on five felony counts following his preliminary hearing last week--including first-degree murder, two counts of aggravated battery while driving under the influence, aggravated battery and fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer.

In addition, Love is charged with five misdemeanor counts and four traffic infractions.

Arraignment was set for April 28 in Jackson County District Court.

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 remains in the Jackson County Jail, held on a $750,000 bond.

(KAIR)--City of Atchison trash and recycling customers are now seeing solid waste collection fees on their utility bills for the first time since 2015.

That's according to a release from the City of Atchison, which says the reinstatement of the fees signal the end of the countywide 1-cent sales tax that has funded the operation of the Solid Waste Division of Public Works in recent years.

The monthly fee is $19.25 for weekly curbside collection of regular trash, bi-weekly collection of recycling, and weekly special pickups for yard waste, bulky items, appliances, and similar goods.

Eligible low-income senior citizens may qualify for a discounted rate based on age and income.

The previous tax was eliminated when voters, in November, voted to replace it with a new, three-fourths of one-percent sales tax for Atchison County. The change meant the loss of City of Atchison funding for solid waste, leading to the now in-place increase.

The previous county-wide tax, approved by voters in 1993 to fund joint communications and solid waste, had long been controversial, with cities and the county long bickering over who receives how much of the generated funds.

(KAIR)--A celebration of Easter is being planned in Doniphan County, with the local animal rescue working to raise funds by involving the animals in the traditional Easter Egg hunt.

According to a release from Doniphan County Pet Rescue, the Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs will be held Saturday, April 1 in Troy; and, as the title implies, dog owners are encouraged to bring their animals who will be the ones searching.

The Easter Bunny will also be in attendance, with a variety of picture opportunities to be offered, both with the bunny and for pet owners with their dogs.

The Easter Egg Hunt for Dogs will begin that Saturday afternoon at 4:00, and will take place on the Troy 4-H grounds, located at 100 North Boder Street, in Troy.

All members of the public are invited to attend.

(KLZA)-- During the March 13 meeting of the Pawnee City Board of Education, Board members voted to accept the resignation of Angela Luedders as the special education teacher at the end of the current school year.

The Board also approved a full time teaching contract with Mandala “Mandy” Goecke for the 2023-24 school year.

Superintendent Brian Rottinghaus reported that State Aid for the 2023 - 24 school year for the Pawnee City School District will be $1,126,826. That represents a decrease of $66,816 from the current school year.

The Board also approved the 23-24 school year calendar with the first day for students on August 12 with the final day of the school year set for May 12.

Wrestling Coach Shane Maloley provided a presentation on making wrestling a standalone program, this ending the co-op with HTRS.

No action was taken.

(KLZA)-- Teens 14 or 15 years of age who work on farms, or others who are interested in learning about tractor and farm equipment safety practices, can register for a safety training course offered at seven locations across Nebraska from May 22 through June 8.

The course is sponsored by the University of Nebraska Extension and the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Public Health.

Students will complete the first day of the course by attending a hands-on event at one of two locations or online through the Extension Foundation Campus website. The hands-on events will occur on May 22 in North Platte and May 30 in Grand Island. After completing the hands-on event or the online course and testing, the required driving test will be offered at seven locations across Nebraska from May 23 through June 8.

Federal law prohibits children under 16 from using specific equipment on a farm unless their parents or legal guardians own the farm. However, certification received through the course grants an exemption to the law allowing 14- and 15-year-olds to drive a tractor and to do field work with specific mechanized equipment.

A common cause of agricultural-related injuries and deaths in Nebraska is overturned tractors and ATVs and equipment entanglements. This course trains students to avoid these incidents and many other hazards on the farm and ranch.

The hands-on event and the online course will cover the required elements of the National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program, including quizzes that students must pass to attend the driving portion of the training. Once a student is registered, the coordinators will send instructions, materials, course paperwork and a link to the online course if they do not attend one of the two hands-on events.

The onsite driving training and exam will include a driving test, equipment operation and ATV safety lessons. Students must demonstrate competence in hitching and unhitching equipment and driving a tractor and trailer through a standardized course. Instructors also will offer education on emergency preparedness, personal protective equipment, and safe behaviors and laws for ATVs, utility-task vehicles (UTVs) and other off-road vehicles (ORVs).

Instructors for the course are members of the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health. The course costs $35 and includes educational materials and supplies. Participants can pay at the time of registration or before the driving exam. Only checks and cash are accepted.

Hands-on training, driving dates, site locations and site coordinator contact information include,

May 22 - Lincoln County Extension Office, 348 West State Farm Rd., North Platte, Nebraska

Contacts: Randy Saner (randy.saner@unl.edu) and Vicki Neidhardt (vicki.neidhardt@unl.edu) at 308.532.2683

• May 30 - Raising Nebraska, 501 East Fonner Park Rd., Grand Island

Contacts: Randy Saner (randy.saner@unl.edu) and Vicki Neidhardt (vicki.neidhardt@unl.edu) at 308.532.2683

Tractor Driving Days include:

May 31 - Raising Nebraska, 501 East Fonner Park Rd., Grand Island

Contacts: Randy Saner (randy.saner@unl.edu) and Vicki Neidhardt (vicki.neidhardt@unl.edu) at 308.532.2683

• June 1 - Legacy of the Plains Museum, 2930 Old Oregon Trail, Gerin

June 8 - Cass County Fairgrounds, 8400 144th St, Weeping Water

Contact: Sandy Prall (sprall2@unl.edu) at 402.267.2205

If you have questions, please contact the administrator listed above at your driving site or contact Ellen Duysen at ellen.duysen@unmc.edu.

(KMZA)--A consulting firm has been hired to help in the search for a new Seneca city administrator.

The Seneca City Council at their regular meeting last week approved a contract with Osenbaugh Consulting, of Derby, for a fee of $7,500 plus expenses.

Consultant Don Osenbaugh will meet with the Council in executive session during a special meeting Wednesday evening, March 22, to discuss the parameters of the city administrator search process.

The Council at their March 1 meeting accepted the resignation of current City Administrator Tammi Haverkamp, effective April 21.

In other business, the Council heard an update from Angie Crider of Rainbow Communications about the company's plans to expand its fiber network to residential areas in the city. The $4.4-million project will start in 2024.

The Council approved an agreement with S & S Automotive and Towing, of Seneca, to provide impound lot services. They will charge a $100 fee for any vehicle towed at the direction of law enforcement and a $50 daily storage fee.

The Council also approved the re-appointment of David Haverkamp to another four-year term on the Seneca Housing Authority Board.

In addition, the Council voted to allow the Nemaha County Catbackers to use Skoch Park to host the KSU Athletics and Alumni Association on Thursday, May 25, and to allow food truck vendors at the event.

(KMZA)--Officials from the city of Sabetha and Rock Creek Township met with the Nemaha County Commission last week to discuss a proposed road improvement project.

The group spoke with commissioners about chip sealing a two-mile portion of Kansas Road from W Road to Y Road and also a 3,600-foot portion of 14th Street from Utah Street to Kansas Road.

The group proposed they would prepare the road, the county would chip and seal the road, and the county would maintain the road in the future.

Commissioners made no decision.

In other business, representatives from Nemaha County Rural Water Districts #1, #3 and #4 meet with commissioners to request funding from the county's American Rescue Plan Act funds for water district use.

Each water district let commissioners know what projects they are wanting to do at this time and that they need help financing.

Commissioners said they would keep the requests in mind as they decide how to spend the county's ARPA funds.

Commissioners spoke by phone with an official with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's Bureau of Waste Management concerning the solid waste processing facility certification that Vanguard Organics is requesting that the county approve the solid waste permit for the possible establishment of an anaerobic digester, north of Baileyville.

Following discussion, the commission voted to sign the facility certification and land use documents.

Commissioners also approved the appointment of Cameron Swart to the Goff Fire District #1 Board.

(KNZA)--A new principal has been named for Holton High School.

The Holton School District announced Monday that Jeremy Truelove has been appointed to the position for the 2023-24 school year.

Truelove has 15 years of experience in education. For the past five years, he has served as principal at Arkansas City High School in Arkansas City, Kansas.

Truelove was among two candidates interviewed by the USD 336 Board of Education last week.

The other candidate was Dr. Robyn Kelso. Kelso, who has 23 years of experience in public education, has served as a program consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education for the past two years.

Truelove will replace current Holton High School Principal Rod Wittmer, who is retiring at the end of the current school year.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved the appointment of Brad Scott to the newly created position of Director of Public Works.

City Administrator Becky Berger requested the promotion of Scott to the position and the commission was in unanimous agreement with the appointment when they met last week.

“I appreciate that Brad is willing to take on the challenges of being the Director of Public Works, he is the perfect person for the job,” said Mayor Becky Shamburg.

Prior to last week's appointment, the Water & Lights Superintendent, Sewer Superintendent, and Streets Superintendent reported directly to the City Administrator, with operations among the department- being somewhat siloed. As Public Works Director, Berger, in a release said Scott will be able to better align the City- resources and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of City operations.

“When I met Brad during my interview, I was immediately impressed with his breadth of knowledge and experience," she said. "I felt his skills were underutilized, and a couple months on the job has confirmed that for me."

Scott has been serving as Superintendent of Water & Lights since early 2018 and has overseen upgrades to the Water Treatment Plant and system improvements. He began his career with the City in 2005 and was an employee of the previous Public Works Department.

“He has great insights on what worked well and what didn’t back then, I’m looking forward to seeing Brad implement his ideas to improve services,” Berger said.

When asked about his new role, Scott said he is excited.

“Hiawatha is the town that I grew up in, the town where my wife and I chose to raise our family," he said. "I look forward to finding the most effective and efficient way to serve the citizens of the town I love and call home.

(KNZA)- Two men were arrested on drug charges after search warrants were served on two residences in the Brown County community of Morrill.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, said the Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force conducted search warrants around 10:30 Friday morning at 605 Virginia Street and 610 Roxanna Street in Morrill.

39-year-old Forrest Gaston II, of Morrill was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, distribution of meth, possession of marijuana and possession of drug parphernalia.

Merchant said around 12:30 Friday afternoon an additional investigation took place near 605 Virginia Street, which led to the arrest of 44-year-old James Parr, of Centralia. Parr was arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrest, both men were booked into the Brown County Jail

(KAIR)--An active weekend for Atchison Police, with arrests made in connection with several crimes, ranging from robbery and theft to fleeing and eluding and an injury-inducing domestic incident.

Taken into custody Sunday in connection with the latter crime was 31-year-old Jeffery Schmelzle, who was arrested on charges including aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery, interference with law enforcement, and criminal restraint.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, police, shortly after 10:00 Saturday night, were called to the 1300 block of Locust Drive, the site of an earlier alleged altercation that police say left a 34-year-old woman injured. According to Wilson, she was examined at the scene by Atchison County EMS, but was not transported for further hospital treatment.

Schmelzle, Wilson says, had fled the scene by the time police arrived, but was spotted by police around 8:30 Sunday morning, when they returned to the area of Locust Drive. On foot, Schmelzle allegedly attempted to elude the police officers, but was taken into custody in the 1300 block of Hickory Street.

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

According to jail records, he is a resident of Effingham.

On Saturday, an unrelated, alleged attempt to flee from police sent a Bendena man to jail.

According to Wilson, a patrol officer, around 11:00 Saturday night, spotted Christopher Crane behind the wheel of a vehicle traveling near 6th and Park Streets. Aware that the 38-year-old Crane was wanted on outstanding warrants, the officer attempted to stop him, but Crane allegedly fled for a short distance, stopped the vehicle, and fled on foot.

Wilson says a foot pursuit followed, with the officer apprehending Crane in the 400 block of South 5th Street.

