(KNZA)--A suspect is in custody following a violent domestic incident in the city of Denison Thursday afternoon.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said the Sheriff's Office and the Kansas Highway Patrol responded shortly after 1:00 to 505 Highland Avenue in Denison.

Jackson County EMS responded and provided medical aid to the victims.

The suspect, armed with a knife, was believed to have left the scene prior to the arrival of law enforcement.

Morse said an area resident reported being the victim of the theft of a Ford 2001 Super Duty pickup with a Dodge bed trailer.

A Jackson County Sheriff's Office drone pilot located the truck and trailer in a wooded area north of Denison.

The suspect, 53-year-old Jeffrey Baumann, of Denison, was captured at a residence on 218th Road, north of Denison, shortly before 4:30.

Following his arrest, Bauman was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Charges are pending in the case.

Holton USD 336 sent out a notice to Denison area parents Thursday afternoon regarding the incident.

The release is below in its entirety.

(KNZA)--Parents of students in Holton USD #336 Thursday received a warning regarding a fugitive on the loose in the Denison area.

No new details have emerged since the time of the release, Thursday afternoon.

The release is below in its entirety.

(KLZA)-- The South Holt R-1 School District in Oregon, Missouri will have a new superintendent for the 2024-25 school year.

Jean Meyer has been hied to replace Bob Ottman who is retiring.

Meyer has served as Superintendent for four years and served 8 years prior to that as a principal and a dozen years as a teacher.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Sheriff's deputies made five felony arrests over a 12 hour period from Monday evening through Tuesday morning.

According to the Sheriff's Office, deputies conducted a traffic stop in rural Richardson County late Monday evening. The search of the vehicle yielded suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

27-year-old Breanna Evans, of Omaha, 25-year-old Chelsey Reed, of Council Bluffs and 23-year-old Raul Gonzales of Omaha, were arrested for felony possession of methamphetamine as a result of the vehicle search.

About 12 hours later, the Sheriff's Office says deputies executed a search warrant at 1803 Crook Street in Falls City. During the search, deputies located suspected methamphetamine, pills, marijuana, and related drug paraphernalia.

42-year-old Stephanie Vice and 47-year-old Christina Sipple, both of Falls City, were arrested for felony possession of methamphetamine, along with misdemeanor drug and infraction charges.

Following their arrest, all five were booked into the Richardson County Jail.

(KAIR)--Atchison County is named as one of 16 Kansas Cost Share projects awarded to share in the more than $12 million allcocated through the State's IKE Transportation Program.

The announcement was made in Topeka Tuesday, with Atchison County awarded $1 million to assist in the completion of the Ottawa Road Project, with the state saying the funds will support roadway rehabilitation and safety improvements.

Atchison County Commission Chair Casey Quinn was in attendance during the awards ceremony, which was overseen by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Calvin Reed, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation.

During her address, Quinn thanked those who worked toward seeing the project funded, specifically the County's Road and Bridge Superintendent, Joe Snyder, who was also in attendance.

Quinn, who mentioned past attempts at securing the funding during her address, sends words of support in a social media post, thanking those who submitted a letter of support for the County's successful application, calling support letters "a critical part of our application process."

In addition, funding was awarded for projects in Brown and Pottawatomie Counties.

In Brown County, funding was awarded for a roadway rehabilitation project on 270th Road. In Pottawatomie County, funding was awarded for a bridge project on Louisville Road over Rock Creek.

(KAIR)--Atchison County is named as one of 16 Kansas Cost Share projects awarded to share in the more than $12 million allcocated through the State's IKE Transportation Program.

The announcement was made in Topeka Tuesday, with Atchison County awarded $1 million to assist in the completion of the Ottawa
Road Project, with the state saying the funds will support roadway rehabilitation and safety improvements.

Atchison County Commission Chair Casey Quinn was in attendance during the awards ceremony, which was overseen by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Calvin Reed, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation.

During her address, Quinn thanked those who worked toward seeing the project funded, specifically the County's Road and Bridge Superintendent, Joe Snyder, who was also in attendance.

Quinn, who mentioned past attempts at securing the funding during her address, sends words of support in a social media post, thanking those who submitted a letter of support for the County's successful application, calling support letters "a critical part of our application process."

(KLZA)-- The 44th Annual Eagle Days celebration will be held Saturday and Sunday, December 2nd and 3rd at Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge near Mound City. The annual free event, is presented in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Saturday hours will be from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. and Sunday hours will be 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

There will be live Bald Eagle programs at the top of every hour both days featuring a bald eagle, a golden eagle and harpy eagle.

Other activities will include eagle and snow goose viewing. Spotting scopes are set up along the auto tour route and volunteers will be present to help you spot eagles and other birds and animals.

Visitors can take a free guided bus tour of the refuge with refuge staff providing information during the tour.

Souvenirs will be available at the Nature Store. There will be hot food and drinks available and face paining on Saturday.

Visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather.

(KNZA)--More than $12 million in state funding has been awarded for 16 transportation construction projects across Kansas--including those in Atchison, Brown and Pottawatomie Counties--through the Kansas Department of Transportation's Cost Share Program for fall 2023.

According to a release, the investment will leverage $7.2 million in local matching dollars for a total investment of over $19 million.

The announcement was made Tuesday by Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed.

In Atchison County, funding was awarded for a roadway rehabilitation and safety improvements project on Ottawa Road.

In Brown County, funding was awarded for a roadway rehabilitation project on 270th Road.

In Pottawatomie County, funding was awarded for a bridge project on Louisville Road over Rock Creek.

The Cost Share Program was created as part of the Kelly administration- Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, or IKE.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Community Foundation will hold the annual " Give Where You Live" match day event Friday, December 1 through Monday, December 4 to benefit 30 local non-profit organizations.

This year, donations will be eligible for match from up to $83,500 in available funding.

Donations can be made in-person Friday at the Highland City Hall from 9 to 2 and at the Troy Library from 10 to 2.

Donations can also be dropped off at the Elwood, Troy and Wathena City Halls during regular office hours.

You can also give on-line at GiveWhereYouLiveDay.com beginning Friday through 11:59 Monday night.

In addition, donations can be mailed to DCCF at P.O. Box 11, Troy, Kansas 66087. They should be postmarked by Monday, December 4th.

Last year, 241 gifts totaling nearly $58,000 was donated to benefit 28 funds.

(KMZA)--Governor Laura Kelly has announced that $5 million has been awarded to eight internet service providers--including Home, Kansas based Blue Valley Technologies--in the latest round of Broadband Acceleration Grants for 2023.

The announcement was made this week.

According to a release, the awards will be paired with an additional $6.6 million in matching funds, resulting in an investment of nearly $12 million for high-speed broadband access projects across 10 rural Kansas counties.

Blue Valley was awarded a nearly $240,000 grant, which will be matched with more than $359,000 in local funding, for a project in Nemaha County to bring high-speed broadband access to 49 premises.

Initiated in 2020, the Broadband Acceleration Grant is a 10-year, $85 million program designed to bring essential internet access to Kansas communities. Administered by the Kansas Office of Broadband Development and funded through the Kansas Department of Transportation- Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), this latest round of grants brings the program- total investment for broadband infrastructure since 2020 to more than $31.5 million.

The projects were selected after review by an executive committee and the public.

(KLZA)-- During a special meeting of the Pawnee City School Board Tuesday night, the Board voted 5-1 to have the schools football team continue to compete in 6-Man football for the next two-year schedule cycle.

A motion to move to 8-Man football for the 2024-25 cycle failed with Board member J.W. Vlcek being the only board member to vote in favor of the move.

A second motion, to remain in 6-Man football for the next cycle passed on a 5-1 vote with board member Vlcek casting the nay vote.

By continuing the play in Class D6, the Pawnee City football team will not be eligible to participate in post-season games during the next two year cycle due to the number of boys enrolled in high school.

(KAIR)--All Doniphan County Sheriff's Office purchases must now be pre-approved by the County Commission.

That follows Sheriff Chad Clary, during Monday's meeting of the Commission, telling the county leaders that he will pinch pennies to get through the year, as his 2023 budget is depleted, with the Sheriff informing the Commission that he has "sent a memo to everyone telling them no more purchases."

Commission Chair Wayne Grable told Clary he has been consistenly over budget all year, with Clary explaining that he should have budgeted more for contractual obligations and higher overall costs.

According to the unofficial minutes of Monday's meeting, a number of Sheriff Department expenditures, from vehicle costs, hiring, and uniforms to inmate pay per view purchases and the cost of the County's K9 officer, were all examined Monday, with Clary explaining that the purchase for cable viewing-amounting to nearly $605-is being addressed, with the blame placed on the provider for not blocking such services, despite an agreement to do so. Also discussed was compensation for housing out of county inmates, and the viability of increasing that step, an increase Clary voiced hesitation to, saying that he would run out of room for inmates that need segregated, adding that most counties are no longer contracting with other agencies for housing inmates. However, it's possible such a contract with Wyandotte County, for 5 to 10 inmates, could be secured, boosting the budget.

Once the discussion concluded, it was the consensus of the Commission that all Sheriff's Office purchases must now be pre-approved by the Commission. In the event of an emergency, a special meeting will be called to pre-approve emergent expenses. Non-emergent expenses will be presented to the County Commission by the Sheriff during a regular board meeting for pre-approval prior to purchase or expending any funds.

(KAIR)--Members of the public will have a chance to share ideas and experiences regarding rural health care and Medicaid expansion.

That will happen Thursday, in Atchison, during what's being called a community conversation about those topics.

Sponsored by Thrive Kansas, and the United Methodist Ministry Fund, the Thursday afternoon session will allow for the sharing of ideas, as well as ways to connect to available services and programs, help with enrolling for coverage, and other related topics, as well as lunch.

The Community Conversation forum will run from 12 noon until 2:00 Thursday afternoon, at the Atchison Event Center.

Those who plan to attend should register online at healthfund.org.

(KAIR)--A working smoke detector is being credited for playing a role in saving lives after a fire began in the kitchen of an Atchison residence.

It happened Tuesday night, around 10:15, with a release from Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar saying crews rushed to 1123 South 7th Street, where they found heavy smoke coming from the front of the residence.

With all of the home's occupants escaping prior to the Fire Department's arrival, due to being awakenend by the sounding of the home's smoke detector, "crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire limiting the damage to the home," with the residence sustaining "minimal structural damage but will need to be repaired and cleaned due to the smoke damage and damage to the home- kitchen area."

According to Weishaar, it was determined that the fire had started accidentally on the stove and extended into the range hood and cabinets above.

One of the home's occupants was transported by private vehicle to Amberwell Atchison for evaluation, while another was treated and released at the scene by Atchison County EMS, which evaluated the home's occupants for smoke inhalation.

The Salvation Army is providing temporary lodging and assistance for the family.

Atchison Police also assisted at the scene of the Tuesday night fire.

Weishaar, in the release, says now that colder temperatures have arrived, the fire, and successful escape by the residents, can serve "to remind all our citizens the importance of working smoke detectors." If you or someone you know does not have a working smoke detector you’re urged to contact the Atchison Fire Department for assistance, with Weishaar asking the public to check the batteries and age of your current smoke detectors to ensure they are functioning properly.

(KNZA)-- The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved an ordinance establishing a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

The board will make policy recommendations to the Commission regarding Parks and Recreation programs and initiatives.

Hiawatha voters in 2019 approved a quarter-cent sales tax for recreation.

City Administrator Becky Berger said the board will give residents an opportunity to be involved in the parks and recreation initiatives undertaken by the city.

The Board will consist of 7 members appointed by the Commission, with a least four members being residents of Hiawatha and at least one member being a resident of the surrounding community.

Berger said the board will meet at least quarterly, and more often if they choose.

The city will advertise the availability of the board positions and the applicants will be brought to the commission for approval at a future meeting.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Commission has approved a contract with Nestor & Mercure Law Office in Tecumseh to serve as the Richardson County Public Defender through 2028.

The Commission took the action when they met November 22 on recommendation of the county Public Defender Policy Review Board

The contract calls for annual salaries of $108,000 in 2024 and increasing by $2,000 annually to $116,000 for 2028.

In other action, an agreement was approved with Animal Health Center in Falls City to provide short-term boarding services for dogs and cats owned by persons who are jailed in Richardson County.

(KAIR)--A Boil Water Advisory is in place for customers of Buchanan County Public Water Supply District #1, which includes those located south of U.S. Highway 59 at the Y intersection, including the areas of Winthrop, Sugar Lake, and Bean Lake, all located in Buchanan County, Missouri.

According to a release, the boil water advisory was issued Tuesday afternoon due to a water main break. .

While the advisory remains in place, Buchanan County Public Water Supply District #1 customers are instructed to boil all water for at least 3 minutes prior to ingestion. Ice cubes should be disposed of, and bottled water could be used for drinking, brushing teeth, or other related necessities until the advisory is lifted.

The Boil Water Advisory will remain in place until further notice.

(KLZA)-- The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is now accepting applications for abandoned well plugging grants.

Community and not-for-profit non-community public water systems with at least one active or emergency well are eligible to apply for reimbursement funding through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to properly plug abandoned water wells.

Awards are limited to a maximum amount of $20,000. The priority application period is open through December 31, 2023.

Applications received from January 1, 2024, through April 30, 2024, may be awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis if available funds remain.

To apply or for more information please see the Abandoned Well Plugging Grant webpage: .

Abandoned Well Plugging Grant | Missouri Department of Natural Resources (mo.gov)

(KLZA)-- The unemployment rate in Nebraska was higher again in October, but remains lower than the level from a year ago.

Unemployment in the state in October was 2.2%, up a tenth of a point from September but below the 2.7% from October 2022.

Locally, Pawnee County had the lowest unemployment rate at 1.8%,. Johnson County has the highest unemployment rate in the area at 2.8%.

For the month of October the unemployment rates in area counties included 2.5% in Richardson County, 2.2% in Nemaha County, Nebraska, 2.2% in Otoe County and 2.4% in Gage County.

Maryland has the best unemployment rate in the nation at 1.7%. Nebraska ranks sixth at 2.2%. Kansas is tied for 15th at 2.9% with Missouri tied for 19th at 3.1%. Iowa has a 3.2% jobless rate, tied for 21s in the country.

Nationally the unemployment rate for October was 3.9%.

(MSC News)--Production on the recently announced new Kansas license plates has been placed on hold, allowing the public input into the final design.

That word was released Tuesday by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, who, in a release from her office, said "elected officials should be responsive to their constituents, which is why [the State is] adjusting the process so Kansans can provide direct input on our state- next license plate.”

According to the release, the Kansas Department of Revenue will pause production on the design revealed last week and create a process to receive public input before selecting a final design.

The release notes that one of the challenges of designing a license plate is meeting the primary reason license plates exist: to be clear and easy to read, with the release explaining that Kansans will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite design among several that follow guidelines that comply with the needs of law enforcement entities and best practices established by the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators, including that license plate numbers will be seven digits; any phrase, motto, or slogan must be placed at the bottom of the license plate; any graphic must be placed on the right or left side of the license plate number, and must not resemble letters, numbers, or special characters in a way that would interfere with the ability to read the license plate number; and the license plate must have a light background behind the license plate number, and the license plate number must be black.

According to the release, the Governor- Office will soon share more details on license plate options, the voting process, and how the change impacts the transition from embossed to print-on-demand plates.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Sheriff Braden Lang released an updated proposal from Chief Deputy Sheriff John Samuelson and Deputy Taylor Bredemeier on Monday that will be presented to the Pawnee County Commissioners during their meeting Tuesday.

The deputies are requesting that two additional full-time deputy positions be hired for officer safety and to eliminate unpaid coverage time and coverage gaps.

They have asked for paid or comped on-call time; proposed a $10 thousand bonus for non-certified officers to be paid starting after a probationary period. $12 thousand bonuses for previously certified officers that have to be reactivated and a $15 thousand hiring bonus for certified officers hired. All of the bonuses would be paid over a three-year period.

In addition, the proposal calls for overtime after 80 hours rather than 86 hours; The average pay of Johnson, Nemaha and Richardson counties deputies annually, and adjusted yearly.

A $2 per hour pay increase for the office manager for increased work in criminal analysis assistance; They seek an Officer Retention Bonus that matches the State of Nebraska LEAR Act for all certified officers; a health savings account / flexible spending account and research of competing counties healthcare benefits and Evidence Room revisions.

During a meeting with Commissioners earlier this month, the deputies reportedly told the Board they would need to approve changes they have proposed by January or they would end their employment.

In October, the Commissioners approved a $2 per hour pay increase for the deputies.

(KNZA)--Unemployment was up in area northeast Kansas counties last month from September.

That's according to preliminary figures recently released by the Kansas Department of Labor.

Atchison County had the highest unemployment rate among area counties at 3.8 percent, while Nemaha County had the lowest at 2.1 percent.

Elsewhere, Brown County's unemployment rate in October was 3.3 percent; Doniphan, 3 percent; Jackson, 2.6 percent; Jefferson, 2.9 percent; Leavenworth, 3.1 percent; Marshall, 2.6 percent; and Pottawatomie County, 2.6 percent.

The figures were up from September and from October 2022.

Statewide, the seasonally adjustment unemployment rate in October was 2.9 percent. That is an increase from 2.8 percent in September and a decrease from 3 percent in October 2022.

(KAIR)--A Saturday morning two-vehicle Atchison County wreck sent two people to the hospital.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 73-year-old Linda Fleming, of Kansas City, Missouri, was northbound on Kingman Road near 290th Road in the Lancaster area in a Buick Encore when a dog entered the roadway.

Fleming swerved to miss the dog and entered the southbound lane where she collided with a Ford Taurus driven by 46-year-old Audrey Denton, of Denton.

Both vehicles came to rest in a field on the west side of the road.

Laurie said Fleming was extricated from her vehicle by Atchison County Rescue.

She suffered a suspected leg fracture and was transported by Atchison County EMS to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph.

Denton complained of head, chest and hip pain. She was transported by Atchison County EMS to Amberwell Atchison for treatment.

The wreck was reported shortly before 11:00 Saturday morning.

( KNZA)--As the water level at Perry Lake continues to fall, the city of Valley Falls announced Monday they have entered stage 2 of the city's Emergency Water Plan.

The city entered Stage 1 of the plan on October 19 when the elevation of Perry Lake reached 890 feet. Since that time the elevation of the lake has continued to drop. As of 8:00 Monday morning, the elevation of Perry Lake was recorded at 888.9 feet, which triggered Stage 2 water restrictions.

According to a release from the city, the lake elevation is a key indicator of drought conditions. The drought conditions have a direct impact on the Delaware River, which is the main water supply for Valley Falls.

The city says the goal of Stage 2 is to reduce the peak demands by 20% and to reduce overall weekly consumption by 10%.

Under Stage 2, the public is required to curtail outdoor water use and make efficient use of indoor water.

This can be done by:

- Washing full loads of laundry

- Take showers instead of full baths. Cut down time in the shower.

- Don’t let faucets run while washing dishes, brushing teeth, etc.

- Don’t let toilets run.

- Limit outdoor water activities such as washing cars, watering lawns, or filling pools.

City officials said they will continue to notify the public of any changes.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth woman has pleaded guilty to violently beating a woman on her 84th birthday in 2022, using the victim's walker.

Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson said 53-year-old Sherry Housworth entered the plea November 17 in Leavenworth County District Court to charges of aggravated battery, attempted aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and two counts of criminal threat.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 20.

On September 15, 2022, Thompson said Housworth repeatedly banged on the victim's door. While using her walker, the victim answered the door and stepped outside to greet Housworth - a woman she did not recognize. While outside, Housworth became agitated, grabbed the victim's walker, and began striking her with it.

When officers arrived at the downtown Leavenworth home, the victim was lying face down in the home's yard. The victim was bleeding, and facial swelling and bruising were visible. The victim was conscious when officers arrived.

The victim described her attacker and told police the woman who beat her, called her a cannibal and accused her of holding the woman's husband hostage.

Housworth was eventually arrested and taken into custody after she was located at a house a block away from where she attacked her victim.

(KAIR)--An inmate at the Lansing Correctional Facility has died.

The Kansas Department of Corrections, in a release, said 29-year-old Darionce Charles-Lott died Saturday night at the facility.

The release says Charles-Lott was found unresponsive in his cell with no pulse. Life-saving measures were administered. He was transported to the facility clinic where he later died.

The cause of death is pending further investigation and the results of an independent autopsy.

Per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC), the death is under investigation by the KDOC and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Charles-Lott, was serving a 172-month sentence from Wyandotte County for one count of Aggravated Battery with Intent for Bodily Harm and was admitted to the facility on November 1, 2011.

(KAIR)--The students of Benedictine College, away this week for the Thanksgiving break, will return to Atchison Sunday, with their welcome back reception to include fireworks that night.

According to a release from the Atchison-based college, it's tradition for the college to welcome the return of the students with a Sunday evening Mass, at 8:00, followed by the annual campus lighting ceremony. As part of the celebration, a fireworks display is planned for Sunday night around 9:15. While it's not a public display, residents near the college will likely see the explosions, and hear the sounds, with BC alerting them that the ceremony is the reason for the sights and sounds.

According to the college, the display is expected to last 10-minutes.

(KAIR)--An Oskaloosa woman is dead, and a McLouth man injured, following a two vehicle, Thanksgiving Day crash that happened on U.S. Highway 59, in Jefferson County.

Killed in the early evening crash was 81-year-old Rebecca Bryant, identified by the Kansas Highway Patrol as the driver of a southbound car that crossed the center line of the highway, and crashed head-on into a northbound car, driven by 33-year-old Jesse Breshears.

Breshears, according to the KHP preliminary report, suffered a suspected serious injury and was transported for treatment at the University of Kansas Hospital, in Kansas City, Kansas.

Arrangements for Bryant are pending at the Barnett Family Funeral Home, in Oskaloosa.

The report shows that both drivers were buckled up at the time of the crash, which happened shortly before 6:00 Thursday evening.

(KMZA)--1,098 gifts to 63 funds, totaling more than $366,000.

That's the outcome of the Greater Sabetha Community Foundation's annual Give to Grow Match Day event.

Beginning last week, on Friday, November 17, the 8th annual Match Day wrapped up Wednesday, with the eligible donations made during that time through the Foundation, receiving a prorated match from more than $130,000 in available funds.

According to the Foundation, the event raised a total of $366,217.47 with those funds now earmarked for the participating 63 non-profit organizations and community projects.

Since its beginning, and prior to the latest event, the annual Give to Grow Match Day has generated more than $1.6 million.

(KAIR)--Forward movement is made in the City of Atchison's plans for upgrades at the City's LFM Park.

That happened Monday, as the Atchison City Commission approved the hiring of a firm to provide design, and related services, for the upcoming improvements, following a presentation by the City's Public Works & Utilities Director Clinton McNemee.

Hired for that project is Snyder and Associates, at a cost of $68,000, with a change order authority of $2,500. That firm was one of two, narrowed from a field of five, selected by the City's Parks and Recreation Board, with the firm offering the low bid of $68,000. Snyder and Associates also provided the preliminary engineering report for the LFM upgrade project, allowing them to keep the price lower for the latest stage.