Once in custody on charges including fleeing and attempting to elude, interference with law enforcement, a District Court warrant for failure to appear in court, and a Community Corrections detain order, Crane was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

On Friday, an 18-year-old Atchison woman was arrested on Atchison County District Court warrants charging her for recent crimes, including robbery and taking a vehicle without permission.

According to Wilson, one warrant charged Raven Haley with criminal deprivation of a vehicle, dating back to the early morning hours of March 11. That- when a 17-year-old reported the theft of a 2002 Lincoln LS sedan from the 500 block of U.S. Highway 73.

Around 10 minutes after the report was made, police located the vehicle at 8th and Riley Streets.

The second warrant for Haley involved the charges of robbery, domestic battery, and theft.

Wilson, in the release, explains that the charges stemmed from a police investigation into

an afternoon disturbance on March 2 that occurred in the 100 block of South 2nd Street.

According to Wilson, police learned that during the disturbance between two family members, including Haley, a 55-year-old woman was grabbed and her purse taken, leading to Haley- charges. Once in custody Friday, Haley was booked into the Atchison County Jail.
Her bond is set at $30,000.

(KAIR)--A Perry resident is hopeful in seeing a long-closed Jefferson County Bridge replaced.

The bridge in question, according to the unofficial minutes of this week- meeting of the Jefferson County Commission, stands on the west side of Perry, but was closed by County Commission resolution in 2013.

Now, Susan Alexander is spearheading an effort to see the bridge replaced, and reopened.

During the Commission meeting, Alexander explained that she is hopeful that money from bi-partisan infrastructure grants could be used for the bridge- replacement.

According to the meeting- minutes, Alexander presented petitions and documents, from various community agencies, to the Commission, with those who agencies in support of seeing the bridge replaced.

Following some discussion regarding grant applications, no action was taken on the request, with the matter to likely be addressed further in the future.

(KLZA)-- For the first time, Omaha Public Power District is using a drone to conduct an aerial survey of transmission lines and equipment. Aerial surveys, normally conducted by helicopter, are a regular part of OPPD- system maintenance keep reliable power flowing to our customers.

The latest survey begins today ( Monday, March 20) and will take 10-15 days to complete, weather dependent. During this time frame, customers within the Omaha metropolitan area and South to Nebraska City may see drones hovering near power equipment.

This specific survey is part of a program done every year to inspect transmission line clearances. The drone also collects Lidar information that we can use in our planning and design.

We will be examining approximately 100 miles of the 1,344 miles of transmission line across our 13-county service territory. The information collected will not only help OPPD evaluate line clearances, but it also provides models we can use for designing infrastructure to accommodate development and load growth in the future.

Local airfields and aviation agencies are notified of precise flight paths and timelines throughout the course of this survey, currently scheduled to be completed by April 15.

(KLZA)-- Falls City School Superintendent Tim Heckenlively reported to the Board during their March 13 meeting that Falls City Public Schools have been awarded a Nebraska Clean Diesel Program reimbursement of $21 thousand for the new 2023 Blue Bird bus the school district took possession of in February.

The rebate program requires the school district to scrap a district owned bus. A 2001 Freightliner bus chasis and diesel engine will be scrapped after the school year ends. The reimbursement documentation material will be submitted to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office has been made aware of recent scams regarding the sending of intimate personal photos.

The scammers begin a courtship of the victim using various social media platforms until intimate photos are sent by the victim. The scammer then blackmails the victim by threatening to distribute these photos to the victims' friends and family unless the victim pays them using gift cards, PayPal or other digital payment apps.

Parents are encouraged to discuss with their children the dangers of this and other predatory behavior that can occur using the internet and advise them that no personal information or photos should be exchanged with people you do not know.

The Sheriff's Office has been able to ascertain that several of these scammers are based in India using a VPN to hide their IP address and are not using their real names or actual photos for obvious reasons.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas legislators aren’t likely to legalize marijuana for medical uses this year.

A Senate committee on Thursday tabled a bill that would allow a doctor to sign off on a patient using marijuana products to treat 21 illnesses or conditions, including cancer, epilepsy, spinal cord injuries or chronic pain, starting in July 2024.

Committee Chair and Republican state Sen. Mike Thompson of Shawnee said he has no plans to bring the bill back up this year.

Thirty-seven states allow the medical use of marijuana, and 21 also allow recreational use. But law enforcement officials continued to oppose legalization in Kansas and that bolstered the skepticism of some Republican senators.

(KAIR)--A 61-year-old Leavenworth man pleads guilty to force-kissing the teenage nanny of a neighbor.

Michael Moreau, last week in Leavenworth County District Court, pled guilty to battery in connection with the 2021 incident.

According to a release from Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, the case was initially charged as a sexual battery, but input from the victim led to the change because she “felt it provided the best and most comfortable outcome for her.”

Sentencing for Moreau is set for April 12.

Thompson, in the release, explains that Moreau, on September 8, 2021, went over to a neighbor- home during the day, but the owner was not home. Present were the 17-year-old nanny and the neighbor- infant child, with Moreau asking the teen if he could come inside. When he was allowed in, Thompson says, Moreau grabbed the nanny and kissed her on the lips without consent.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Patrol are investigating the death of a Tecumseh man early Friday morning in Tecumseh.

According to a release from Johnson County Attorney Ben Beethe, the Johnson County Sheriff's Office received a call regarding a possibly deceased person around 2:30 a.m.

A deputy responded and found a deceased male, identified later as 22-year-old Logan Asheman of Tecumseh near 1st Street and the railroad tracks in Tecumseh.

36-year-old Chelsy Kress of Tecumseh was taken into custody for failure to render aid.

(KLZA)-- On Tuesday, March 14th, 9 new members were inducted into the Falls City Chapter of the National Honor Society.

The four qualities embraced by the National Honor Society are Scholarship, Leadership, Character, and Service. The four qualities were described by the current National Honor Society officers.

2023 officers are Elyse Poppe, president, Kacy Brewer, vice-president, Reece McNeely, secretary, and Gaby Niedfeldt, treasurer.

The new inductees include senior; Kellen McAfee. Juniors; Alexis Brewer, Kemper Foster. Sophomores; Isabelle Armbruster, Ethan Boatright, Ruby Nguyen, Emilou Schulenberg, Sierrah Vermeer and Paige Young.

(KLZA)-- Two people addressed the Johnson-Brock Board of Education meeting Monday night in regards to the building addition planned for the school.

Mark Caspers of Auburn conveyed concerns about the building project and also about playing state basketball games on Wednesday evening.

Jim Rush of Tecumseh also voiced concerns regarding the addition, option students and lack of public meeting notice regarding the building project.

Superintendent Jeff Koehler reported that a walk through is scheduled for March 20 with the contractor and the bid opening is scheduled for April 5.

An action item on the agenda for approval of a joint interlocal agency resolution was tabled. Andy Forney with financial advising company D.A. Davidson discussed the resolution with the board and answered questions concerning the resolution.

A special meeting of the Johnson-Brock School Board has been scheduled for Monday, March 27 at 7:00 P.M. to approve or reject the joint interlocal agency resolution.

In other business the Board accepted the resignation of teacher Tim Newman effective at the end of the school year. A teaching contract with Chase Rasby to teach Science for the 2023-24 school year was approved.

The Board also approved a special education service contract for the 2023-24 school year in an amount of $170,573.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha sewer improvement project moves forward.

The Hiawatha City Commission voted Monday evening to award the contract for improvements at the north lift station to Irvinbilt Construction, of Chillicothe, Missouri, in the total amount of $2,268, 300. That includes an alternate bid for replacement of the lift station's grit system. Irvinbilt was the lone bidder.

The project, which will include the construction of an equalization basin at the lift station, is to be completed by March 1, 2024.

Last June, the city approved a consent order with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to make certain improvements to the wastewater system in order to comply with the city's water pollution control permit. The consent order was the result of the city continually failing to meet discharge limits for ammonia and E. coli.

The improvements are to be completed in several phases.

Financing for the projects is coming from USDA Rural Development loans, KDHE revolving loan funds, and Community Development Block grant funds.

( Picture credit: K-State Research and Extension News Service )

(KNZA)--Two local couples are among six couples that will be honored on March 24 as the 2022 class of Kansas Master Farmers and Master Farm Homemakers in recognition of their leadership in agriculture, environmental stewardship and service to their communities.

The statewide awards program is in its 96th year and is sponsored by K-State Research and Extension and Kansas Farmer Magazine.

Among this year's honorees are Philip and Jane Halling, of Atchison County, and Mark and Marcia Knudson, of Brown County.

Philip and Jane Halling:

Philip and Jane Halling were both raised on a farm, where they say there were both taught to be of help whenever they are needed. It helps explain their lifetime of service to their business and their community.

Both have served on the Atchison County Farm Bureau board for more than 25 years; Philip was the president for four years, and Jane the secretary for 10 years. In 1990 and 2000, Jane served on the state NER board and was chair in 2000. They have hosted a K-State Research and Extension test plot for more than 20 years.

Philip graduated from Midway High School in 1977 and then took vocational ag and auto mechanic classes. For the past six years, he has worked road maintenance for the Lancaster Township. He also serves on the St. Louis Catholic Church parish council and is president of the Lancaster/Huron Fire Department.

Jane graduated from Centralia High School in 1978 prior to attending Highland Community College. For the past 23 years, she has worked as the elementary school secretary for USD 377. She also serves on the board for the Atchison County Farm Bureau, and has helped with the Lancaster Community blood drives since 2000.

They said they “believe in working together for the good of everyone.” The couple has two sons, both of whom earned electrical engineering degrees from Kansas State University; and four grandchildren.

Mark and Marcia Knudson:

Mark and Marcia Knudson are fourth generation farmers, continuing to farm land land that has been passed down in their family since the 1800s. They said they care for the land by using technology that helps with soil and water management, and no-till practices.

“Our main goal as a family farming operation,” they write, “is to produce high quality food products with the lowest impact to our environment.”

Both were born and raised in Brown County and were members of Zion Lutheran Church, where they say they have memories of growing up together.

Mark began farming after high school with his father and grandfather. Marcia grew up on the family farm that her grandfather purchased during the depression, and where her father was raised.

The Knudsons have four children: Tricia and husband Christopher Ricklefs have two children; twins Matthew and Michael; and Meredith and husband Matt Mueller.

The annual awards banquet will begin at 6 p.m. on Friday, March 24 at the Four Points by Sheraton hotel in Manhattan. Reservations for dinner are required and are available by contacting Sue Robinson at 785-532-5820 or srobinso@ksu.edu.

(KAIR)--Atchison County leaders have appointed a new Noxious Weed Supervisor.

That came Tuesday, during the regular weekly meeting of the Atchison County Commission.

During the session, County Road and Bridge Superintendent Joe Snyder met with the Commission, making a recommendation that Road and Bridge employee Ben Taylor be nominated for the County Weed Supervisor position.

Following a motion made by Commission Chair Casey Quinn to nominate Taylor for the role, her two fellow Commissioners joined her in voting to name Taylor to the position.

According to the Atchison County website, the Noxious Weeds department is in charge of selling chemicals to land owners to spray on state, county, and township lands for the control of noxious weeds and vegetation movement, and is also directly responsible for the control of noxious weed infestations on all county owned property and right-of-way and contracts with local governmental entities to fulfill their responsibility in complying with the Kansas Noxious Weed Law.

(MSC News)--The first woman to hold the office of U.S. Attorney in Kansas has been sworn in.

According to a release from the United States Department of Justice, Kate Brubacher, appointed by President Joe Biden and confirmed by the U.S. Senate, was sworn in as the 42nd Presidentially appointed U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas on March 10.

The release explains that Brubacher, now the chief federal officer for the District of Kansas, encompassing all 105 counties, “supervises the investigation and prosecution of all federal crimes and the litigation of all civil matters in which the United States has an interest. She leads a staff of approximately 100 lawyers, paralegals, and other support professionals who work in three offices associated with the federal courts in Kansas City, Kansas, Topeka, and Wichita.”