The hiring follows a series of steps made in advance of the improvement work, with the City, this past summer, informed that they had been selected to receive more than $414,000 dollars through the 2023 Community Development Block Grant program. Atchison- $414,380 will be matched by the City of Atchison, bringing the total to $828,760.
The award came after the completion of requirements to obtain eligibility for the funding, such as having an income survey conducted within the neighborhood of LFM Park and completion of the preliminary engineering report.

Proposed improvements at LFM Park include a zero-depth splash pad, picnic shelter improvements, play equipment, basketball court lighting, and parking/accessibility enhancements.

Work to make the improvements a reality is anticipated to occur next year.

(KLZA)-- Downtown Falls City will kickoff the Christmas season Friday night with the annual Lighted Christmas parade beginning at 6 p.m.

The parade will go from the 1800 block of Stone Street south to the 1500 block and will feature vehicles of all types showing off their Christmas lights.

Santa will be at the Mini Park in the 1500 block of Stone Street to greet children Friday evening.

There will be free sleigh rides, hot cocoa from the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department, cookies provide by Frontier Bank and hot dogs provided by F M Bank.

Stores will be open late Friday evening for your shopping convenience.

Saturday is “Shop Small Saturday” and will also be the annual Falls City Christmas Vendor Fair at Prichard Auditorium between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. sponsored by the Falls City Chamber and Main Street. More than 50 vendors are expected to have displays.

The $1 entry fee to the show will benefit the Richardson County Cancer Society.

(KLZA)-- A Rulo man died from injuries suffered while working on a large piece of agricultural equipment Tuesday morning.

71-year-old Neal Frost was working on a fertilizer floater that was jacked up with the rear wheels removed when the machine fell, making contact with him.

Neal Frost farmed and was a sub-contractor through Ag Partners Coop. He was a member of the Ag Partners Board and has served on the Richardson County Extension Board and the Natural Resources District.

Funeral services for Neal Frost will be 10:30 Monday morning, Nov. 27 at the First United Methodist Church in Falls City.

The family will receive friends Sunday afternoon from 3 - 4 at the Dorr and Clark Funeral Home in Falls City.

(KAIR)--A 39-year-old St. Joseph, Missouri man who used a blonde wig in an attempt to conceal his identity has been found guilty on an individual count of attempted interference with law enforcement.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Simon Pohl ran from Leavenworth police officers on August 15, while wearing a wig. Pohl was known to police and had warrants out for his arrest. Pohl was walking near 12th and Ottawa Streets when a uniformed police officer confronted him. The officer asked Pohl to stop, but Pohl continued walking away. As Pohl walked away, he denied his name was Simon and ran when he was told there was a warrant for his arrest.

Pohl pled guilty during an arraignment hearing in Leavenworth County District Court last week.

His sentencing is scheduled for December 20.

(MSC News)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, on Wednesday, revealed a new license plate design that will be seen on Kansas roadways beginning in spring 2024.

The new plate displays a wheat-yellow color in the background with black and midnight blue text. The design pays tribute to the state motto, “ad astra per aspera,” with “to the stars” emblazoned across the bottom of the plate.

The new design is part of the state- phased approach to replacing current embossed standard plates because of safety concerns.

Kelly, in a release from her office, says "the new license plate design promotes the state and our sense of optimism as Kansans travel near and far,” adding that "it serves as a reminder that there are endless possibilities and that we should always reach for the stars,” referincing the state's motto.

According to the release, the Kansas Department of Revenue is phasing out its embossed license plates starting in January 2024, and the new plate design will appear on vehicles beginning in March 2024.

Vehicle owners who update their registration in January or February and have embossed license plates will get the current design on flat, print-on-demand plates.
Vehicle owners who update their registration between March and December and have embossed license plates will get the new design on flat, print-on-demand plates.
All other standard flat, print-on-demand plates will continue to use the current design.

(KLZA)-- As we prepare for Thanksgiving feasts, football games and Black Friday shopping this week, Omaha Public Power District warns that scammers are likely making plans, too. This time of year, OPPD usually sees an increase in reports from customers receiving phone calls and texts from phony utility representatives seeking money.

This con has been happening for many years in the area and across the nation, with scammers falsely telling customers they owe money for overdue bills or equipment. Callers are typically aggressive, telling customers they need to buy a gift card or pre-paid credit card of some sort to settle up. Otherwise, they claim, power will be disconnected in short order. This time of year, the thieves seem to be banking on that fear of disconnection threatening family gatherings or, with business customers, jeopardizing a critical sales period.

OPPD is working in partnership with other local public power utilities to raise awareness among our customers, identify scammers’ trends, and get their phone numbers shut down, when possible. In 2022, OPPD received 1,532 reports from customers who’d received scam calls. So far this year, we’ve received 444 reports. However, our residential and business customers should remain vigilant and remember the following:

NONE of these calls are from the utility. OPPD call center representatives would never cold-call a customer demanding immediate payment. If customers were truly overdue on their bills to the point where service could be disconnected, they would receive written notice first.

· Authentic utility representatives NEVER request payment via a purchased payment card.

· NEVER give personal or financial information to a stranger during an unsolicited phone call.

· If somebody shows up to your door claiming to work for the utility and wanting to enter, do not allow them inside. Utility employees should not need to enter your home to conduct their work. ALWAYS ask for identification or verification. OPPD employees always carry identification. Failure to produce identification should always be a tip-off to the customer that something is wrong.

· Be wary of sales pitches from companies claiming to represent or work with OPPD.

Customers with questions about their service or bill status, or needing financial assistance, should call OPPD at 877-536-4131 outside of the Omaha area.

(KLZA)-- As we prepare for Thanksgiving feasts, football games and Black Friday shopping this week, Omaha Public Power District warns that scammers are likely making plans, too. This time of year, OPPD usually sees an increase in reports from customers receiving phone calls and texts from phony utility representatives seeking money.

This con has been happening for many years in the area and across the nation, with scammers falsely telling customers they owe money for overdue bills or equipment. Callers are typically aggressive, telling customers they need to buy a gift card or pre-paid credit card of some sort to settle up. Otherwise, they claim, power will be disconnected in short order. This time of year, the thieves seem to be banking on that fear of disconnection threatening family gatherings or, with business customers, jeopardizing a critical sales period.

OPPD is working in partnership with other local public power utilities to raise awareness among our customers, identify scammers’ trends, and get their phone numbers shut down, when possible. In 2022, OPPD received 1,532 reports from customers who’d received scam calls. So far this year, we’ve received 444 reports. However, our residential and business customers should remain vigilant and remember the following:

NONE of these calls are from the utility. OPPD call center representatives would never cold-call a customer demanding immediate payment. If customers were truly overdue on their bills to the point where service could be disconnected, they would receive written notice first.

· Authentic utility representatives NEVER request payment via a purchased payment card.

· NEVER give personal or financial information to a stranger during an unsolicited phone call.

· If somebody shows up to your door claiming to work for the utility and wanting to enter, do not allow them inside. Utility employees should not need to enter your home to conduct their work. ALWAYS ask for identification or verification. OPPD employees always carry identification. Failure to produce identification should always be a tip-off to the customer that something is wrong.

· Be wary of sales pitches from companies claiming to represent or work with OPPD.

Customers with questions about their service or bill status, or needing financial assistance, should call OPPD at 877-536-4131 outside of the Omaha area.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members approved the One and Six Year Street Improvement Plan for 2024 - 2029 when they met Monday evening.

The Board of Public Works conducted a public hearing on the list of proposed projects earlier this month.

The One Year Plan calls for nine projects in 2024 including approximately 20 blocks of paving with the City's share of the total cost at $1,975,000.

The Six Year Plan includes eight project through 2029 including approximately 30 blocks of street paving at an estimated cost of $3,933,000, bringing the total estimated cost of the One and Six Year Street Plan to $5,908,000.

In other business the Council approved execution of a revised wholesale water purchase contract for Rural Water District #2 for their line running to Indian Cave State Park.

There will be no change in the rates for the sale of water. The change in language will allow the Rural Water District to access some federal grant funds.

The appointment of Jack Weaver to the Falls City Airport Authority was also approved. Weaver will fill the unexpired term of Ed O'Grady, who resigned from the Board. Weaver will serve the remainder of the term through December 31, 2024.

(KLZA)-- Family, friends, and feasts are on tap this Thanksgiving.

The Nebraska State Patrol reminds all travelers that safe driving is part of the recipe for a great holiday weekend. Troopers and dispatchers will be working overtime throughout Thanksgiving weekend to help keep holiday travelers safe across the state. The Buckle Up, Every Trip, Every Time campaign runs from Wednesday through Sunday.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation - Highway Safety Office (HSO) reports that Nebraska has one of the lowest seatbelt usage rates in the country. HSO reports that Nebraska had an observed seatbelt usage rate of 76% in 2022, the lowest rate in the last ten years. That compares to the national rate of 92%. NSP also reminds motorists to never drive impaired. Impaired-driving crashes claimed over 800 lives nationally during Thanksgiving weekend from 2017 to 2021, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

While traveling, if you need a roadway assist, call the NSP Highway Helpline at *55.”

(KLZA)-- The Salvation Army “Red Kettle” campaign in Falls City is in need of bell ringers.

The campaign begins Saturday, November 25. Southeast Nebraska Community Action is asking for volunteers from the community to help with the fundraiser.

90 percent of the funds collected will stay in Richardson County to provide assistance to local individuals and families in need.

Shifts on Saturday's are 9 - 11 a.m.; 11 a.m. - 1 p.m and 1 - 3 p.m. at Family Fare Supermarket and Dollar Fresh.

In addition there are shifts from 4 - 6 p.m. Monday through Friday at both Falls City grocery stores.

Anyone that would like to volunteer as a bell ringer is asked to contact the SENCA office in Falls City at 402-245-5284.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen, in accordance with a request from the White House, has announced that all U.S. and Nebraska flags be flown at half-staff to honor former first lady Rosalynn Carter.

The order is effective Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, until sunset, on the day of Carter- interment, Wednesday, Nov. 29.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education has set a public hearing for their December 11th meeting on a proposed new open enrollment policy for non-resident students.

Superintendent Tavis Desormeiers reviewed the proposed policy during last week's board meeting.

Its the result of legislation passed and signed by Governor Kelly last year.

The law, which will take effect with the 2024-25 school year, will allow students to transfer to any school in Kansas as long as the school has space.

School districts are required to establish a formal policy on how they will handle the new directive by January 1st, 2024.

Like all districts, USD 115, will be required by May 1st of each year to determine the capacity of the district to accept non-resident students. The district also must determine the number of students expected to attend and the number of open seats available for non-resident students.

Non-resident students would be required to apply for enrollment in June of each year.

In other business, Desormiers discussed with the board how the current shortage of bus drivers and the large number of kids transported daily who live less than 2.5 miles from school is causing some kids to be on the bus for more than an hour. Bus drivers are being sought but changes will need to be made if more full-time bus drivers are not hired. He also discussed replacing aging vehicles in the fleet with newer ones. The more immediate need is for a full-size handicap bus, a route bus and an Expedition

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has approved a resolution to deny a zoning change request.

The Council took the action when they meet last week on the recommendation of the Seneca Planning Commission.

The Planning Commission held a hearing November 2 on an application filed by Jesus Lozano to rezone two vacant lots on Branch Street between 5th and 6th Streets from single-family residential to multiple family residential.

Seneca City Administrator Steve Brooks said the a large number of residents attended the hearing to voice their opposition to the request.

In other business, the Council voted to change the city employee policy regarding overtime pay on the recommendation of Brooks. He said the city is wasting money when employee's who are on vacation and called out to work.

Brooks informed the Council that the software used by city hall for accounting and other office uses will be putting all the city's information on " the cloud." He said there will be an increase in the annual fee from $12,000 to $18,000. The Council approved continuing with G Works for their software on the recommendation of Brooks. He said he looked into other companies and there is no better deal.

Brooks also informed the Council that he had met with County Administrator Mike Miller who requested the city sell some of the property it owns near the fairgrounds rodeo arena. He said some of that property is used after storms for temporary branch storage and also for dumping snow during the city's snow removal times. Mayor Joe Mitchell requested Brooks get more information on the county's proposed use of the property and report back to the Council.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has approved a contract with the state and to accept a $25,000 payment for the use of county roads during a box culvert replacement project next spring.

The commission took the action when they meet last week following discussion with Michael Hagemann with the Kansas Department of Transportation.

The state plans to replace a box culvert on K-9 Highway near V Road and use county roads as an unofficial detour during the project.

In other business, Tom Gudenkauf came before the commission during the public comment portion of the meeting. He spoke to commissioners on behalf of P and J Solid Waste Management about his interest in purchasing the county's transfer station. Commissioners said they would take the matter under consideration.

And County Administrator Mike Miller informed commissioners that he and Senior Services/Public Transit Director Tammy Epple spoke to a company about a capital improvement plan for the flat roofs on county owned buildings. Commissioners advised Miller to look into the issue further and possibly talk with other companies at this time.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission Monday accepted a bid from a Horton business to provide the meals for the county's senior Meals on Wheels program for 2024.

On the recommendation of County Services for the Elderly Director Wanda Davis, the Commission voted 2-1 to accept a bid from Lentz Express in the amount of $7.00 per meal, which is the same price the business currently charges to provide the meals. Commission Chairman Bill Pollock cast the lone dissenting vote.

It was among two bids opened last week. The Pizza Bakery, also of Horton, submitted a bid in the amount of $8.50 per meal.

Seniors currently pay $3 per meal, with the county paying the remainder of the cost.

The meals are delivered Monday through Friday, excluding holidays and inclement weather.

(KLZA)-- Developers of a proposed niobium mine in southeast Nebraska are brushing off an announced “investigation” by a New York law firm over its delayed annual financial report for 2022-23.

The firm, Pomerantz LLP, bills itself as a “premier firm” in the areas of corporate litigation, and stated in a press release earlier this month that it was probing whether NioCorp and its officers or directors “engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.”

A spokesman for NioCorp and a former board member of the project dismissed the probe as “trolling for clients” to file a lawsuit.

Former State Sen. Tony Fulton, who once served on the NioCorp Board of Directors, had a similar response, likening the effort by the law firm to “ambulance chasers.

NioCorp, which has obtained options on land near Elk Creek, has seen its stock price on NASDAQ drop from over $10 per share in March to $4.09 on Tuesday.

A spokesman said he could not comment on the stock price drop, but Fulton said that some investors became upset after a move by NioCorp to join with GX Accounting Corp. didn’t reap as much of an investment in the project as expected.

A critical minerals mine in southeast Nebraska has been discussed for at least five decades, and NioCorp is led by an executive, Mark A. Smith, who was involved in Molycorp, a firm that had explored the Elk Creek project 30 years ago.

But attracting the estimated $1.2 billion in investments to get the deep-rock mine off and running has proven to be challenging. At one time, Smith had said that fund raising for the Elk Creek Superalloy Materials Project would be completed by 2018.

Dozens of Nebraskans have invested in the project, placing a high-risk bet that the project will become reality. It has been promoted as creating 450 jobs with an annual payroll exceeding $1 billion.

The mine would extract and process niobium, scandium and titanium, minerals used to harden steel, make aluminum stronger and employed as a pigment in paint.

Fulton said he remains optimistic about the project, while acknowledging that it is not a sure thing.

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education met Friday, Nov. 17.

Board members voted to approve the 2022-23 audit provided by Clevenger & Associates. Also approved was participation in athletics for 6th grade students beginning with the 2024-25 school year.

Board members also approved a snow removal bid from Garrett Burge for the current school year.

Superintendent Korey Miles reported the new security camera project is completed and that a new door lock system will be installed beginning December 18 and should be completed by the time staff members return to school on January 2.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Corporation Commission has approved a proposed settlement agreement in the Evergy rate case. The unanimous agreement, resolving all issues in the case, was submitted to the Commission on September 29 following negotiations between KCC staff, Evergy, the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board, and a variety of groups representing commercial, educational, and environmental interests. The proposed settlement was reached Tuesday.

According to a release from the KCC, Evergy, in its application, sought a net revenue increase of $204 million, or 9.77%, for Evergy Kansas Central, formerly Westar, and a net revenue increase of $14 million, or 1.95%, for Evergy Kansas Metro, formerly KCP&L. Under the approved settlement agreement, Evergy Kansas Central will receive a net revenue increase of $74 million, a 3.54%, and Evergy Kansas Metro will receive a net revenue decrease of $32.9 million, or 4.53%.

The average monthly impact to residential customers will be an increase of $4.64 per month for Evergy Kansas Central customers and a decrease of $6.07 per month for Evergy Metro customers. The new rates will take effect based on the customer billing cycle date beginning December 21, 2023.

The Commission received comments from ratepayers at three public hearings held in July. In addition, the Commission also received 3,915 public comments through its Office of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection. The Commission noted that today- decision was issued with due consideration of those comments.

(KAIR)--The Board of Education, for the Atchison Public Schools, has approved a new open enrollment policy for non-resident students. Prior to approval, the School Board held a hearing on the new policy prior to the start of the November 13 regular board meeting.

The policy is the result of legislation passed and signed by Governor Kelly in 2022. The law, which will take effect with the 2024-25 school year, will allow students to transfer to any school in Kansas as long as the school has space. Schools districts are required to establish a formal policy on how they will handle the new directive by January 1, 2024.

Like all districts, USD 409 will be required by May 1st of each year to determine the capacity of the district to accept non-resident students. The district also must determine the number of students expected to attend and the number of open seats available for non-resident students. Non-resident students would be required to apply for enrollment in June of each year.

(MSC News)--New details come to light regarding the security incident that shut down the information systems used by the Kansas Courts.

On Tuesday, the seven justices of the Kansas Supreme Court released a joint statement regarding the incident, which the statement says was caused by cybercriminals who also stole data, threatening to post it to the dark web if their unspecified demands were not met. The statement notes that the state is "working with cybersecurity experts to identify the data quickly and securely so we can conduct a comprehensive review to determine the full scope of what personal information the cybercriminals may have stolen," with a preliminary review indicating that " it appears the stolen information includes Office of Judicial Administration files, district court case records on appeal, and other data, some of which may be confidential under law." The statement continues by saying that a full review of what was stolen is "a high priority" that will take time.

The statement calls the October 12 attack "evil and criminal," adding that the crime was perpetrated through "a sophisticated and foreign cyberattack," which has affected daily operations of the state's appellate courts and district courts in 104 Kansas counties.

The state is working with cybersecurity experts to guard against future attacks, with the statement saying it will likely take several weeks "to return safely to normal operations, including electronic filing."

Two service centers recently opened in Topeka to allow public and professional access to the Kansas Courts as the online system remains offline.

(KNZA)--An early Monday evening two-vehicle Jackson County wreck sent one person to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 75 Highway, north of 110th Road, shortly before 6:30.

The Patrol reports 47-year-old Charles Freed, of Ozawkie, was driving a SUV northbound in the left lane when, for an unknown reason, he went left of center and struck a SUV driven by 54-year-old Tammie Soden, of Muscotah. Her vehicle left the roadway and came to rest in the ditch. .

Soden was transported to a Topeka hospital for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

Freed and a passenger in his vehicle, 50-year-old Robert Shutts, of Topeka, were not hurt. Also a passenger in the Soden vehicle, 56-year-old James Betts, of Muscotah, was not injured.

The Patrol reports all four occupants were wearing seat belts when the wreck occurred.

(KNZA)--Holton USD 336 superintendent Bob Davies has announced he will retire at the end of the current school year.

The USD 336 Board of Education accepted his resignation when they meet last week, effective June 30th.

Davies has served as superintendent since July 2017.

(KNZA)--As part of National Rural Health Day, Sabetha Community Hospital announced Monday it has been recognized with a 2023 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Quality & in Outcomes. Compiled by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards honor top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in Quality, Outcomes and/or Patient Perspective.

“We are deeply honored to receive this award for excellence in quality and also for outcomes. This recognition is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our entire team, who are committed to providing the highest level of care to our patients. We are committed to continuous improvement and will continue to strive to provide even better care in the years to come,” says Chief Executive Officer, Dr. James Longabaugh.

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, the industry- most comprehensive and objective assessment of rural hospital performance. INDEX data is relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations and state offices of rural health around the country to measure and monitor performance across several areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

“Wherever we go in rural America, we witness first-hand the commitment, determination, and compassion with which rural hospitals serve their communities. Rural healthcare truly is mission-driven,” said Michael Topchik, National Leader, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “This National Rural Health Day, let us recognize the efforts of this year- Performance Leadership Award winners and all those driven to deliver high quality care throughout rural communities.”

Sabetha Community Hospital is a 25-bed critical access facility providing acute care including obstetrics, skilled care, home health, swing bed and hospice, and a broad range of outpatient services.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph, Missouri woman has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in the death of a St. Joseph man.

KQ2-TV reports police were called to a residence in the 47-hundred block of Shawnee Road around 1:30 Monday morning where they found 67-year-old Michael Miller dead of an apparent gunshot wound.

60-year-old Eva Schelert, who was an occupant of the home, was taken into custody at the scene and was charged Monday afternoon by the Buchanan County Prosecuting Attorney.

Police say the initial investigation indicates the death was the result of a domestic dispute.

Schelert is being held in the Buchanan County Jail without bond and is scheduled to appear in a Buchanan County courtroom Wednesday morning.

(KLZA)- An informational meeting on how to manage emerald ash borer will be held at the Nemaha County, Nebraska, 4-H Building on Tuesday, November, 28 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Pre-registration is required to make sure there is enough interest to conduct the meeting. If interested, you must register by Tuesday, November 21 by calling the Nemaha County Extension Office at 402-274-4755.

During the program it will teach what to look for in your trees to indicate there is an Emerald Ash Borer infestation; what can be done to manage the problem and tree replacement options for those who choose to remove and replace infested ash trees.

Emerald Ash Borers were found at Indian Cave State Park earlier this year.

(KLZA)-- An Auburn, NE. woman suffered what the Missouri Highway Patrol described as moderate injuries in a two-vehicle wreck Friday night a mile west of Rock Port, Missouri on US Highway 136.

The report on the wreck indicates that 19-year-old Breanna Smith of Auburn was westbound, following a Toyota Highlander, driven by 85-year-old James Gerking of Brock, Nebraska and her car struck the rear of the Gerking vehicle.

Smiths car traveled off the north side of the highway and down an embankment coming to rest in a field. The Gerking vehicle came to a controlled stop.

Smith was transported by the Atchison Holt Ambulance to the Fairfax Community Hospital for treatment of her injuries.

Both vehicles suffered extensive damage in the wreck. The occupants of both vehicles were wearing safety devices at the time of the wreck.

(KLZA)-- Winter release rates from Gavins Point Dam on the Missouri River at Yankton, South Dakota, will be slightly higher than what they were last winter according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Northwest Division.

The flow support season ends Friday, December 1 at the mouth of the Missouri River.

Gavins Point release rates will be reduced to 15,000 cfs beginning around Wednesday, Nov. 22 at a rate of 3,000 cfs per day, then at a rate of 1,000 cfs every 5 days to the winter release rate of 13,000 cfs.

October runoff in the Missouri River basin above Sioux City, Iowa, was 1.5 million-acre-feet, which is 124% of normal. Runoff was above average in every region except Sioux City, which was below average.