Brubacher, a native of North Newton, Kansas, previously served as an assistant prosecuting attorney in the Jackson County, Missouri, Prosecuting Attorney- Office.

(MSC News)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, on Thursday, was joined by Kansas legislative leaders of both parties - Senate President Ty Masterson, Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins, Senate Minority Leader Dinah Sykes, and House Minority Leader Vic Miller - in signing a letter that calls on Congress to increase federal funding for special education services.

According to a release from Kelly- office, the federal government, for nearly 50-years, “has failed to meet its funding commitment for special education services to states, costing Kansas $300 million annually.”

The release explains that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, passed by Congress in 1975, “commits the federal government to covering up to 40% of the average per pupil expenditures for special education, with states covering the rest. This commitment has never been met, with federal funding hovering around 15%. The funding gap places an undue financial burden on Kansas, school districts, and taxpayers.”

According to the release, “increased federal funding for special education will allow the state to better serve Kansas students with disabilities, as well as those in gifted programs, which are funded by special education.”

(KLZA)-- March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month which brings awareness of the need for people to access life-saving resources that prevent, detect, and treat colorectal cancer (CRC). Early-age onset CRC diagnoses are rising by 2% annually with well over 100,000 new cases each year, and by 2030 it is predicted that CRC will be the leading cause of death in people under age 50. CRC is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women combined.

One in 23 men and one in 25 women will be diagnosed with CRC in their lifetime. CRC is also one of the top three cancers affecting Asian American men and women; Indigenous communities also have higher rates of CRC. For those born in the 1990s, the risk of colon cancer is doubled, which is four times the risk of rectal cancer than those born in 1950. Colorectal cancer incidence rates in individuals of screening age have been declining in the U.S. since the mid-1980s due to increased awareness and screening, but the screening rate remains low, especially among those who are uninsured or don't have doctor's offices within reasonable driving distance of their home.

Anyone can develop CRC, but risk factors include smoking, diets high in red and processed meats, obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, and a family history of CRC. Between 25%-30% of CRC patients have a family history of the disease.

The best thing to do in order to avoid this cancer is to stay active, don't smoke, and eat healthy food. Nebraskans should get regular colon screenings starting at age 45 or younger if they have a family member who has had this cancer. More than 20 million Americans who are eligible for CRC screening have not been screened, which translates to one in three adults (45 to 75 years old). This cancer is more deadly for adults because 20 - 25% of patients have some metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis where cancer has already spread to other parts of the body. The primary treatment option is surgery to remove the cancer; other treatments include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The earlier cancer is found, the better chance to beat it; colorectal cancer is treatable and not a death sentence. In Nebraska, just over 10,500 cancer cases were reported in 2019, the latest incidence data available.

With screening, CRC deaths can be prevented 68% of the time. All adults 45 and older should be screened.

For more information on preventing CRC or finding it early, visit https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal

(Peru, Neb.) - The Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors elected Julie Bauman of Falls City as its newest member. Bauman officially begins her term at the Board- May meeting.

The Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation whose sole mission is to support Peru State College through receipt and distribution of charitable gifts to support the College. Board members serve on a voluntary basis for a three-year term.

Foundation Board Chair Jeff Greenwald of Lincoln noted, “Julie will be an excellent addition to the Foundation Board. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be beneficial as we continue to move the Foundation forward. Julie comes from a family of Peru State alumni and is totally committed to the future success of the College.”

Greenwald, a 1971 alumnus, added, “Julie received the full support of the Board. She had received glowing recommendations from Richard Halbert, a former Nebraska State College Board of Trustees member from Falls City; Jerry Joy (’64) from Stella, long-time Peru State College employee; and Chris Lindner (’05), an audit partner at FORVIS in Lincoln.”

Bauman, a native of Dawson and a 1995 Peru State graduate, is the chief executive officer/owner of Julie D. Bauman, CPA, P.C., in Falls City. Her practice is a strategic consulting firm that provides wealth and tax savings strategies to high-net-worth clients who need tax savings plans, as well as CFO and CEO or COO services to single family offices and virtual family offices. Her firm is expanding from a tax planning firm to a firm of the future with broader services.

Bauman opened her business in 2002 and purchased another accounting firm in the first year. The certified public accountant is registered in Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. Prior to starting her own business, Bauman served as the senior manager for the accounting firm of Prosser and Campbell, P.C., in Falls City.

Bauman is active in her profession and in the Falls City and Richardson County area. Currently, she is a member of the Nebraska Enterprise Fund, the Association of International Certified Professional

Accountants (AICPA), and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). In addition, she is a board member of the Nebraska Client Assistance Program through the Nebraska Supreme Court. She previously served as the Chairman of the Board for the Nebraska Society of CPAs.

Locally, she is a board member of the Richardson County House of Hope and the F & M Bank.

Several members of the Ramsey family are also Peru State graduates. Her brother John graduated in 1993 and her late father, John J., was a 1963 Bobcat graduate. While at Peru State, Bauman was involved on campus, serving as a football cheerleader, president of Phi Beta Lambda (now Collegiate FBLA), was inducted into Alpha Chi national honor society, and participated in intramurals.

She is married to Matt Bauman, and they will celebrate their 30th anniversary this summer. They have three children, John - 25, Kyle - 20, and Rachel - 12 - a sixth grader at Falls City Sacred Heart. Matt and the boys manage and run Bauman Farms and Bauman P&K, LLC.

“The road to Peru State College for me was almost missed, as at my high school graduation with diploma in my hand and just delivering my valedictorian speech, I was completely unsure if I would even go to any college,” Bauman said.

“It was, most definitely expected, as my dad had graduated from PSC and my older brother John M. Ramsey was currently attending and playing basketball for Peru State College,” she added. “Being unsure, scared and with no plan for life, my mom stepped in and signed me up for cheerleading tryouts, and from there I moved to Peru.”

Bauman added, “What I learned in the first two weeks from my accounting one professor, Mr. (Russell) Beldin, was that I liked accounting and was a quick learner - which was not the case in high school.

“What I gained from my marketing teacher, Mr. (Bob) Lewellen, was to write down my goals, set them high, look at them every day and then reset new ones each year. This was probably the most profound attribute that I took away from Peru State College.”

“To take a position on the Foundation Board actually was a goal of mine to achieve and wanting to give back to Peru State for what built my fundamentals and career,” she said. “I am sure there are so many kids in high school just like me, struggling, unsure and scared with no plan. I would like to help build their plans to take the road to Peru.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education approved 2023-24 contracts for administrators Monday evening.

The Board approved a salary of $109,555 for high school principal Gale Dunkas; $89,760 for high school assistant principal Ethan Sullivan; $95,760 for elementary principal; Shelly Leyden; $98,756 for middle school principal Jack Bangert and special education director - assistant principal Wendy Craig, $87,647.

Superintendent Tim Heckenlively's contract was approved earlier.

The Board also approved a certified faculty employment contract for Allie Phillips, for instrumental music and accepted the teacher resignation from special education teacher Terry Clark effective May 19.

An agreement for Special Education Services for the 2023-24 school year with ESU 4 was also approved.

(KLZA)--Nebraska USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) along with several partners in conservation will be conducting informational meetings for agricultural producers and private landowners interested in the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP). The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) opened a CRP General signup in February, and it runs through April 7, 2023.

CRP is a cornerstone voluntary conservation program offered by USDA. General CRP helps producers and landowners establish long-term, resource-conserving plant species, such as approved grasses or trees, to control soil erosion, improve water quality and enhance wildlife habitat on cropland. In return landowners receive annual rental payments.

CRP General signup informational meeting dates, times and locations include:

Tuesday - March 21, 9 a.m., Humboldt - Humboldt Ag Building, 1034 4th St.

Monday - March 27, 1 p.m., Fairbury - Jefferson Co. Fair, 4-H Building, 56885 PWF Rd.

(KMZA)—This year's Baileyville Benefit Tournament was a big success.

Organizers announced Tuesday that $175,000 was raised through the tournament, which was held February 25-26. It marked the 41st year for the annual benefit.

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.

(KAIR)--A missing pickup truck has been located, leaving Atchison Police to seek whoever- responsible for last month- theft.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the 1991 Chevrolet Silverado was recovered Monday.

Wilson, in the release, says the truck was located in an alley in the 800 block of Mound Street.

The truck had been stolen February 24 while parked in an alley, located in the 1300 block of Kansas Avenue.

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

(KMZA)--Nemaha County has a new noxious weed director and he's a familiar face.

The Nemaha County Commission, at their March 6th meeting, voted to appoint Todd Swart to the position, effective immediately.

Swart had been serving as interim Noxious Weed Director since former director Mixie Schafer was terminated by Commissioners last month. He told commissioners he was willing to accept the position on a permanent basis.

Swart had previously served in the role for a number of years, and recently worked for the county road and bridge department.

(Peru, Neb.) - The Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors elected Julie Bauman of Falls City as its newest member. Bauman officially begins her term at the Board- May meeting.

The Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation whose sole mission is to support Peru State College through receipt and distribution of charitable gifts to support the College. Board members serve on a voluntary basis for a three-year term.

Foundation Board Chair Jeff Greenwald of Lincoln noted, “Julie will be an excellent addition to the Foundation Board. She brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be beneficial as we continue to move the Foundation forward. Julie comes from a family of Peru State alumni and is totally committed to the future success of the College.”

Greenwald, a 1971 alumnus, added, “Julie received the full support of the Board. She had received glowing recommendations from Richard Halbert, a former Nebraska State College Board of Trustees member from Falls City; Jerry Joy (’64) from Stella, long-time Peru State College employee; and Chris Lindner (’05), an audit partner at FORVIS in Lincoln.”

Bauman, a native of Dawson and a 1995 Peru State graduate, is the chief executive officer/owner of Julie D. Bauman, CPA, P.C., in Falls City. Her practice is a strategic consulting firm that provides wealth and tax savings strategies to high-net-worth clients who need tax savings plans, as well as CFO and CEO or COO services to single family offices and virtual family offices. Her firm is expanding from a tax planning firm to a firm of the future with broader services.

Bauman opened her business in 2002 and purchased another accounting firm in the first year. The certified public accountant is registered in Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. Prior to starting her own business, Bauman served as the senior manager for the accounting firm of Prosser and Campbell, P.C., in Falls City.

Bauman is active in her profession and in the Falls City and Richardson County area. Currently, she is a member of the Nebraska Enterprise Fund, the Association of International Certified Professional

Accountants (AICPA), and the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). In addition, she is a board member of the Nebraska Client Assistance Program through the Nebraska Supreme Court. She previously served as the Chairman of the Board for the Nebraska Society of CPAs.

Locally, she is a board member of the Richardson County House of Hope and the F & M Bank.

Several members of the Ramsey family are also Peru State graduates. Her brother John graduated in 1993 and her late father, John J., was a 1963 Bobcat graduate. While at Peru State, Bauman was involved on campus, serving as a football cheerleader, president of Phi Beta Lambda (now Collegiate FBLA), was inducted into Alpha Chi national honor society, and participated in intramurals.

She is married to Matt Bauman, and they will celebrate their 30th anniversary this summer. They have three children, John - 25, Kyle - 20, and Rachel - 12 - a sixth grader at Falls City Sacred Heart. Matt and the boys manage and run Bauman Farms and Bauman P&K, LLC.

“The road to Peru State College for me was almost missed, as at my high school graduation with diploma in my hand and just delivering my valedictorian speech, I was completely unsure if I would even go to any college,” Bauman said.

“It was, most definitely expected, as my dad had graduated from PSC and my older brother John M. Ramsey was currently attending and playing basketball for Peru State College,” she added. “Being unsure, scared and with no plan for life, my mom stepped in and signed me up for cheerleading tryouts, and from there I moved to Peru.”