Based on the most recent seasonal drought outlook, drought conditions are expected to persist through the end of January in the upper Basin, with a potential for improvement in the lower Basin.

The 2023 calendar year runoff forecast for the upper Basin, updated on Nov. 1, was 29.8 Million-Acre-Feet, 116% of average.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn City Council approved renewing a contract for the Nemaha County Sheriff's Department to provide law enforcement services for the community when they met last week.

Renewal of the contract was tabled the previous meeting when the Council vote was split on the renewal proposal. The community of Auburn will pay $400 thousand for the services for the next year.

The vote to renew was 3-2 with Council members Tom Clark and Shawn Clark casting nay votes.

Council member Tom Clark told his fellow Council members he was opposed to the contract due to what he feels is insufficient enforcement in several areas including overnight parking on city streets, people sleeping in vehicle, unlicensed vehicles and yard complaints.

(KAIR)--A Troy woman was injured early Saturday morning in a single-vehicle Atchison County wreck.

According to a report from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, emergency personnel responded to the wreck in the area of 286th and Finney Roads in rural Effingham shortly before 2:00.

Laurie said it appeared the driver, 26-year-old Sabrina Reynolds, had been eastbound when her Jeep Renegade left the roadway and entered a ditch.

Atchison County EMS and Rescue removed Reynolds from her vehicle.

Laurie said Reynolds suffered injuries to her ankle. She was transported to Atchison's Amberwell Health and was later transferred to another facility for further treatment.

Laurie said Reynolds was investigated for driving under the influence and transporting an open container.

(KAIR)--An early Sunday morning one-vehicle wreck in Atchison resulted in a power outage but left no injured.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, officers responded to the wreck at 6th Street and U.S. 59 Highway shortly before 2:30.

Wilson said an SUV driven by a St. Joseph, Missouri resident had been westbound on U.S.59 and was turning south onto 6th Street when the vehicle left the roadway and struck a utility pole.

The vehicle landed on its top. Wilson said the three occupants were able to get out of the vehicle before officers arrived.

EMS responded to the scene but no one required transport.

The utility pole and adjoining power lines were downed as a result of the wreck. Evergy crews were on the scene through the early morning hours to restore power to the area.

Traffic lights remain out until repairs can be made to a utility box.

The wreck remains under investigation.

(KMZA)--A late Friday morning two-vehicle Marshall Co wreck sent an Axtell man to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 36 Highway about two-tenths of a mile east of K-99.

The Patrol reports 21-year-old Sabastian Porting was eastbound when he moved to the westbound lane to pass an eastbound semi-truck. His car struck the semi's trailer when he attempted to move back into the eastbound lane due to an oncoming vehicle.

Porting was transported to Community Memorial Healthcare in Marysville for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

The semi driver from Boone, Iowa was not hurt.

The Patrol says both drivers were wearing seatbelts when the wreck occurred shortly before noon Friday.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha woman is facing felony child endangerment and other charges following a traffic stop last Thursday evening in Brown County.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle on U.S. 75 Highway near 160th Road for a tag light violation around 7:50.

Following the traffic stop, Merchant said the driver, 36-year-old Cynthia Flores, was arrested on charges of driving under the influence, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, obstruction and two counts of aggravated child endangerment.

Merchant said two children under the age of 18 were present in the vehicle at the time of the traffic stop.

Following her arrest, Flores was booked into the Brown County Jail. She was released Friday on a $2,500 OR bond.

(KLZA)--The Nemaha NRD Board of Directors currently has a vacancy in Subdistrict 9. Subdistrict 9 includes Falls City, Rulo, and Preston and the surrounding areas in Richardson County, NE.

(All of Townships 1-2N Range 16E, Sections 13-36 Township 1N Range 17E, and Sections 18-20 and 26-36 Township 1N Range 18E).

Interested applicants must reside within the boundaries of the subdistrict and meet all eligibility requirements for holding an elected office. Applications may be submitted to the NRD Board of Directors, 62161 Highway 136, Tecumseh, NE 68450 and will be accepted until the position is filled. The position is a two year term that will come back up for election in 2024. NRD board members are normally elected to four-year terms during the primary/general election in even numbered years.

For more information or a detailed description of Subdistrict 9 please contact the NRD at (402) 335-3325 or the Richardson County Election Commissioner.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Board of Education received a presentation from Julie Bauman, CPA, explaining the districts audit report for the 2022-23 fiscal year when they met Monday evening.

Included was the Auditors report, a statement of financial position, a statement of activities and a review of the expenditures of federal awards.

The Board accepted the audit during the meeting.

Superintendent Tim Heckenlively reported that the Educators Health Alliance of which the Falls City Public Schools are a part, approved the 2024-25 school year rates. Nearly every Nebraska school district now utilizes the alliance for health and dental coverage.

The premium increase will be 1.99% which is well below the national average. The rates are for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Nebraska.

(KLZA)-- During Tuesday's meeting of the Pawnee County Board of Commissioners, Pawnee City Council member Susan Eisenhauer met with the Board to discuss the minutes of the previous meeting in regards to the staff shortage and the threat from the Pawnee County Sheriff's Department of their terminating at the end of the year if personnel aren't provided raises that make their wages comparable to the surrounding counties.

Eisenhuar felt the minutes of the meeting should have included more information.

Commissioners voted to approve a three-year agreement with Maximus for the development of a central services cost allocation plan of reimbursement of federal funds for child support enforcement.

The Board also discussed the Pawnee County Memorial Hospital License Renewal application for 2024. No action was taken until more information can be gathered.

(KLZA)-- The Peru State College Foundation hosted their Fourth Giving Day in October.

As of November 15, $73,707 has been raised from 93 unique donors. In addition to the gifts, Peru State students contributed by participating in various volunteer events throughout the week.

The Giving Day goals were set at securing 156 different donors on Giving Day and 156 student volunteers or hours during the week. The number 156 is significant as Peru State- first day of classes was on October 24, 1867 - 156 years ago. While the goal for number of donors was not reached, it appears that student volunteers may have reached the goal of over 156 hours of community service according to Carrie Burnham, Director of Student Activities and Programs at Peru State. At least 14 different student groups reported on their Giving Day service activities.

Contributors were able to donate to a program or fund of their choice. Project ROAR secured the most contributions - $58,508 - from 48 different donors. A total of $73,707 secured during the Giving Day made it the largest amount garnered since the inception of the event. Alumni and friends from 19 different states made a donation this year - the most states represented since the inception of the Giving Day.

The picture accompanying this story is The Council for Exceptional Children members. They made sensory units for Calvert Elementary students in Auburn. Those participating in the Giving Day activity were: Front row (l to r) Mara Manzer (Auburn), Bernice Hilker (Omaha), and Riley Koch (Centralia, Kan.). Middle row (l to r) Zoe Ebel (Falls City), Megan Schmidt (Plymouth), Jordan Alves (Omaha), Grace Greenwood (Chappell), Mindy Bartels (Lincoln), and Kylie Hansen (Lincoln). Back row Steven Burgers (Bennington).

(KLZA)-- Mound City, Missouri has been selected to receive a Community Empowerment Grant, provided y Missouri Main Street Connection.

The 60/40 cost share grant will provide training, mentoring and technical services with staff members visiting Mound City to evaluate existing and future needs of the downtown.

Customized training and mentoring session will help Mound City Downtown Restoration and Revitalization Inc. with it's revitalization goals.

The grant is worth $30,800 in training and mentoring services.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty reviewed the hiring of employees at the Law Enforcement Center and utilizing the On-the-Job Training program through the Nebraska Department of Labor when he met with the Board of Commissioners Wednesday.

Through the program, the County could be reimbursed up to 50 percent of the employee's wage within the first year of employment if the employee qualifies for the program.

The Board also discussed the dispatching service with Sheriff Hardesty, with no action taken. An agreement with Animal Health Center for them to house dogs of persons jailed was discussed and will be considered for approval at a later date.

Commissioners also approved entering into a memorandum of understanding with the Village of Stella to place NRIN radio equipment on the village water tower.

An annual agreement to maintain a Radiological Emergency Response Plan with NPPD was also approved.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Public School Superintendent Tim Heckenlively reported during the District 56 Board meeting Monday night, the district is in discussion with Lund Company in regards to the initial stages of planning for an expansion project at North Elementary School.

The Board has received preliminary designs proposing the addition of two classrooms, a therapy room, a parent meeting space, and teacher offices.

The expansion would help increase the school districts childcare capacity and potentially consolidate all early childhood services into a single facility, allowing the district to streamline services and provide more effective support to students.

The proposed expansion project would be part of a Project WORDS Grant, aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for the districts youngest students.

(KAIR)--Despite the numbers on the scoreboard, there were only winners Friday morning, as 93.7 FM again hosted the annual "Turkey Bowling" competition, with Atchison City versus County in the 2023 matchup.

Competing outside the radio station studios, at 5th and Kansas, in Atchison, were Atchison City Commissioner La Rochelle Young and Atchison County Road and Bridge Superintendent Joe Snyder.

Both competitors, with frozen turkey in hand, courtesy of Atchison's ALPS grocery, rolled three sets, with Snyder taking the victory, 21 to 13. However, when both spoke at the competition's end, it was clear that competing against each other was a win for both:

Spectators, representing the City and County, looked on as the turkey was tossed, with one area resident, Carrie, winning her own frozen turkey, courtesy of ALPS, by choosing Snyder as the winner, prior to the start of the matchup.

To hear the full story, including participant reactions, go here.

(KAIR)--Two Leavenworth-based organizations, which provide service to Atchison County, are among programs earmarked to receive a portion of $1.6 million.

According to a release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, the funds are awarded to Kansas "to prevent family, domestic, and dating violence; to support victims of such violence; and to increase noncustodial parents’ time with their children safely."

The funds are granted by the Federal Health and Human Services for the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act and the Federal State Access and Visitation Program.

Among the recipients of the 2024 Federal Family Violence Prevention and Services Act Grant Awards is Leavenworth's Alliance Against Family Violence, which receives $59,783. The Alliance provides domestic violence-related support to victims in Atchison.

Among the recipients of the 2024 Federal State Access and Visitation Program funds is First Judicial District CASA Association, which provides resources for those in Atchison County. The Association is earmarked to receive $12,962.

When the awards were announced earlier this month, Kelly, in the release, said it's "imperative" that Kansas does "everything we can to ensure access and support for survivors of domestic violence,” adding that "the programs being funded are critical to the safety and well-being of the survivors and families impacted by those situations.”

The Family Violence Prevention and Services Act grants provide funds to domestic violence programs that ensure free services are available 24 hours a day for domestic violence victims and their children. Programs provide shelter, support groups, crisis intervention, advocacy in obtaining protection orders, transportation, and prevention education in schools and communities.

The State Access and Visitation Program grants provide funds to increase noncustodial parents’ access to and time with their children and provide services that benefit both parents with safeguards to minimize the risk of family violence for program participants. Funded agencies provide on-site supervision, exchange monitoring, therapeutic supervision, recording observations of visits, referrals to other services, and educational parenting classes.

(KAIR)--A stolen firearm and drugs were allegedly discovered in a Jackson County traffic stop, leading to the arrest of both Topeka men traveling in the Chevrolet Malibu.

Arrested was the driver, 37-year-old Shawn Brown, and his 20-year-old passenger, Ayden Prettyman, following the Thursday morning traffic stop, near 166th and U.S. Highway 75.

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, the deputy took the passenger, identified as Prettyman, into custody during the 9 A.M. stop, believing that Prettyman was reaching for a firearm. That weapon was then found to have been reported as stolen.

Brown faces charges for possession of stolen property, while Prettyman was arrested for possession of stolen property, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, and drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrests, the pair was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KAIR)--The execution of a search warrant, at a Jackson County residence Wednesday, led to the arrest of two occupants, stemming from a drug and burglary investigation.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, identifies the pair as 40-year-old Justin Stephens and 35-year-old Chellice Sparks, both of Mayetta.

Morse, in the release, says the search warrant was served on the rural Mayetta residence, near 190th and S. Roads, after his office received a report of a burglary to a residence, and two outbuildings, in the 18000 block of S. Road, near Mayetta, on November 9. Among the numerous items reported stolen from that property was a Kawasaki UTV and a 4-wheel-drive Club Car golf cart, that were then sold to an individual in Lawrence. The vehicles were later recovered.

During the search, drugs, drug paraphernalia and items believed to have been stolen in the S. Road burglary were allegedly found at the residence.

Stephens faces charges for burglary, felony theft, criminal trespass, and criminal possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, and aggravated endangerment of a child.
Sparks faces charges for burglary, felony theft, criminal trespass, criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, aggravated endangering a child, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a hallucinogenic drug.

Following their arrests Wednesday, the duo was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(MSC News)--An amended 2022 Kansas Crime Index Report has been released by the KBI, with an outdated reporting system blamed, in part, for the underreporting of violent crime statistics last year.
The Kansas Crime Index Report compiles crime statistics reported to the KBI by state and local law enforcement agencies throughout Kansas.

According to a release from Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the 2022 report indicated that violent crime in Kansas increased by 2.9% from 2021. It increased in each of the categories of violent crime except for murder, which saw a 2.9% decline from the previous year. A total of 13,808 violent crimes were reported in Kansas in the categories of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault and battery.
Violent crime in Kansas has been steadily rising each year since 2014, only declining slightly in 2021. Violent crime in 2022 was 17.5% above the 10-year average.

The release explains that data from the report is derived from standard offense and arrest reports submitted to the aforementioned problemantic Kansas Incident Based Reporting System by local law enforcement agencies across Kansas. The 2022 report required amending after the Wichita Police Department alerted the KBI that their agency- crime data appeared incomplete after the 2022 crime index was published. In working with the police department, a system error was identified. Not immediately noticed, the error caused thousands of offenses to not be counted by the reporting system in the July crime index report. Since then, the two law enforcement agencies have worked closely together to ensure all reports were received.

Once all additional reports were entered, nearly 5,000 additional reports of major violent crime and property crime offenses were collected from multiple agencies across Kansas. The reports came from the erred submission, as well as from agencies who were either catching up on crime data submissions not entered by the deadline, or who had additional crimes reported to their agency for 2022, after the original report was published.

The release calls the Kansas Incident Based Reporting System "an outdated system that operates with severe constraints on how statistics can be collected, utilized and interpreted." However, the release notes that "the KBI has been overseeing a major upgrade of [the reporting system]," and "once completed the new system will significantly improve crime reporting and crime trend analysis in Kansas."

(MSC News)--United States Senator Jerry Moran, of Kansas, has initiated an investigation with the U.S. Government Accountability Office regarding the Veterans Crisis Line after being alerted by current and former VA employees of substantial evidence of mismanagement, creating a danger to the health and safety of veterans nationwide.

That's according to a release from the Kansas Republican's office, with Moran, this week, calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary to make certain the VA fully cooperates with an independent investigation of the VA- Veterans Crisis Line.

Moran, in the release, called the VA's history of waiting lists "deplorable," adding that "if the Veterans Crisis Line is letting veterans who reach out in moments of desperation slip through the cracks, as alleged, it needs to be known and it needs to be stopped."

Moran is the ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee.

(KAIR)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, on Tuesday, announced that she and a bipartisan group of 25 other governors signed onto a letter calling on congressional leadership to reauthorize funding to make internet access affordable.

According to a release from Kelly's office, the Affordable Connectivity Program, known as ACP, provides lower-income families the ability to pay for high-speed internet - expanding access to high-speed internet across Kansas. It is projected that the ACP will run out of funding as early as April 2024. Reauthorization of the funding means that more than 21 million households across the country, including over 126,000 Kansans, will remain connected to the internet.

Kelly, in the release, explains why she's joined the other governors in signing the letter, saying that "access to high-speed internet is essential to how we learn, how we work, and how we communicate with our friends and family in today- global economy,” adding that "Congress should reauthorize this funding so that all Kansans can participate fully in our society.”

(MSC News)--Several area individuals are among 51 whose employment with the Kansas Turnpike Authority is being celebrated this year, with the group collectively having 790 years of service to the KTA.

According to a release, William Stumpf, of Mayetta, serves as Highway Maintenance Lead, and has served for 20-years. Russell Burk, of Valley Falls, celebrates his 15th year anniversary, and currently serves as Highway Maintenance Foreman. Brian Neiberger, of Meriden, is Utilities Superintendent, and also celebrates 15-years. Celebrating one decade on the job is Chad Schultz, of Ozawkie, who serves as Senior Utilities Tradesman.

Each year the Kansas Turnpike Authority recognizes employees and Kansas Highway Patrol troopers assigned to the Turnpike who are celebrating years-of-service anniversaries.

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

Following an executive session, the board accepted the resignation of high school science teacher Mariah Haverkamp, effective December 31, 2023.

The board approved the hiring of Tatum Lockwood to serve as high school biology/science teacher for the second semester of this school year.

The board approved the hiring of Taylor Vaughn as middle school/high school band instructor for the 2024-25 school year.

The board also accepted the resignation of high school head football coach Michael Downward and approved hiring Sheri Nelson as high school head softball coach.

In addition, the board accepted the resignation of Jennifer Pierce as high school cheer coach and approved hiring Staci Simmer to replace her, effective immediately.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Police Department will be joining many other law enforcement agencies across the state—including the Kansas Highway Patrol—in the Kansas Thanksgiving Safe Arrival traffic enforcement campaign, beginning Saturday, November 18 through Sunday, November 26.

Although all Kansas Traffic Laws will be enforced, a release says officers will be actively enforcing the state's occupant protection laws.

The increased enforcement is part of an effort to ensure residents' safe travel during the Thanksgiving holiday.

The Hiawatha Police Department will also provide education that serves as a reminder that buckling up saves lives.

A grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will support overtime enforcement efforts.

This Thanksgiving Holiday, make sure to buckle up. If you don’t make occupant protection a habit now, start a new tradition!

(KNZA)--A man was killed Wednesday afternoon after falling from a trash truck in Jefferson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol said the truck was northbound on Saratoga Drive in McClouth, and was negotiating a curve when 34-year-old Patrick Jones, of Perry, Georgia, fell from the rear passenger side of the truck.

The Patrol said Jones was pronounced dead at the scene. He was transported to the Barnett Family Funeral Home, in Oskaloosa.

The truck driver, 22-year-old Griffin Oxley, of Lawrence, and another passenger were not hurt.

The accident was reported shortly after 3:20 Wednesday afternoon.

(KNZA)--A man has been charged in the shooting death of a former Holton resident last month.

Shawnee County District Attorney Mike Kagy announced in a release Wednesday he has charged 32-year-old Aaron Serrano with second-degree murder in the October 15 shooting death of 23-year-old Jackson Danner.

Meanwhile, Topeka Police also announced Wednesday they are seeking a second suspect in the case, who they identified as 29-year-old Tremale Serrano, of Topeka.

Aaron Serrano was arrested November 3rd by U.S. Marshals in Clay County, Missouri on an outstanding warrant in an unrelated felony case.

He was extradited back to Topeka November 7th and is being held in the Shawnee County Jail on a $1 million bond.

Topeka Police responded to the 16-hundred block of Southwest 21st Street the morning of October 15 where they found Danner suffering from multiple gunshot wounds in the front yard of his residence. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Kagy said a search found a party may have been held at his residence before the incident. He said evidence showed that Danner had been pushed from his home into the yard where he was then shot and killed.

Danner was a 2018 graduate of Holton High School.

(KNZA)--The Greater Sabetha Community Foundation will will hold its 8th annual Give to Grow Match Day Friday, November 17 through Wednesday, November 22 to benefit 63 non-profit organizations and projects.

This year, eligible donations made through the Foundation will receive a prorated match from more than $130,000 in available funds.

In-person donations can be made Friday from 7 am to 5 pm at The Main Event located at 16 Main in Sabetha.

Donations can also be made on-line at givetogrowday.com or at various locations around town from Friday through Wednesday, November 22.

In addition, charitable donations can be mailed to the Greater Sabetha Community Foundation at P.O. Box 111, Sabetha, Kansas 66534. They should be posted by November 22nd.

Since its beginning, the annual Give to Grow Match Day has generated more than $1.6 million for local nonprofits and community projects.

Editor's note: the following release was submitted by Brown County Sheriff John Merchant

I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the John Marxen Jr. family for the donation of an 800 portable and an 800 mobile radio to the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

John and his son, Connor, met with us Saturday to deliver a mobile radio and Connor also presented us with a thank you and sketch he made of our badge.

John, Kacy and Connor met with us several weeks ago and presented us with a portable radio.

Beginning January 1, 2024-- new KDOT regulations require that all radios purchased for public safety use must be capable of accepting updates the state requires. Not all of the Sheriff's office 800 radios have that capability due to budget constraints.

John Marxen and his family recognized this and wanted to give back to their hometown community.

John's family wanted to donate these radios in memory of his parents, John and Carol Marxen who were two of the most caring, thoughful, and well respected members of the community. It was an honor to accept the radios on their behalf.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson-Brock School Board received updates from Superintendent Jeff Koehler Monday night on progress on the new addition to the school.

The Building Committee has reported the dirt work should be done by Thanksgiving.

Koehler also reported the State Fire Marshall has given approval for the electrical move in the school shop and that Whitecastle Roofing is doing inspection of the roof and finding a few areas of concern.

The Board voted to accept the resignation of Junior High English and Speech teacher Diane Freitas, effective at the end of the current school year.

Principal Lucus Dalinghaus reported that the ACT scores for Johnson-Brock students were above the national average in all categories.

(KLZA)-- The annual Christmas Opening in Auburn will be Thursday.

Events begin with a free children's movie at the Auburn State Theatre at 3:45 p.m

The Community Tree Lighting will be at 5:30 p.m.

From 5:45 - 8:00 p.m. there will be shopping, holiday performances and of course Santa Claus will be making an appearance during the evening.

A reminder that Highway 136 in Auburn will be closed during the event.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Board of Education approved the expenditure of up to nearly $7 thousand by the Pawnee City School Education Foundation when they met Monday evening.

The expenses include funds for the Fine Arts Fund, One Act, PE shoes for elementary students in need, classroom supplies and reimbursement to Donald Jacobs for the cost of special education endorsement courses and textbooks.

The Board accepted the auditors report for the fiscal year that ended August 31, 2023.

A full-time teaching contract for Shane Karst, to begin November 13 was approved.

It was also noted during the meeting that school has been cancelled for Wednesday, November 29 since Pawnee City was selected to host the District D1-1 Play Production contest. The high school building and cafeteria will be needed to host the contest that day.

(KNZA)-The Hiawatha Fire Department was dispatched early Wednesday morning to Ag Partners fertilizer building on South 12th Street.

Fire Chief Patrick Sheldon said the call came in shortly before 3 a.m., and when crews arrived they discovered heavy smoke exiting the eves of the building.

Making contact with AG Partners representatives, it was believed to be a sulfur pile on fire. Additional resources from Squad 48 and the Robinson Fire Department were called for man power and containment.

Crews entered the building to determine the source and origin of the fire, confirming the sulfur bin was indeed on fire.

Crews used on-site equipment to remove the active burning sulfur out of the building to be extinguished. Shortly after 5am, all sulfur had been removed from the building and did not pose any additional threat.

Sheldon said a bad situation was kept contained with no one being hurt nor damage to the facility.