Bauman added, “What I learned in the first two weeks from my accounting one professor, Mr. (Russell) Beldin, was that I liked accounting and was a quick learner - which was not the case in high school.

“What I gained from my marketing teacher, Mr. (Bob) Lewellen, was to write down my goals, set them high, look at them every day and then reset new ones each year. This was probably the most profound attribute that I took away from Peru State College.”

“To take a position on the Foundation Board actually was a goal of mine to achieve and wanting to give back to Peru State for what built my fundamentals and career,” she said. “I am sure there are so many kids in high school just like me, struggling, unsure and scared with no plan. I would like to help build their plans to take the road to Peru.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Education approve 2023-24 contracts with Superintendent David Patton, High School and Middle School Principal Scott Siegel and Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Jason Palmer when they met Monday evening.

The contracts call for salaries of $170,500 for Superintendent Patton, $110,250 for Principal Siegel and $88,922 for Assistant Principal and AD Jason Palmer.

The wages are based on an array of wages for these positions in similar sized school districts.

In other business the Board approved roof bids in amounts of $81,108 for area 3 at the Administration Building. $268,643 for area 1 of the Calvert Elementary School and $169,985 for area 3 at the High School / Middle School building.

Superintendent Patton said the roof work this summer will extend the warranties on two of those buildings.

(KMZA)--Representatives of the Nemaha Central middle and high school wrestling program—including students, parents and coaches—addressed the USD 115 Board of Education last week about the desire for a permanent, dedicated space for the wrestlers to practice and compete.

They shared the struggles they have encountered this season without having a permanent space, which included injuries, time lost putting down mats each day, not having year long access to a facility along with other issues.

The board was told the program has grown in three years and continues to grow.

Wrestling practice this year was held at the county-owned Community Building.

Board members said they are unanimous in their support of the program, but they don’t have a ready answer for the needs. The board decided to include the issue on next month's agenda.

In other business, tthe board approved a cord and stole policy for NCHS gradudation. Under the policy, the only cord allowed at graduation will be the honor cord for students with a 3.6 or better grade point average. The only stole allowed is the Nemaha Central stole that all graduates wear.

(KNZA)--A new Sabetha Elementary School principal has been hired.

Prairie Hills USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans said the Board of Education Monday evening approved the hiring of Andrew Lillie for the position, effective July 1.

Lillie has served as an associate principal at Atchison Elementary School since July 2020. Prior to that, he was a science teacher at Atchison High School for 8 years.

Lillie received his Masters in Educational Leadership from Benedictine College and his Bachelors of Science in Secondary Education from Kansas State University.

Evans said USD 113 is excited about the impact Lillie's positive energy will have on the students of Sabetha Elementary School.

Lillie, a Hiawatha native, will be joining the Sabetha community along with his wife Alex and their two children.

He will replace current principal Rusty Willis, who is resigning at the end of the current school year.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved resolutions increasing rates for the Fisher Center and Aquatic Park.

The commission took the action on the recommended of city Parks and Recreation Director Stacy Jasper.

Jasper said she believes the rate increases are justified in comparison to the rates charged by surrounding communities.

She said the new room rental rates at the Fisher Center will not apply to those who have already booked an event, only new scheduled events.

For the Aquatic Park, rates for a single pass are set to increase by $10, with a 2 person family pass increasing $15, a $25 increase for 3 person families, and a $30 increase for a pass for a family of 4.

Jasper said the Aquatic Park rate adjustments would add a projected $7,600 of income. She said it would help with staffing issues by allowing her to increase wages.

Commissioner Brian Shefferd cast the lone dissenting vote against the Aquatic Park rate increases. He advocated waiting another year before implementing the new rates to give residents a break, citing other recent city rate increases. Commissioner Toni Hull was absent from the meeting.

(KNZA)--This year's annual Brown County Fair Spotlight Auction was a big success, raising $17,846. That's nearly $2,100 more than last year.

The Spotlight Auction was broadcast Monday and Tuesday evenings over KNZA 103.9 FM, with bids taken by phone.

More than 330 items, mostly donated by area businesses, were auctioned off during the two nights, bringing 80 percent of retail value.

Proceeds from the auction will be used for operations of the 2023 Brown County Fair to be held July 8-14 at the fairgrounds in Horton.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners awarded a bid for Armor Coat projects for this year when they met March 8.

Projects will include 656 Avenue and 712 Road in an amount of $279,131; Project two is 633 Avenue and 703 Trail for $127,290; Site three is The Village of Preston streets at a cost of $12,507; with the final project to be The Village of Barada Street at a cost of $14,828.

Sta-Bilt Construction of Harlan, Iowa will do the work at a total cost of $433,756.

Commissioners also voted to send a letter to Rural Water District #2, that a portion of the waterline that was installed, needs to be corrected and meet the guidelines of the county's utility placement.

Board members also approved the purchase of two, patrol vehicles, 2022 Ford Explorers from Hullman's Ford of Falls City at a price of $38,863 each. One of the vehicles will be paid for with grant funds from the USDA.

This purchase will replace the prior approved purchase of two, 2023 patrol units, approved in September of 2022 at a cost of $45,011 each.

Southeast Nebraska Community Action Partnership Inc. presented the continued funding plans for the Richardson County Transit for Fiscal Year 2023 - 2025. The Board adopted a resolution to authorizes SENCA to apply for the Nebraska Public Transportation Act funds for Richardson County Transit for Fiscal Years 2023 - 2025.

The Board also voted to enter into an agreement with SENCA to provide a local match in an amount of $19,117 of the two-year grant funding for the Richardson County Transit program, and authorizing SECA to administer the transportation program.

(KLZA)-- National Thank a Farmer Week is an opportunity for all of us to reflect on the incredible work that farm families across the country do to keep us fed. That “thank you” should also come with action. We’ve got to have their backs.

Northwest Missouri Congressman Sam Graves of Tarkio says that means we need to be working to help farmers succeed, fix the supply chain problems that have sent seed and fertilizer prices through the roof, lower diesel fuel costs, and get the government out of the way so farmers can do what they do best—grow the food that feeds the world.

Missouri's 6th District Congressman says right now, one of the biggest regulatory challenges on farmers' minds is the Biden Administration's new waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule. Graves calls it “another attempt to weaponize the Clean Water Act against farmers, families, and small business owners and says It's wrong.”

The Clean Water Act was meant to stop polluters from dumping chemicals into our rivers, but the Biden EPA wants to rewrite the rules so they can stop farmers from plowing fields and building ponds to ensure our livestock have water. Graves calls that “absolutely ridiculous.” Now, some on the left will tell you that there are exemptions in the rule for farmers, but that's misguided at best, if not downright dishonest.

These aren't just petty fines the government is threatening farmers with, they can quickly add up to millions of dollars. There's even a threat of jail time. That's a long way from the original intent of the Clean Water Act.

That's why last week Graves led the House of Representatives in passing his legislation to reverse President Biden's flawed WOTUS rule in a bipartisan vote. Graves says “farmers feed this country and we have to stand up for farm families. We should offer them our thanks—and we should back up those words of thanks with real actions to defend American agriculture.”

(KNZA)--There's a vacancy on the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education.

Board member Anissa Bloom, who represented the Wetmore area, resigned from the board at Monday evening's meeting, effective immediately.

She read a statement before the meeting adjourned, announcing her resignation.

"I resign from the USD 113 school board effective March 13, 2023. I can no longer abide by the decisions made by this board for the whole USD 113 district. My reputation as a 32 year educator, community member and board member should speak for the type of leader I am. Serving on this board has changed my mindset and the direction in which I want to serve. I will be able to help my community in this challenge more on the ground level. By resigning from this board I will be able to be honest to my community and be the leader I choose to be."

After announcing her resignation, Bloom left the meeting.

The other board members voted to accept her resignation, with regrets.

Bloom had been a board member since January of 2022.

In the future, USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans said the board will vote to post the vacancy and then will appoint a replacement. He said the appointment would only be through January 13 of 2024. An election would be held this November for the position to fill the remaining two years of Bloom's term, beginning in January 2022.

(KAIR)--An Atchison attorney is named as 1st District Judicial Judge, serving Atchison and Leavenworth Counties.

Appointed to the position by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is John Fresh, who Kelly says “will bring extensive legal experience and knowledge to the bench,” adding that his expertise, and commitment to the community, “will make him a valuable addition to the 1st District.”

Fresh, who currently serves as an Attorney and Partner for Farris, Fresh, and Werring LLC, says, in a release from Kelly- office, that he is “humbled and honored” by the opportunity, adding that he looks “forward to continuing to serve the local community and legal needs of the 1st Judicial District in this new capacity.”

The vacancy filled by Fresh was created through the retirement of Chief Judge David King.

District Court Judges in the 1st Judicial District are appointed by the governor and selected from nominees chosen by a district nominating commission.

Among the other two nominees whose names were forwarded to the Governor for consideration, but not selected, was Atchison attorney, and law partner to Fresh, Andrew Werring.

Judges in nominating commission districts are subject to retention elections every four years.

(KNZA)--It will cost more to dispose of trash at the Brown County landfill beginning May 1st.

The Brown County Commission, during their March 6th meeting, approved a rate increase.

The rate for in-county trash will increase $1.60 a ton to $54.50, while the rate for out-of-county trash will increase a $1.70 a ton to $58.90.

The new minimum charge will be $6.50.

The commission also approved a 25 cent increase in the fee for the disposal of tires at the landfill.

Commissioners say the rates are being increased to cover operational costs.

(KNZA)-- A Sabetha man, convicted of a child sex charge, has learned his fate.

The Nemaha County Attorney's Office says 43-year-old Kevin Devore was sentenced last week in Nemaha County District Court to 12 years and 11 months in prison on a charge of aggravated criminal sodomy.

After serving his prison sentence, he will be placed on lifetime post-release supervision with electronic monitoring.

Devore pleaded no contest last month to the charge. In exchange for the plea, a charge of aggravated indecent liberties with a child was dismissed.

He 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.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation will close a section of K-16 in Jackson County on Wednesday, March 15, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting, while maintenance crews replace a culvert.

KDOT says the roadway will be closed between L Road and M Road, about 4 miles west of Holton. No detours will be posted, and motorists will need to use alternate routes.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a highway work zone. To stay aware of highway construction projects across Kansas, go to www.kandrive.org or call 5-1-1.

(KAIR)--A Sunday afternoon Jackson County crash, that involved an emergency vehicle and left two injured, remains under investigation.

That's according to a release, issued by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, who says his Deputies responded to 158th and Q. Roads, near Mayetta, following the report of an injury wreck shortly after 1:30 Sunday afternoon.

When they arrived, Deputies found that a northbound Chevrolet Tahoe, belonging to the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Police Department, en route to an emergency, had struck a Chevrolet Impala that had been westbound on 158th Road.

According to Morse, two of the four occupants of the Impala were transported to a Topeka hospital for treatment, with one of the two possibly suffering serious injuries.

The wreck remains under the investigation of the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

(KAIR)--Despite the damp, chilly weather Saturday, the City of Atchison celebrated Saint Patrick- Day with a full day of activities, including the traditional afternoon parade.

With Mary Perkins crowned the 2023 Grand Marshall, the parade was held and awards handed out to those who took part.

In the business division, which drew two entrants, Exchange Bank earned top honors, while Rainbow Communications took second place.

In the Youth/Organization division, the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce earned first place honors. The second place award was given to the First Baptist Youth Group, while third place honors were taken by NEK-CAP.

In the family division, which annually generates playful competition, the Pickman family earned top honors, while the Dooley Durkin family took second, and the Hegarty family earned third.

Parade Chair Janie Pickman told MSC News that considering the weather, Saturday- celebration was a great success, with Pickman thanking those who sponsored the parade and participated.