He thanked the Brown County Sheriff's Office, Town and County EMS, Hiawatha Police Department, Squad 48, Ag Partners and Robinson Fire Department for their assistance.

(KAIR)--Atchison's annual country music concert is set to return this summer, with the announcement of the line-up for the July 19 event, which traditionally kicks-off the City's annual Amelia Earhart Festival, made this week.

Festival Coordinator Jacque Pregont, accompanied by volunteer Mary Jane Sowers, made the announcement Wednesday morning during an appearance on the 93.7 FM "Morning Petting Zoo" morning show with Neil Wieland.

Named as the headliner is legendary country music group Diamond Rio. Prior to their performance, singer Meghan Patrick will hit the Riverfront stage. Opening the evening's music will be Phil Vandel, who has performed on the riverfront several times on Saturday night and is a crowd favorite.

Tickets are available for purchase here.

Advance tickets are $20 (tax included) and will be $25 (tax included) on July 19 at the gate.

To hear the announcement, as made Wednesday, go here.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha property owner appeared before the City Commission Monday evening to discuss a property with a city sewer easement he wants to sale.

Terry Horner and his wife, Amy, own property at 727 Iowa Street, which contains storage units. The units were unknowingly constructed over the city's easement.

Horner said he has an opportunity to sell the property but the buyer's lender is requesting a written agreement with the city that they would not disturb the property if sewer line repairs are needed or a termination of the city's easement.

The city has sewer lines that run under portions of the buildings—including one of the main collection lines for a large portion of town. Public Works Director Brad Scott said they are PVC, heavy construction pipes that the city would likely bore and not trench for any necessary repairs or maintenance.

While commissioners were understanding of Horner's situation they were not in favor of terminating the city's sewer easement and a motion to execute an agreement not to disturb the property failed to gain approval.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School board Monday evening approved a new open enrollment policy for non-resident students.

The Board held a hearing on the new policy prior to their regular board meeting, with no public comments received.

The policy is the result of legislation passed and signed by Governor Kelly in 2022.

The law, which will take effect with the 2024-25 school year, will allow students to transfer to any school in Kansas as long as the school has space.

Schools districts are required to establish a formal policy on now they will handle the new directive by January 1, 2024.

Like all districts, USD 415 will be required by May 1st of each year to determine the capacity of the district to accept non-resident students. The district also must determine the number of students expected to attend and the number of open seats available for non-resident students.

Non-resident students would be required to apply for enrollment in June of each year.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission, acting as the board of county canvassers, canvassed ballots Monday from the November 7 general election and broke a tie vote for a position on the Leona City Council.

After a review of ballots cast, the returns were found to be accurate and just according to the unofficial meeting minutes.

A tie vote for the Leona City Council between write-in candidates Tiffany Ernzen, Joel Parker and Kelly Sale was broken by lot, with Ernzen determined the winner.

Ernzen will join write-in candidates Brenda Winters and Cathryn Adams in filling three open positions on the Council.

(KAIR)--A bond issue, funding a wide-range of improvements at the facilities of Atchison's Public Schools, will be decided by voters.

That follows approval by the Board of Education for Atchison's USD 409 during its meeting held Monday.

Placement of the $27 million bond issue before voters follows the work of district stakeholders, meeting as a Community Committee, who considered the priorities needing to be addressed, while keeping the cost to taxpayers in mind. According to Superintendent of Schools Dr. Renee Nugent, a key consideration was that the bond aligns with the district's vision, mission, and belief statements as well as the strategic plan. The committee met regularly through the fall to review feedback and input from staff and community patrons, as gauged through survey. Their work followed a needs assessment of current facilities conducted over the summer.

According to Nugent, the bond will positively impact students and staff at every attendance center, with extra focus on Atchison High School and Atchison Elementary School. The last bond, in 2012, focused on Atchison Middle School and the Roosevelt building, which now houses the district's Central School.

Decided to be included among the scope of the project is HVAC repair and replacement, as well as roof repair, or replacement if needed, at all schools in the district.
Atchison Elementary School would see renovation for a new entrance, a single office suite, and integrations of Pre-K into the interior of the school.
Atchison High School would see renovation for a new entrance, upgrades of the band and choir rooms, new turf, for football and baseball, as well as a resurfaced track, and renovation of the locker room.
District officials have said that security enhancements would be made through the renovation of the school building entranceways,

The $27.3 million bond would come with no increase to the bond and interest mill levy.

Now that the bond issue is approved, USD 409 will file a resolution with the Kansas Department of Education, and the City of Atchison, for a special bond election on February 6 of next year.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has issued an Executive Order recalling state public servants who have continued to work remotely since the COVID pandemic.

The order outlines specific circumstances in which remote work may be authorized by agency heads. The Executive Order is effective January 2, 2023.

Governor Pillen said “Nebraskans are back to work, and they expect that our agencies are fully staffed and open for business Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. “As public servants, we have a duty to meet that expectation, and deliver maximum value to the taxpayers.”

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Department of Revenue has released the quarterly lottery activity reports for Nebraska. The period covers July 1, 2023 through September 30, 2023.

During the three-month period Nebraska had $82,533,485 wagered on various lottery games across the state including Keno, pickle cards, Bingo and lottery / raffles.

Locally, during the quarter, $224,839 was wagered in Rulo. $13,611 in Auburn, $91,839 in Tecumseh, $14,942 in Syracuse and $386,359 in Otoe County.

For the quarter, wagers were down 2.9% from the previous quarter.

(KLZA)-- A 17-year-old female juvenile from Brownville, Nebraska suffered what were described as moderate injuries in a Friday afternoon wreck in Nodaway County, Missouri.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports three cars were eastbound on U-S 136 when a Kia Telluride operated by 62-year-ld Jon Garrigan of Council Bluff's Iowa slowed abruptly to yield to a stopped, unloading school bus.

A car drven by the juvenile struck the rear of the Garrigan vehicle and then a third car, driven by 64-year-old Curtis Jones of Tarkio, Missouri struck the rear of the car driven by the juvenile.

The juvenile was transported by the Nodaway County Ambulance to Mosaic Hospital in Maryville, Missouri. The occupants of the other vehicles were not injured.

The wreck occurred at 3:50 p.m. Friday. The Nodaway County Sheriff's Department assisted at the scene of the wreck.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office will be participating in the Buckle Up, Every Trip, Every Time mobilization between November 22, 2023 and November 26, 2023.

Deputies will be working overtime during this mobilization. Funding for this selective enforcement campaign will be provided by the NDOT Highway Safety Office.

Between November 22nd and November 26th, expect to see more deputies out working. Deputies working overtime will being conducting saturation patrols in high traffic areas, as well as throughout the County.

The goal of this enforcement campaign is to reduce the number of fatal and serious injury accidents in Nebraska. Please Buckle Up, Every Trip, Every Time. Drive Safe, and have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving.

(KLZA)-- A Hiawatha man is jailed in Richardson County on felony charges of sexual assault of a minor and sexual assault of a child.

The Richardson County Sheriff's Office says 66-year-old Richard Davidson was arrested November 7 on the charges.

The affidavit in the case has been sealed.

The case against Davidson was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.

(KMZA)--A rural Wamego man has been arrested in connection with a Tuesday morning shooting near St. George.

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, in a release, said deputies were dispatched to the 47-hundred block of Black Jack Road shortly after 6:00 for the report of a shooting.

Upon arrival, an individual was found suffering from a single gunshot wound. The victim, whose name has not been released, was taken to a Topeka hospital for treatment.

During the investigation, the release said 35-year-old Matthew Young was identified as a person of interest.

Young was arrested in Manhattan with the assistance of the Riley County Police Department on a charge of attempted second-degree murder.

Following his arrest, he was booked into the Pottawatomie County Jail.

The Sheriff's Office says the case remains under investigation and anyone with information is asked to contact Captain Tyler Garver at 785-457-3353. Tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at ptsheriff.com.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Community Foundation's third annual “ Thoughtful Giving Day, was a big success.

The Foundation announced Monday that 444 gifts totaling more than $136,000 were given to benefit 32 funds. Donations were taken both in-person and on-line.

The donations were matched with $115,000 in funding, providing more than $251,000 to help fund local projects.

The Beck-Bookman Library fund generated the largest amount of donations, totaling more than $27,000.

That was followed the Jackson County Ministerial Alliance Christmas Bureau fund, which received donations totaling nearly $11,000 and Vets Club Renovation fund, which received more than $10,000 in donations.

You can find the complete list of donations made to all the participating charitable funds by going to thoughtfulgivingday.com and clicking leaderboard.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man charged in the stabbing of another man in April has been sentenced to ten years in prison.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said 72-year-old Alsibiade “ Al” Cedeno-Escobar was sentenced Monday in Brown County District Court on a charge of aggravated assault.

He said Cedeno-Escobar- motion for probation, which included testimony from an expert in psychology from Kansas City, was denied after a lengthy hearing in front of District Judge Laura Johnson-McNish

Cedeno-Escobar was charged in connection with stabbing outside the Stars Inn, in Hiawatha, on April 7th. The victim was transported to Amberwell Health in Hiawatha for treatment and later released.

The case was investigated by the Hiawatha Police Department with assistance from the Brown County Sheriff's Office and Sac and Fox Police Department .

Hill said Cedeno-Escobar was remanded to the Brown County Jail for transport to the Kansas Department of Corrections to serve his sentence in state prison.

(KNZA)--A former Doniphan County Sheriff's deputy convicted on five child-sex related charges will have to wait awhile longer to learn his fate.

The sentencing for 35-year-old Nathaniel Keller was postponed last week in Doniphan County District Court to December 13.

A Doniphan County jury in September found Keller guilty of criminal sodomy, three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child and furnishing alcohol to a minor for illicit purposes.

He was acquitted on a charge of promoting obscenity to minors.

Keller was charged with sex crimes alleged to have occurred between May and December 2017 involving a girl who was 14 years old at the time.

He was arrested in June of 2021 after Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents served a search warrant on his home.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission met as a board of canvassers Monday to canvass ballots from the November 7th general election, and after the counting of provisional ballots there was a change in the initial outcome of the race for a position on the Horton City Commission.

Election night results showed Bruce Hodges winning a three-way race for the position of Commissioner of Police by three votes. However, after the counting of provisional ballots, Avery Thornton came out on top by one-vote.

The final results showed Thornton receiving 133 votes; Hodges 132 votes; and Kirk Griess 19 votes.

Commissioners also broke a tie-vote in the race for Powhattan mayor between incumbent Luke Pollock and write-in candidate Norwood " Jim "Foster.

Commissioner Rich Lehmkuhl drew a name from a hat to determine the winner, with Foster's name drawn.

(KLZA)-- The Nemaha County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in finding two men accused of stealing cash from an ATM in Auburn, Nebraska early Sunday.

The sheriff's office, in a release, said they received a call of a loud noise in the area of 23rd Street and Dahlke Avenue, around 4:30 a.m.

Upon arrival, deputies discovered that an ATM at the location had been pulled from its base and forced open.

An undetermined amount of cash was stolen.

The sheriff's office release say two men were responsible for the theft, they were seen using a 2005 white, Ford F-350. The pickup has now been recovered.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Nemaha County Sheriff's Office at 402 - 274-3139.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office, in partnership with Southeast Nebraska Community Action is once again conducting “Stuff the Cruiser,” toy drive events in Humboldt and Falls City.

Beginning Friday, November, 17, donation boxes are being placed at the Dollar General stores in Humboldt and Falls City and there will be a donation box at the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center where items can be dropped off.

The Stuff the Cruiser events are planned for Saturday, December 2 at the Dollar General in Humboldt from 10 a.m - 2 p.m. and on Saturday, December 9 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Dollar General in Falls City and at Farm and City Supply in Falls City.