(MSC News)--KS Governor Laura Kelly, on Monday, announced the release of what her office calls “the largest, most comprehensive cancer prevention and control plan in Kansas history.” According to information provided by Kelly- office, “the plan outlines how the State will allocate resources over the next five years to prevent cancer and reduce the disease- burden on Kansans who have been diagnosed with cancer and their families. It includes proposals to bolster the health care workforce, increase early detection, expand providers’ understanding of the span of resources available to patients and survivors, and reduce unhealthy behaviors.”

The release calls cancer the “leading cause of death in Kansas, exceeded only by heart disease. On average, more than 5,500 Kansans die from cancer each year.”

The plan results from an 18-month collaboration between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Cancer Partnership (KCP). The KCP has multiple workgroups and regional coalitions comprised of oncologists, survivors, advocates, and those with a vested interest in cancer.

The Kansas Comprehensive Cancer Prevention and Control Plan outlines strategies in five priority areas, including prevention, early detection, cancer survivorship, financial burden, health equity, and advocacy and policy. In addition, the plan calls for increased collaboration to address social determinants of health and health equity.

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is advising residents of a new scam circulating in the area.

Merchant said he received a number of complaints over the weekend from county residents, saying they had been contacted by phone from someone who is representing themselves as a lineman for Evergy.

Merchant said residents are being told that they are two months behind on their bill and if they do not take care of the outstanding balance immediately, their power will be shut off within hours.

Residents are given a specific dollar amount that it will take to retain their service. They are being instructed to go to the local Dollar General store and purchase a "money pack" and are given instructions on how to respond.

Merchant said the caller is very convincing and several residents have said they were almost "taken in" by the caller.

He says if you receive such a call, hang up immediately.

Merchant adds if you feel you have been a victim of this or any other type of scam, notify your local law enforcement
at once.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph motorcyclist was seriously injured Saturday evening in a single-vehicle crash in Buchanan County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 62-year-old Danell Hawkins was northbound on Interstate-29, about five miles south of St. Joseph, when he lost control of his motorcycle. The motorcycle overturned, began skidding, and traveled off the side of the roadway before coming to rest on its side in the median.

Hawkins, who was not wearing a helmet, was ejected.

He was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, with suspected serious injuries.

The crash was reported around 8:00 Saturday evening.

(KMZA)--The Marshall County Commission has voted to hold a countywide election next month on funding to build a new jail.

The Marysville Advocate reports the Commission approved a resolution last week setting a special election for April 25 on the issue.

Voters will decide whether the county should sign a lease-purchase agreement not to exceed $6.5 million to finance a portion of the new jail project. The total estimated cost is $12 million.

The decision to hold the election comes after a valid protest petition was filed in October, objecting to the county's lease-purchase plan.

Commissioners agreed to hold three public information meetings across the county before the election, with the first meeting set for 7 pm March 21 at Landoll Lanes, in Marysville. The other two meetings haven't been set yet.

Commissioners will join Sheriff Tim Ackerman, the jail's architect, construction manager and financial advisers at the meetings to explain the proposed jail project and answer residents questions.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education has approved a resolution that would increase the district's local option budget authority.

The board, during their regular meeting last week, approved the resolution, which provides the district the authority to increase the local option budget or supplemental general fund budget from 31 percent of the general fund up to 33 percent.

Superintendent Tavis Desormiers said it would give the board an option, if needed, when preparing future budgets.

The local option budget is funded through local property taxes and state funding.

The resolution was approved on a 4-1 vote. Board members Cara Baker, Amy Huerter, Amy Sudbeck and Owen Zinke voted in favor of the resolution, while board member John Deters cast the dissenting vote.

The resolution is subject to a protest petition, if signed by not less than 10% of the qualified electors in the district and filed with the county election officer within 40 days of publication of the resolution. If a sufficient petition is filed, the board can notify the county election officer of the date of an election to submit the question to voters.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, in Seneca, is among 15 organizations across Kansas awarded grant funding to address the ongoing crisis of suicide in the state.

Governor Laura Kelly's Office announced last week that the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), through its Kansas Community Suicide Prevention Grant program, has awarded a total of $525,000 toward the effort.

The 15 organizations have received $35,000 each to develop community-specific strategies to prevent suicide among at-risk Kansans.

According to a release, the expansion of suicide prevention efforts across Kansas is strengthened by the allocation of $1.5 million in state general funds to KDADS’ Behavioral Health Services Commission by Governor Kelly in fiscal year 2023.

Kelly said improving mental health in every community is essential to creating a healthy, thriving Kansas.

(KNZA)--Two Holton residents were arrested on drug charges after a search warrant was served on a Holton residence Friday afternoon.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said the Sheriff's Office served the warrant on 522 Indiana Avenue following a drug investigation.

39-year-old April Knight and 23-year-old Gary Hards were arrested at the scene.

Following their arrest, both were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Knight was booked for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and a probation violation warrant.

Hards was booked for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KNZA)--Holton USD 336 hosted a community meet-and-greet event Friday evening for the second of two candidates vying to be the next Holton High School principal.

According to the school district, the candidate was Jeremy Truelove.

The district said Truelove has 15 years of experience in education. For the past 5 years, he has served as principal at Arkansas City High School in Arkansas City, Kansas.

A meet-and-greet event was held Wednesday evening for the other candidate, Dr. Robyn Kelso. Kelso has 23 years of experience in public education. She as served as a program consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education for the past two years.

Current Holton High School Rod Wittmer Principal is retiring, effective at the end of the current school year.

(KNZA)--Its time to “ spring forward.”

Daylight Saving Time will begin at 2:00 Sunday morning. Don't forget to set your clocks ahead an hour before going to bed Saturday night.

Daylight Saving Time is observed everywhere in the United States except Arizona and Hawaii.

Fire department personnel also encourage you to install new batteries in your smoke detectors when you change your clocks to “ spring forward” for Daylight Saving Time.

(KNZA)--The preliminary hearing for a Hiawatha man charged with alleged sex and drug offenses has been postponed.

48-year-old Jeremy Stover had been scheduled to appear in Brown County courtroom Wednesday morning for his preliminary hearing. However, his court-appointed attorney, John Kurth, of Atchison, requested a continuance. The hearing was rescheduled for the morning of April 5.

Stover has been charged 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 an opioid and misdemeanor count of possession of a depressant.

He was arrested February 26 following an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

Stover remains free on a $50,000 bond.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has approved a speed limit change for a portion of a county road.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, Wathena Mayor John Cluck met with the commission Monday to request the county increase the speed limit on 170th Road from Vernon Road to the intersection of K-238 Highway .

Cluck requested the speed limit be increased to coincide with the city of Wathena increasing the speed limit on East St Joseph Street to Vernon Road.

Following discussion, the Commission voted unanimously to increase the speed limit from 35 to 40 miles an hour.

The speed limit change will take effect upon the posting of signs.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Free Fair Association will hold their annual Spotlight Auction next week on Monday and Tuesday evenings, March 13-14.

It will be broadcast over KNZA 103.9 FM from 5:30 to 9 each evening.

The Spotlight Auction is a live radio auction of merchandise, services and chamber dollars donated mostly by area businesses, with bids taken via the phone.

You can see pictures of the items being sold and view the flyer online by going to the Brown County Fair Facebook page or the Brown County Extension website at www.brown.ksu.edu.

Those unable to call on the two evenings can call the Brown County Extension Office and give a maximum bid on the item or items you would like to buy, and one of the Fairboard members will be the bidder for you.

Proceeds from this year- auction will be used for the operation of the 2023 Brown County Fair to be held July 8-14.

(KAIR)--Two Atchison vehicles are targeted for burglary by local thieves this week, leaving Atchison Police searching for whoever- responsible for committing the crime.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, both vehicles were parked in the 1500 block of Commercial Street at the time of the thefts, with the victim reporting that it occurred sometime between 10:00 Monday night and 3:00 Tuesday morning.

Included among the items taken from the vehicles was a tool box, tools, and stereo equipment.

Anyone with information related to the crime is urged to contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KAIR)--A pickup truck, stolen in Atchison last month, has been recovered.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the 1984 Chevrolet pickup was recovered by Atchison Police Sunday, with the truck located in a parking lot located in the 1200 block of North 3rd Street.

The truck had been stolen February 25 while parked in a parking lot located in the 300 block of Main Street.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is facing charges, following the alleged theft of a financial card that police say he then used to make unauthorized purchases.

29-year-old Kenneth Gulley III was arrested Saturday.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Gulley was taken into custody on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with computer crime, criminal use of a financial card, and theft.

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

His bond is set at $10,000.

Wilson, in a release, explains that Gulley- arrest follows an Atchison Police investigation focused on the theft of the financial card. Wilson says it was stolen from a 69-year-old victim, and then allegedly used by Gulley to make purchases in January.

(KNZA)--No injuries were reported after fire caused substantial damage to a Hiawatha home early Thursday morning.

Fire Chief Patrick Sheldon said firefighters were called to 900 Iowa Street shortly after 2:20.

When firefighters arrrived, he said about half the house was fully engulfed in flames.

Sheldon said the residents, who were home at time of the fire, got out safely after being awaken by smoke.

The fire was brought under control by 4 a.m. and firefighters remained on the scene until around 6 a.m.

Sheldon said an investigator from the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office will investigate the cause of the fire.

The Robinson and Horton Fire Departments assisted in battling the blaze. Also assisting at the scene were Town and County EMS, Squad 48, Hiawatha Police Department and Brown County Sheriff's Office.

(KNZA)--The Holton USD 336 Board of Education interviewed the first of two candidates vying to be the next Holton High School principal Wednesday evening.

The school district announced the candidate was Dr. Robyn Kelso, who has 23 years of experience in public education.

Kelso has served the past two years as program consultant for the Kansas State Department of Education. She previously served as assistant high school principal for Fort Scott USD 234 for two years. In addition, she taught high school social studies at Eudora USD 491 and Olathe USD 233 for a combined 20 years.

Patrons had an opportunity to meet Kelso during a community meet-and-greet event Wednesday evening.

Holton USD 336 also plans to host another commuity meet-and-greet event Friday evening from 6:00 to 6:45 at the Holton High School Library for another candidate for the principal position. The name of the candidate and their bio will be announced on the school district's Facebook page Friday morning.

Current Holton High School Principal Rod Wittmer has announced his retirement, effective at the end of the current school year.

(KNZA)--A new Horton Elementary School principal has been hired.

The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education Monday evening approved the hiring of Rainey Auen for the position.

USD 430 Superintendent Jason Cline said Auen brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the school district. He said she has worked in education for over 25 years, with a focus on special education. Auen is a retired educator from Wyoming who currently works for Keystone Learning Services providing support to Effingham USD 377.

“ We are fortunate that she has decided to join our family. Rainey has a passion for helping all students succeed and has dedicated her career to ensuring students have access to quality education. Her experience and expertise will be invaluable to our school as we work together to support the academic, social and emotional growth of our students.” said Cline.

Auen will begin work August 1, replacing longtime Horton Elementary School Principal Judy Dickman who is retiring at the end of the current school year.

(KNZA)--A Brown County traffic stop Tuesday evening led to the arrest of a Robinson man on drug charges.

According to a report from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, a sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle in the vicinity of U.S. 36 Highway and Goldfinch Road around 7:30.

Upon contact with the driver, identified as 38-year-old Andrew Armstrong, Merchant said it was discovered the vehicle's registration was expired and Armstrong's license was suspended.

He was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, illegal registration and driving while suspended.

Armstrong is currently free after posting bond Wednesday.

( KNZA)-- The two suspects arrested after a pursuit following an alleged burglary near Delia in Jackson County Monday have been identified.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release Tuesday, said arrested were the driver, 45-year-old Christopher Keinsmith, of St. Mary's, and his passenger, 27-year-old Marc Nichols, of Rossville.

Keinsmith was arrested for burglary, criminal trespassing, and felony fleeing and eluding.

Nichols was arrested for burglary and a probation violation. In addition, he was also wanted on outstanding warrants.

Following their arrest, both men were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

The Jackson County Sheriff- Office received a report of a possible burglary in progress in the 28-hundred block of 102nd Road, about a 1/2 mile south of the City of Delia, Monday afternoon. The caller reported a white Jeep on the property.

Morse said the Jeep allegedly fled from the first arriving sheriff- deputy and a pursuit ensued.

The pursuit ended in Pottawatomie County after Keinsmith lost control of the vehicle and left the roadway at a T intersection at Doyle Creek and Pleasant View Roads.

The 2002 Jeep, which was owned by Keinsmith, caught fire as did the surrounding field. The Jeep and its contents were destroyed.

(KNZA)--No injuries were reported after a trailer house in Sabetha was destroyed by fire this past weekend.

The Sabetha Fire Department responded to the fire located at 318 South Fifth Street, Lot two, shortly before 7:00 Saturday evening.

Upon arrival, the Department in a post on its Facebook page said firefighters found the trailer house fully engulfed in flames. The department said no one was home at the time of the fire.

While no injuries were reported, two dogs did perish in the fire.

An investigation by the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office deemed the fire electrical in nature and cause unknown.

(KLZA) -- Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested an Illinois man following a foot pursuit in Pawnee County.

The incident occurred Monday at approximately 10:35 a.m. when a trooper attempted a traffic stop on a Dodge Magnum for speeding on Highway 8, near Pawnee City. As the trooper attempted the traffic stop, the driver refused to stop, entered a rural driveway, a jumped from the vehicle as it was still moving. The driver then fled on foot and the trooper pursued.

After a short foot pursuit around a farm property the trooper was able to the take the driver into custody. A search of the vehicle revealed four firearms, including a short barrel rifle, more than 200 rounds of ammunition, 32 grams of cocaine, 144 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, and 214 grams of marijuana.

The driver, Jesse Starry, 40, of Chillicothe, Illinois, was arrested for possession of controlled substances, possession with intent to deliver, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of a short barrel rifle, carrying a concealed firearm, and other charges. Starry was lodged in Johnson County Jail.

( KLZA) -- The Falls City Volunteer Fire Department will begin phase II of sandblasting and painting the fire hydrants in town.

Last year the company they hired by them started on the South end of town sandblasting and repainted over 90 hydrants including all on 16th street. The company now plans to start on March 13th and subject to weather, complete the rest of them by April 1st.

They will start on East 17th street and work North to 35th street. The City of Falls City is working in collaboration with the volunteers on this project. With around 211 fire hydrants, this has been a large project for the Fire Department. We ask that you don’t park vehicles near the hydrants if you see them working in your area, this will allow access of the sandblasting equipment to get close to the fire hydrants.

If possible please remove any tall grasses, flowers, weeds to aid in this process as they will be painted Red when done sandblasting.

The Volunteer Fire Department will later color code the tops indicating the water flow for that hydrant.

CENTENNIAL, Colo. - NioCorp Developments Ltd. ("NioCorp" or the "Company") (TSX:NB) (OTCQX:NIOBF) is pleased to announce the receipt of a Letter of Interest from the Export-Import Bank of the United States ("EXIM") for potential debt financing of up to $800 million through EXIM's "Make More In America” initiative to fund the project costs of NioCorp's proposed Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project.

EXIM's communication to NioCorp states: "We are pleased to extend this Letter of Interest in support of the proposed capital funding plan by Elk Creek Resources Corp. for the Elk Creek Project. Based on the preliminary information submitted on expected exports and jobs supported, EXIM may be able to consider potential financing of up to $800,000,000.00 of the project's costs under EXIM's Make More In America initiative." Elk Creek Resources Corp. is a Nebraska corporation wholly owned by NioCorp.

A project finance letter of interest from EXIM represents only a preliminary step in the formal EXIM application process, and the Letter of Interest states that the communication "does not represent a financing commitment" and "is not an explicit indication of the financial or commercial viability of a transaction."

NioCorp expects to submit an application to EXIM to begin the first phase of the underwriting process (“Phase I”) as soon as possible. As stated in the Letter of Interest, "Upon receipt of NioCorp's application for financing, EXIM will conduct all requisite due diligence necessary to determine if a Final Commitment may be issued for this transaction.” The process from submission of a Phase I application to a final commitment of financing by EXIM, if any, is expected to take approximately six to nine months and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. See “About NioCorp- Application Process” and “Forward-Looking Statements Disclaimers” below for additional information.

As explained in the Letter of Interest, “Any final commitment will be dependent on meeting EXIM's underwriting criteria, authorization process, and finalization and satisfaction of terms and conditions. All Final Commitments must be in compliance with EXIM policies as well as program, legal, and eligibility requirements."

"We are very pleased with this Letter of Interest from the Export-Import Bank of the United States for NioCorp's Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project, and with the fact that we may qualify for as much as $800 million in debt financing from EXIM," said Mark A. Smith, Chairman and CEO of NioCorp. "We look forward to finalizing and submitting a formal loan application to EXIM and working closely with them through this process."

The debt financing is subject to the satisfactory completion of due diligence, the negotiation and settlement of final terms, and the negotiation of definitive documentation. There can be no assurance that the debt financing will be completed on the terms as described above or at all.

As noted on EXIM's website, in February 2021, President Biden signed Executive Order 14017 directing an all-of-government approach to assessing vulnerabilities in - and strengthening the resilience of - the United States’ critical supply chains. From that Executive Order, the White House released findings from its comprehensive 100-day supply chain assessments for four critical products: semiconductor manufacturing and advanced packaging; large capacity batteries, like those for electric vehicles; critical minerals and materials; and pharmaceuticals and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

(KAIR)--Atchison- water emergency officially comes to an end, following action of the Atchison City Commission Monday.

During Monday- meeting of the Commission, a resolution, declaring an end to the water emergency, was adopted.

According to the City, the declaration of water emergency in late December was made in response to extremely low Missouri River levels which had compromised the ability of the City to draw water from the Missouri River. The record low river levels were

primarily due to the formation of ice jams upstream, which finally broke loose and passed by Atchison in mid-February.

The City says river levels are now at a point that the intake facility has resumed use of the primary pumps, and the emergency pumps, made necessary due to the former low levels, have been removed from service.

(KNZA)--Details are sketchy surrounding a Brown County injury wreck Friday afternoon.

According to Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, the wreck was reported around 1:15 in the vicinity of 220th and Raccoon Roads.

Merchant said Life Net helicopter transported the driver for hospitalized treatment due to injuries sustained from the crash.

He said multiple emergency responders assisted at the scene.

No other details are available at this time.

(KAIR)--2022 Atchison excellence was celebrated Saturday, as the Locally Atchison Chamber Annual Dinner was held that evening at the Atchison Event Center.

The dinner is held each year to recognize Atchison business success, and other achievements, through an awards ceremony, which came after dinner had been served Saturday evening.

Named as Entrepreneurs of the Year during the awards ceremony were Ashley Gill and Shanae Randolph, founders of Purveyor, a modern-day general store, in downtown Atchison.

The Volunteer of the Year award was presented to Pauline Lee, while the Employee Innovator honor was given to StressCrete.

The Business of the Year award, annually serving as the dinner- top honor, was presented to Crittendon Home Care.

(KNZA)--Two local, northeast Kansas bridge projects are among bids approved by the Kansas Department of Transportation. T

The bids, for state highway construction and maintenance projects, were opened February 15, in Topeka.

Among those projects is the replacement of a Doniphan County bridge, located over Peters Creek, on old U.S. Highway 36, 2 miles east of Troy. The replacement contract is awarded to B & B Bridge Company LLC, of Saint Paul, Kansas, at a cost of $819,993.

A Nemaha County bridge replacement was also included among the bids. According to KDOT, set for replacement is bridge #16, located over Spring Creek Drainage, 6.5 miles east of the K-9/K-62 junction. Ebert Construction Company Inc & Subsidiary, of Wamego, Kansas, was awarded the $1,158,262 construction contract.

A timeline of the work on the bridge projects isn’t immediately available.

(KNZA)--The Holton USD 336 Board of Education will be interviewing two candidates for the position of high school principal this week.

The school district will be holding Community Meet-and-Greet sessions Wednesday and Friday evenings from 6:00 to 6:45 each evening at the Holton High School Library to allow patrons an opportunity to meet the candidates.

The candidates names and bios will be announced each day on the school district's Facebook page.

(KNZA)--The former Horton Hospital building is being prepared for demolition.

A crew is currently working on removing all the asbestos from the structure.

Atchison-based Amberwell Health, who owns the property, has hired Madget Demolition, of St. Joseph, Missouri, to demolish the structure.

Demolition to start at the end of the month or the first part of April.

Since the hospital closed in March 2019 the building has set empty. Hopes were to have a business take over the facility, but due to the condition of the building it would be a very expensive venture.

The hospital, which was built in 1964, employed 40 to 50 when it closed.

(KNZA)--A Horton man has pleaded guilty to a charge in a Brown County child sex case.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said 47-year-old Richard VanLaningham entered the plea Monday in Brown County District to one count of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, an off-grid person felony.

Sentencing was set for April 3.

Under Jessica's Law, Hill said VanLaningham faces a sentence of life imprisonment with a mandatory minimum term of not less than 25 years.

He said the case arose out of an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff- Office and a forensic interview by an investigator with the Kansas Department for Children and Families. Hill said the case involved criminal conduct against an 11-year-old child.

VanLaningham was arrested last July.

He remains in the Brown County Jail.

(KNZA)--Two arrests are made following a Jackson County pursuit that stemmed from a reported possible burglary in progress.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, says the report was for 2830 102nd Road, about a half-mile south of Delia.

A Sheriff- Deputy arrived on the scene, shortly after 12:20 Monday afternoon, and spotted a white Jeep fleeing on the property.

The Jeep, Morse says, “turned south at a high rate of speed and made its way back to 102nd Road” where Morse attempted to stop the Jeep, which instead went westbound on 102nd Road, continuing down several low maintenance roads and into Pottawatomie County, west of 63 Highway. Eventually, the vehicle left the roadway at Doyle Creek and Pleasant View Road, in Pottawatomie County.

Two occupants of the Jeep, which caught fire, as did the surrounding field, were both taken into custody.

Their names are not immediately made public.

Morse says assistance was provided to his office by the Pottawatomie County Sheriff, Fire, and Emergency Management, as well as the Kansas Highway Patrol.

(KAIR)--A teenager is facing charges in connection to an alleged attempt to flee from Atchison Police.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, an officer attempted to stop the Chevrolet Monte Carlo, allegedly driven by the 17-year-old boy, shortly after midnight Sunday in the 200 block of North 5th Street. According to Wilson, the stop was being made for traffic violations.

However, the vehicle failed to stop, instead fleeing from the officer and making his way into Atchison County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol and the Atchison County Sheriff- Office assisted with the search for the suspect vehicle, with a deputy and trooper able to take the driver into custody.

Wilson says the teen was arrested on charges for fleeing and attempting to elude, reckless driving, no vehicle tag, and other traffic charges.

Following his arrest, the teen was released to a guardian.

(KLZA)-- A resurfacing project on several routes in Holt, and Atchison counties is scheduled to resume this week.

Herzog Contracting Corp., began the project in the fall of 2022, completing six of the 11 routes.

Resurfacing of the five remaining routes will begin with Holt County Route T.

Beginning Monday, March 6, Holt County Route T will be closed daily in segments up to 2 miles in length through Monday, March 13. Travelers will need to seek an alternative route during the intermittent closures.

Among the remaining routes: Holt Route DD, and Atchison Route EE are expected to begin later this spring. All routes are anticipated to be completed in July.

(KLZA)-- Dr. Richard Clopton, a Professor of Biology and Downey Family Honors Chair at Peru State College, was the recipient of the Clark P. Read Mentor Award from the American Society of Parasitologists in College Station, Texas, in July of 2022. Dr. Joanna J. Cielocha, Associate Professor of Biology at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri, presented the award. Dr. Cielocha is a former Peru state graduate, faculty member, and mentee of Dr. Clopton.

Dr. Clopton is the 19th recipient of the Clark P. Read Mentor Award and “the first to be recognized for mentoring primarily in an undergraduate institution.

Dr. Clopton “has mentored 41 undergraduate students in his research program. These graduates have served as co-authors or lead authors on 17 manuscripts … and 32 of the 41 students …. have gone on to pursue graduate-level education.

Dr. Clopton attended the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, where he earned his bachelor's degree in Agriculture and Entomology, master's degree in Entomology, and Doctoral degree in Parasitology.

Dr. Clopton conducted his post-doctoral research in the Department of Entomology at Texas A & M University before coming to Peru State in 1995 to teach, conduct research, and create an undergraduate research program. Dr. Clopton currently “teaches … serves as an advisor to biology majors and has other service-related obligations. He is credited with over 60 scientific publications and has presented papers and spoken at numerous seminars throughout his career. In 2017 Dr. Clopton received the Barb Lewellen Award, which honors an outstanding faculty, staff member, or administrator who has distinguished themself through the betterment of students and student life at Peru State College. He received the Peru State College Teaching Excellence Award in both 2017 and 2004 and was named the Downey Family Honors Chair in Science in 2002.

(KLZA)-- A Saturday afternoon wreck in the southbound lane of Interstate 29 in Buchanan County, Missouri sent three people to the hospital with various degrees of injuries.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports the wreck occurred about 12:15 when three vehicles were stopped on southbound I-29 due to slowed traffic in a work zone to their south.

A pickup driven by 47-year-old Roy Allison Jr. of Beatrice, Nebraska failed to stop for the congested traffic and struck the rear of a Ford Focus operated by 20-year-old Blake Ommen from Parkville, Missouri, causing the car to hit the rear of a Toyota Corola operated by 41-year-old Neil Baker of Omaha, which in turn struck the rear of an Acura RDX operated by 65-year-old Deborah Smith of Country Club, Village, Missouri.

The Buchanan County EMS transferred Roy Allison Jr. of Beatrice, the driver of the pickup, who suffered serious injuries, a passenger in the pickup, 22-year-old Austin Beck who suffered moderate injuries and 20-year-old Blake Ommen who suffered serious injuries to the Mosaic Life Care Center in St. Joseph.

All four of the vehicles involved in the wreck were totaled.

(KMZA)--Seneca City Administrator Tammi Haverkamp has resigned.

The Seneca City Council, during their regular meeting last week, voted 6-1 to accept Haverkamp's letter of resignation. Council member Alice Lackey cast the lone dissenting vote.

Haverkamp said she was voluntarily resigning from the position, effective April 21.

She has served two stints as city administrator. Her current stint began in April 2021. Haverkamp previously served as city administrator from March 2008 through early 2013.

Haverkamp offered the following comments: "The mayor, council, and city employees made much progress together during my time serving the City. The community is fortunate to have a solid group of individuals working to preserve the quality of life we enjoy in Seneca, and it was an honor for me to work with these people. I will continue to offer whatever support I am able during this time of transition."

In other business, the Council approved the purchase of a new vehicle for the Police Department. The Council voted to accept the low bid submitted by Nemaha Valley Motors for a 2023 Dodge Durango in the total amount of $44,440 after accessories. The bid includes the trade-in of a 2013 Dodge Ram. The bid was among two received.

In addition, the Council voted to award Hammes Trucking the bid for the hauling of materials in 2023. The company will charge $6 per ton to haul materials from Dubois, Nebraska and $20 a ton from New Market, Missouri to Seneca. It was among two bids received.

(KNZA)--A Marysville man, accused of killing his wife on Thanksgiving day 2022, waived his right to a preliminary hearing Friday.

Gerald Brown was bound over the Marshall County District Court on a charge of first-degree murder.

Arraignment was scheduled for April 4th.

Authorities responded to a 911 call early November 24 at 1070 Granite Road in Marysville where they found 57-year-old Jennifer Brown dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Her husband was taken into custody at the scene.

Brown remains in the Marshall County Jail, held on a $1 million bond.

A Marysville man, accused of killing his wife on Thanksgiving day 2022, waived his right to a preliminary hearing Friday. Gerald Brown was bound over the Marshall County District Court on a charge of first-degree murder. Arraignment was scheduled for April 4th. Authorities responded to a 911 call early November 24 at 1070 Granite Road in Marysville where they found 57-year-old Jennifer Brown dead from apparent gunshot wounds. Her husband was taken into custody at the scene. Brown remains in the Marshall County Jail, held on a $1 million bond.

(KNZA)--Special recognition for a Hiawatha Police Department employee came during the February 27 meeting of the Hiawatha City Commission.

Mayor Becky Shamburg presented a certificate to Barb Mauselin in recognition of her 10 years of service to the city.

Police Chief Mickey Gruber said without the longtime employee, who was recently promoted to Department Operations Supervisor, he would not be in his current position and the department would have had a much more difficult time getting through the turbulent past year.

In other business, the commission approved a resolution ordering the immediate repair or demolition of a house and accessory structures located at 808 Kickapoo Street, which the city has deemed unsafe and dangerous.

The action followed a hearing drawing no public comment. The property owner or a representative were not present at the meeting.

The resolution gives the property owner until 5 pm on April 3 to commence the repair or demolition of the structures or the city will remove them and the costs will be assessed against the property.

(KLZA)--A Sterling Nebraska man has been charged with illegal hunting.

According to the Johnson County Sheriff's Office, they were notified on February 26 after a group of hunters discovered numerous dead and injured show geese near the Village of Sterling sanitation ponds south of Sterling

A Deputy arrived on scene and discovered that 51 snow geese and one white fronted goose were killed. The birds had been shot. Light fronted geese are currently out of season as of the date of this incident. The Deputy discovered 5 spent shotgun shells on village property.

Nebraska Game and Parks Conservation Officers arrived on scene and they along with the Deputy investigated and ultimately cited Jason Harms of Sterling, NE to include Hunting During a Closed Season, Hunting without Permission, Game Abandonment, Hunting Without a Permit, Hunting Without a Federal Waterfowl Stamp and several other charges.

(KLZA)--The Nemaha Natural Resources District will host a grand re-opening of the Steamboat Trace Trail on Saturday, April 15.

The event will take place at the Peru Depot, in Peru, and will include a 5K Fun Run. To register for the run, go the Nemaha NRD website. All of the proceeds raised by the event will go to the Nebraska Association of Resource Districts that supports student's desiring to enter the field of natural resources.

The Steamboat Trace Trail was closed from two miles south of Peru to Brownville following the historic flooding that occurred in 2019. NRD crews and contractors spent much of last year working to get the trail back into shape and opened up by fall for visitors.

The work included hauling truck loads of screenings, a material used for trail surfacing, which were placed and shaped along with new guardrails and tree trimming.

The scenic 22-mile long abandoned railroad corridor parallels the Missouri River from approximately six miles south of Nebraska City to just south of Brownville.

(KNZA)--March has been designated as Youth Art Month in Hiawatha. Mayor Becky Shamburg read and signed a proclamation at Monday's Hiawatha City Commission meeting making the declaration.

The proclamation urges all citizens to take interest in and give full support to quality school art programs for children and youth.

Hiawatha Elementary School art teacher Kate Miller, who serves as president of the Hiawatha Area Arts and Theatre Society, said in honor of Youth Art Month, the organization will be holding its first annual Youth Art Month Show, which is open to all Brown County schools.

The youth art exhibit will run from March 6-31 in the upstairs of the Hiawatha City Hall.

On March 20th, Miller said a Youth Art Month celebration and reception will take place from 6:00 to 7:30 that evening, and the public is invited to see the works of art on display.

(KLZA)--Richardson County Commissioners approved a request Tuesday, from the Communities for Kids and Sixpence CCP partnership to allow digital fingerprinting of childcare providers, assistants, preschool teachers and staff, for free, for one year.. The partnership contributed $4,999.99 toward the purchase of the digital fingerprinting equipment.

In other business Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported that a trainee has completed the training at the Nebraska State Patrol Academy and will begin duties as a deputy on March 18, and that a contract for the school resource officer at the HTRS School in Humboldt is being prepared for next year.

Falls City School District Transportation Director Tyler Bek presented concerns about the amount of brush on two different railroad crossings within the school districts bus routes. Bek also raised concerns about the condition of county roads and that more rock is need to be placed in areas as some school buses have been quote “plowing a lot of mud.”

Sealed bids were opened for Armor Coat projects in the County. Three bids were received and will be reviewed by the engineer and Highway Superintendent.

Representatives of the House of Hope organization asked Commissioners to consider allocating Opioid Settlement funds the County has received to the House of Hope.

A resolution for the Board to consider, if they approve the request was submitted for the County to review.

(KAIR)--The sighting of a stolen vehicle turns into a Wednesday afternoon Atchison County pursuit that ended with two men in custody.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, a deputy, around 2:20 Wednesday afternoon, recognized the suspect vehicle matching one reported stolen in Kansas City, Missouri.

An attempt to stop the vehicle was made after it had turned onto 254th Road, fleeing south on Neosho Road and then back toward Atchison, on U.S. Highway 59.

Laurie explains that a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper deployed stop-sticks at the intersection of the highway and Ottawa Road, deflating two tires on the suspect vehicle, which turned south on Phillips Road, going slow due to deflating tires, with a Trooper able to disable the vehicle, after it eventually went north on U.S. Highway 73, just north of 262nd Road.

Two Troopers and one Atchison Police Officer assisted deputies in the arrests of the driver, 18-year-old Colton Cornett and his passenger, 25-year-old Colton Meyer, of Effingham.

Cornett was taken into custody on charges for felony flee or attempt to elude, no driver- license, felony theft of a motor vehicle, reckless driving, and what Laurie calls “possible drug charges pending test results.”

Meyer was arrested for three unrelated district court warrants and faces pending, additional charges.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson told MSC News that while his office was not directly involved in the pursuit, police were positioned on the south side of Atchison when KHP Troopers stopped the vehicle, south of Raven Hill Drive.

Among Meyer- three warrants, Wilson says one involving his office was filed in connection with a case of domestic battery that occurred last year, on June 20, in the 1500 block of Applegate Drive.

Booked into the Atchison County Jail, Meyer is held on a $5,000 bond.

Bond is not immediately set for Cornett.

(KAIR)--Atchison Police are investigating the latest case of car theft in the city, following what could be described as a rash of such thefts in recent months.

In the latest case, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says a 29-year-old victim reported the theft to police, saying that a 2008, white, four-door, Pontiac Grand Prix was stolen from the 1200 block of Kearney Street.
It- believed the theft of the car took place around 4:30 Thursday morning.

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

(KAIR)--Federal grant funds will be used to provide faster internet service to underserved areas, with Kansas among the states set to receive a portion of those dollars.

Local leaders, including the Atchison County Commission, are watching as the funding develops, with the Commission Tuesday receiving an update on the details.

That information was delivered to the Commissioners, during their regular, weekly meeting, by Jason Smith, General Manager-CEO of Everest-based Rainbow Communications. “Kansas is looking to the BEAD funding, and that stands for Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. They're estimating that Kansas is going to get about $202 million from this program to build out underserved, and unserved, areas."

Details of the how the funding will be administered to the program that includes Atchison County is currently unknown, with Smith saying it could be November until that information is released.

In an attempt to gain initial information pertaining to internet availability in Atchison County, an online speed test has been put in place.

According to a release from Commission Chair Casey Quinn, the survey is being conducted “in order to prove [the County-] shortfalls of reliable internet options in Atchison County,” saying that data is necessary in order to gain that information.

Quinn says the input gained through the survey “will assist with substantiating grant funding requests.”
The link to the survey can be found here.

(KNZA)--Brown County is preparing for this summer's chip and seal road projects.

The Brown County Commission, during their regular meeting last week, accepted the low bid submitted by Vance Brothers, of Kansas City, Missouri, for the purchase of an estimated 500,000 gallons of RS-IH Plus road oil for $2.29 a gallon. It was among three bids received.

In other business, County Solid Waste Director Heather Merrill informed commissioners that Hamm's, which transports and disposes of solid waste from the county transfer station, has increased their price from $40.29 a ton to $41.50 a ton. Merrill would like to raise prices at the county landfill to offset the increase. Brown County Clerk Dawn Boyles will have County Attorney Kevin Hill review the contract with Hamm's.

Vintage Park of Hiawatha Director Heather Williams met with commissioners to present three project requests for ARPA funding consideration.

Later in the meeting, the commission voted to cease taking any further ARPA requests

(KNZA)-- A group of concerned citizens met with the Nemaha County Commission Monday to talk about the need for the continued services provided by the Seneca and Sabetha Nutrition Program.

Commissioner Dylan Keim explained the county is not wanting to make any changes to the Meals on Wheels Program, but are looking at trying to cut costs involved with the Congregate Meal Program, due to the fact the county is currently spending $15.20 per meal and serving more than 32,000 plus meals each year.

Those present suggested ways to keep the Congregate Meal Program active due to the socialization that it provides to the seniors in the community.

In other business, Rob Quellmalz, with Vanguard Renewables, and others came before commissioners to discuss the possible establishment of an anaerobic digester in Nemaha County, north of Baileyville.

The project would utilize food waste and manure to produce methane gas.

The company would like to have the commission sign off on the solid waste processing facility certification form to submit to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, along with their permit application for the project.

The commission also accepted the resignation of Ron Heinen from the Goff Fire District #1 Board, and appointed Luke Sourk to replace him on the board.

(KNZA)- A longtime Troy educator is being remembered.

Martha-Jean Rockey died Sunday at the age of 74.

She taught English at Troy High School for 42 years before retiring in 2016. Rockey also took on the responsibilities through the years of directing plays, coaching the forensics team, sponsoring the school newspaper and yearbook, and leading T-Club

She was awarded the USD 429 Master Teacher of the Year in 1998-1999.

In 2017, the school district named the Troy High School original gym/auditorium in honor of Martha-Jean and her husband, Mick, who also taught and coached in USD 429.

Services for Rockey will be held Friday afternoon at 2:00 at the United Methodist Church, in Troy.

Among survivors are her husband, Mick.

(MSC News)--Governor Laura Kelly today announced that total tax-only collections for February were $549.8 million. That is $36.8 million, or 7.2%, more than the monthly estimate. Those collections were also $47.3 million, or 9.4%, more than in February 2022.

“Revenues have exceeded estimates for 30 out of the last 31 months - a clear sign that our efforts to make Kansas a place where businesses and families want to call home is paying off,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These revenues will continue to grow our historic budget surplus, making it possible for our legislature to pass responsible tax cuts that help every Kansan, like my ‘Axing Your Taxes’ plan.”

Consistently strong revenues were one of the reasons S&P Global improved Kansas’ credit outlook, which the firm announced yesterday. In its report, S&P cited Governor Kelly- recommended budgets for fiscal years 2023 and 2024 as indicators of continued fiscal responsibility that could lead to a credit rating upgrade and warned against irresponsible tax plans that could lead to a credit rating downgrade.

Individual income tax collections were $211.3 million in February. That is $6.3 million, or 3.1%, above the estimate and $27.9 million, or 15.2%, more than February 2022.

“The positive trend in tax receipts continues with all of the major tax types, individual income tax, corporate income tax, retailer- sales tax, and compensating use tax, performing well,” Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart said.

Corporate income tax collections were $15.3 million, which is $324,000, or 2.2%, more than the February 2023 estimate. Those collections are $8.1 million, or 34.5%, less than in February 2022. It should be noted that February 2022 corporate income tax receipts were greater than February 2023 because of the higher-than-expected collection of nonrecurring corporate audit assessments that occurred that month.

Retail sales tax collections were $203.8 million, which is $13.8 million, or 7.3%, more than the estimate. Those collections are also $8.5 million, or 4.4%, greater than February 2022. Compensating use tax collections were $64.2 million, which is $849,000, or 1.3%, less than the estimate. Those collections were $4.7 million, or 8.0%, more than in February 2022.

(KAIR)--The Atchison City Commission has announced a special assembly this coming Saturday evening. However, the occasion is not a special meeting of the Commission, rather it- their intent to gather together for Saturday's Locally Atchison Chamber Annual Dinner.

According to the notice of the special assembly, City Commissioners, City Staff, and others, will be in attendance.

The banquet is held annually to recognize Atchison success, and will take place at the Atchison Event Center, located at 710 South 9th Street.

A Happy Hour is scheduled to kick off the event, at 6:00 Saturday evening, followed by the dinner and awards at 7:00.

The awards ceremony annually recognizes business success in Atchison, as well as other local achievements, with Business of the Year serving as the top award of the evening.

Tickets are $450 for a table of 8 or $60 for single admission.

(KNZA)--A $100,000 Heritage Trust Fund Grant has been awarded to help fund repairs to a historic building in downtown Troy.

The Kansas State Historical Society recently announced the grant for the Sol Miller building located at 101 South Main Street in Troy. The grant requires a 20 percent local match

It was among seven awards totaling nearly $638,000.

The building, which has played vital roles in the community of Troy for more than 150 years, has served as a newspaper office and hardware store. It is part of the Courthouse Square Historic District.

The Heritage Trust Fund is a state program that provides matching funds for the preservation of properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places or the Register Of Historic Kansas Places.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission voted Monday evening to stay with the same health insurance plan with Blue Cross and Blue Shield for city employees.

The commission approved a revised proposal from BCBS that calls for an annual premium of $335,000, which is $25,000 under the city's current premium.

Greg Watkins, with Overland Park-based employee benefits consulting firm, Watko Benefit Group, joined the meeting via Zoom to go over the last minute quote. The city also received a proposal from Aetna. Also discussed was a high deductible plan from BCBS that could be combined with a health savings account and would save the city considerably more. While commissioners expressed an interest in the plan, they decided it was best to wait until next year to consider it further.

BCBS had proposed a 12.4 percent increase, effective April 1st, which would have brought the annual premium up to more than $400,000 a year for the city's 36 employees and was more than $40,000 over what the city had budgeted.

Peru, Neb. - A savvy investment decision early in Carlos Harrison- career has paid big dividends later in his life. Now, the Shenandoah, Iowa, resident has decided to pay it forward to his alma mater, Peru State College.

Harrison, a 1951 Peru State graduate, gave the College stocks he has held since the 1950s, and the gift yielded more than $630,000. He designated $536,000 to Project ROAR, Peru State- campaign to build five new health and wellness-related facilities at Nebraska- first college.

It is the largest gift from an individual the campaign; launched late last summer, has received to date, according to Peru State President, Dr. Michael Evans.

“Peru State College is deeply grateful to Carlos for his vision and his generosity,” Evans said.

“Project ROAR is focused on students’ physical and mental well-being. Carlos- gift will have an enormous impact on Project ROAR, on our students, and on this College for decades to come.”

Harrison, raised on the family farm near Tabor, Iowa, went on from Peru State to obtain a master- degree. He then served in the U.S. Army before returning to Shenandoah as a regional executive for the Boy Scouts of America.

Harrison then accepted a position in Omaha for a Pennsylvania-based corporation called Air Products and Chemicals. He transferred to its California operation, where he spent much of his life and career, remaining with Air Products until 1974. Later he worked for United Airlines, retiring in 2000 for a return to his native southwest Iowa.

‘Part of Air Products’ compensation package allowed employees to use six percent of their salary to buy company stock, an opportunity Harrison seized. Soon after, he received his first dividend check “for the great sum of five cents,” Harrison said.

So instead of receiving dividends, Harrison opted to roll the gains into the purchase of more Air Products stock. The stock fund grew, and grew, and grew, eventually allowing him to give a portion of his portfolio to Peru State via its nonprofit fundraising corporation, the Peru State College Foundation.

Project ROAR is only the latest example of the 94-year-old- commitment to Peru State College. He was active in alumni chapters in California when he resided there, and he has been on Peru State- National Alumni Association board since its founding in 2002. At age 94, he still enjoys taking in college events and activities when he can.

Harrison stated, “It was a great pleasure to donate my appreciated stock at this time so future Bobcats can continue to ROAR.”

Harrison already endowed a scholarship in memory of his parents, Walter and Lillian Harrison, to enable students to attend Peru State. Through the years he has been one of the most steady and significant donors to nearly a dozen different causes that benefit the College.

With his latest gift, Harrison also earmarked some of the proceeds from the stock sale to his parents’ scholarship fund and to another upcoming capital construction project on Peru State- radar screen.

Project ROAR represents the first construction of all-new buildings at Peru State since 1980. Evans said the plan is to break ground on its first phase this spring. At a more than $15 million estimated cost, Project ROAR is the largest construction project, both in terms of cost and square footage - in the more than 155-year history of Peru State.

The Peru State College Foundation is a private, non-profit corporation whose sole mission is to support Peru State College through receipt and distribution of charitable gifts to support the College.

Gifts to Project ROAR can be made online at https://bit.ly/PSCProjectROAR or by check made out and mailed to: Peru State College Foundation, Project ROAR, PO Box 10, Peru, NE 68421-0010. Questions can be directed to Ted Harshbarger at the Foundation, 402-872-2304 or tharshbarger@peru.edu.

The Hiawatha City Commission voted Monday evening to stay with the same health insurance plan with Blue Cross and Blue Shield for city employees. The commission approved a revised proposal from BCBS that calls for an annual premium of $335,000, which is $25,000 under the city's current premium. Greg Watkins, with Overland Park-based employee benefits consulting firm, Watko Benefit Group, joined the meeting via Zoom to go over the last minute quote. The city also received a proposal from Aetna. Also discussed was a high deductible plan from BCBS that could be combined with a health savings account and would save the city considerably more. While commissioners expressed an interest in the plan, they decided it was best to wait until next year to consider it further. BCBS had proposed a 12.4 percent increase, effective April 1st, which would have brought the annual premium up to more than $400,000 a year for the city's 36 employees and was more than $40,000 over what the city had budgeted.

(KLZA)-- A life-changing event for a Falls City woman and her family occurred on Tuesday afternoon.

You see the Publishers Clearing House commercials on TV and see the surprise on the faces of the winners. Tuesday afternoon after a stop in downtown Falls City to blow up balloons and purchase roses, the Publishers Clearing House van made its way to the home of Snooks and Keith Hayes.

Snooks said she didn't see the van parked across the street, but her granddaughter saw someone at the door with a camera, so she would not answer the door.

When Snooks went to the door, she said it was truly the surprise of a lifetime when she recognized the Publishers Clearing House representatives Dave and Howie.

Hayes has worked at the Falls City Senior Center for 14 years and says she plans to keep working, at least part-time. She wants to do some projects around the house and pay off some bills before determining how to spend the money.

In addition to the balloons and roses, Dave and Howie, representing Publishers Clearing House presented Snooks with $5 thousand in cash for their first week of winnings.

Snooks said she has taken part in the Publishers Clearing House mailers for a number of years, noting that for everyone that thinks it is fake, it is not.

Congratulations to the Hayes family.

The pictures accompanying this story were posted on Facebook by Publishers Clearing House.