During the Stuff the Cruiser events, the public is encouraged to purchase a toy for a child and place it in the Sheriff's Department cruiser parked outside the store.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty and County Attorney Samantha Scheitel met with Richardson County Commissioners last week to develop a plan to provide dispatching service to the Richardson County Sheriff's Department if the current services being provided by the City of Beatrice, 911 Southeast Communications Center would not be renewed.

Attorney Scheitel requested that a plan be in place for the dispatching services for the Sheriff's Office before formally notifying the City of Beatrice, 911 SE communications Center that Richardson County does not intend to renew a contract.

The matter will be placed on the December 6 Commissioners agenda for an update on the plan for dispatching services for the Sheriff's Office.

In other business Sheriff Hardesty reported his office has been approved for grants from the Nebraska Department of Transportation, Highway Safety Office for traffic programs “Click It or Ticket” to be held November 22 - 26 and for “Drive Sober” to be held later in December.

(KLZA)-- On a daily basis, emergency responders put their lives on the line along highways responding to crash scenes. These responders include police officers, fire fighters, EMS, tow truck operators and highway workers. They respond to traffic incidents, assist drivers, and help keep traffic flowing.

According to the Federal Highway Administration, traffic incidents are the leading cause of death for EMS responders and law enforcement officers. To remind motorists what- on the line, the FHWA has declared the week of Nov. 13-17 as National Crash Responder Safety Week.

Missouri- Move Over law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary MoDOT, law enforcement or other emergency vehicles with flashing lights on. To help protect those who protect us, all 50 states enforce some form of the Move Over law.

In 2022, more than 54,000 traffic crashes were reported on Missouri roadways that required emergency response. MoDOT emergency response personnel respond to more than 4,500 traffic incidents each month on average.

Crash Responder Safety Week is an opportunity to remind drivers to adhere to the various Move Over laws, educate drivers on crash prevention and promote life-saving training for all traffic incident responders.

(KLZA)-- A Hiawatha man is jailed in Richardson County on felony charges of sexual assault of a minor and sexual assault of a child.

66-year-old Richard T. Davidson was arrested in Brown County Kansas on November 7.

The affidavit in the case has been sealed. The case against Davidson was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.

(KLZA)-- A Hiawatha man is jailed in Richardson County on felony charges of sexual assault of a minor and sexual assault of a child.

66-year-old Richard T. Davidson was arrested in Brown County Kansas on November 7.

The affidavit in the case has been sealed. The case against Davidson was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.

(KNZA)--A Leavenworth teenager was killed Saturday night in a three-vehicle wreck in western Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 18-year-old Landon Vaughn was driving eastbound on I-70, about five miles east of Marshall Junction, when his car traveled off the roadway.

The vehicle traveled through the median cables and spun into oncoming traffic where was struck by two westbound semi tractor-trailers.

The Patrol says Vaughn was ejected from his car. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

One of the semi drivers and his passenger were transported for hospitalized treatment of suspected minor injuries. The other semi driver was not injured.

The wreck was reported shortly after 8:30 Saturday night.

(KNZA)--One person was injured Sunday afternoon when a Jackson County Sheriff's Office patrol vehicle responding to an emegency call rear-ended another vehicle west of Holton.

The Kansas Highway Patrol said it happened around 3:45 at the intersection of K-16 Highway and O Road.

The Patrol reports a SUV driven by Jackson County Sheriff's deputy 29-year-old Jose Martinez-Chaves, of Horton, was eastbound with his lights and sirens activated when he struck the rear of an eastbound pickup truck driven by 30-year-old Austin Peters, of Topeka, that was slowing to turn left onto O Road.

A passenger in the pickup, 59-year-old James Lovvorn, of Holton, was transported to the Holton Community Hospital with suspected minor injuries.

Both drivers and two other passenger's in the pickup were not hurt.

The Patrol says all five occupants were wearing seat belts when the wreck occurred.

(KLZA)--Applications are being accepted now for the Holt County, Missouri, Toy and Benevolent Fund.

Members of the fund encourage anyone who might need a little extra help during the holidays to apply. Applications are available at schools, area Head Starts and various places of employment throughout the county. You may also contact Steph Miller-McCann at 660-572-0002 or stop by Miller Realty in Mound City.

Holt County families can receive toys, food vouchers, gift cards and more.

Applications are due back by Wednesday, November, 15. Volunteers will deliver holiday bundles on Sunday, December 3 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Anyone wishing to donate to the fund can contact Steph Miller-McCann.

The goal has been set to raise $12 thousand. Monetary donations to provide gift cards and food vouchers are needed this year.

(KLZA)--Richardson County Commissioners reviewed a ruling from the Nebraska Commission of Industrial relations when they met Wednesday.

Three members of the Nebraska Commission of Industrial Relations have concluded that evidence submitted by the union representing employees of the Richardson County Road and Highway Department, failed to establish that a prohibited practice by the County had occurred.

In the conclusion, the commission ordered the Petition be dismissed.

The petition was filed following information concerning the County's new payroll system and vacation calculations was provided to the employees in April, 2022 and subsequent disagreement over reopening the current contract in regards to a Union proposed Memorandum of Understanding.

In the opinion from the Commission of Industrial Relations, it notes the Union was notified of the County Board's desire to offer raises to Union employees and was specifically requested to send a letter to begin negotiations.

The Union Director failed to make the request and the following frustrations were seen in various comments made by County Board members and Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. The Commission called those comments “unwise, unnecessary, and made out of frustration, but does not mean they were in violation,” noting that information was poorly communicated.

The Commission noted there was no testimony from Union members or Commissioners, and the lack of documentary evidence solidifies that no offer of a pay raise was made or rejected by either party. No evidence was found that the County Board offered a 10% raise for the union members, on the condition that the members dissolve the union.

(KNZA)--A Valley Falls woman was injured early Thursday morning after her car struck an airborne deer that has been hit by another vehicle on a Jefferson County highway.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash occurred on K-4 Highway about one mile south of Meriden around 7:20.

The Patrol reports a SUV driven by 34-year-old Abel Curiel, of Omaha, Nebraska was northbound when he struck a deer that had entered the roadway.

Upon impact, the deer " vaulted" into the air and was struck by a southbound car driven by 26-year-old Michelle Tyrell before it landed on the ground.

Tyrell was transported by ambulance to a Topeka hospital with suspected minor injuries.

Curiel was not hurt.

The Patrol says both drivers were buckled up when the crash occurred.

(KAIR)--Two United States Senators, from Kansas, have introduced legislation to name the VA outpatient clinic in Kansas City, Kansas, after Captain Elwin “Al” Shopteese, a native of Jackson County, Kansas.

The legislation, introduced Thursday, was done so by U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, who serves as ranking member of the Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, and Senator Roger Marshall, MD. A release issued jointly by the two Kansas Republicans explains that the legislation formally designates the clinic as the “Captain Elwin Shopteese Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic” or the “Captain Elwin Shopteese VA Clinic.”

Moran, in the release, says the legislation "will help honor [Shopteese's] legacy and preserve his story for generations to come," with Marshall adding that Shopteese "exemplified bravery and patriotism to our great nation while fighting during the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge."

According to the release, Elwin Shopteese was born in Mayetta, Kansas, on July 16, 1921 and was a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. Upon high school graduation, he immediately enlisted in the Kansas National Guard and became a member of Company E, 137th Infantry Regiment. Shopteese and his company were involved in several battles across Europe during World War II, including the invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. He received a battlefield commission for his leadership while in combat at Omaha Beach. Shopteese earned a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart for his service during World War II and returned to Kansas to attend Haskell University in 1946 before his service in the Korean War.

After returning from the war, Shopteese began a life of service for his fellow Native Americans, specifically the Potawatomi. He served as a Tribal Council member and was directly involved in the creation of the Indian Community Alcoholism Resources Expeditors Recovery Home, where he served as executive director until the time of his passing on June 25, 1992.

The Kansas City VA outpatient clinic opened in July 2022 and is located at 9201 Parallel Pkwy, in Kansas City, Kansas.

(KNZA)--A dedication ceremony is planned Saturday morning, November 11th, for the new Veterans Memorial Park and museum in downtown Horton.

The project, spearheaded by community service organization Reinvent Horton and local veterans, has been several years in the making.

Reinvent Horton President Connie Werner said they wanted to do something to honor local veterans.

The Veterans Park and Museum are located in the 800 block of Central Avenue. The museum will house donated military memorabilia. The building features a mural that serves as a tribute to local veterans who were killed in action.

The dedication ceremony will begin at 11:00 Saturday morning with a presentation of arms, followed by a program featuring several speakers. There will also be a pinning ceremony for Veterans at the event.

There will be a luncheon at 12 noon at the Blue Building for the public. The afternoon can be spent touring the park and museum.

(KNZA)--The 27th Annual Jingle Bell Ride will hit the streets of Hiawatha on Sunday, November 12.

Organizers say the goal of the ride is to help the less fortunate children in Brown County experience the joy of Christmas.

Again this year, there will not be any public events around the courthouse square, instead residents are encouraged to watch from their neighborhood to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus and the decorated teams of horses and wagons.

Riders will start canvassing Hiawatha neighborhoods around 1:00 to collect donated gifts.

Needed are new unwrapped toys for those of all ages, monetary gifts and children's hats and gloves.

If you would like to donate a toy or a monetary gift, or to be placed on the route for pickup Sunday, your asked to call 785-741-0861.

Annually, the Jingle Bell Ride helps around 100 families and about 300 kids.

(KLZA)-- There is a new number to call for those wanting to contact the Holt County, Missouri Sheriff's Office.

The new number is 660-822-3001 or 660-822-3002.

The phone number change was made when a new phone system was put in the office.

The new fax number is 660-822-3005.

(KLZA--The annual Veteran's Day Celebration will take place in Falls City on Friday.

The day begins with an assembly at Falls City High School at 11 a.m. that is open to the public.

The program speaker will be Chief Warrant Officer 3, Retired, Joshua Hersh.

Hersh is a Falls City High School graduate, joining the army in 1990. His military career saw him serve in several positions including as a Blackhawk helicopter pilot.

Hersh served in Germany, Brindisi, Italy , Iraq and Afghanistan during his career, before retiring after 22 years of service in 2013.

During the program music will be provided by the combined bands and choirs from Falls City High School and Falls City Sacred Heart.

If you cannot attend in person, you can listen to a broadcast of the program on KTNC Radio, 1230 A.M. and 107.1 F.M.

Following the program, the Veterans Day parde on Stone Street will begin at 1:30.

The annual Veteran's Day Dinner, for Veterans and their families and friends will be served at 6:00 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church at 17th and Harlan Streets.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Attorney General- Office is alerting Consumers to be aware of bank scams because they are on the rise. The Federal Trade Commission has reported a tenfold increase in bank scams in the last three years.

Scams usually begin as fake emails or text messages from a legitimate-sounding bank. The messages may give you a security warning or fraud alert that sounds like a time-sensitive emergency. If you respond by opening the email or clicking on the link, you may be connected to a fake website or fake bank representative. The scammers will ask you for personal information, account numbers, passwords, or PINs.

Once a scammer has obtained this information, they would have access to steal your money from your account or impersonate you for other financial transactions.

To protect yourself:

• Know that your bank will never ask you to provide or confirm personal details or confidential information via text or email.

• Look for red flags like strange formatting, typos, incorrect grammar or spelling.

• Be wary of messages that provide links, email addresses, or phone numbers that ask you to click or respond.

• Finally, do not respond to any message claiming to be from a bank that you don’t use.

When in doubt, you should contact your bank directly, and don’t use the contact information provided to you by the scammer. Make sure to inform your bank immediately if you have been scammed, and be certain to change your password and PIN.

For more information, visit our website, ProtectTheGoodLife.Nebraska.gov, or to speak to a member of our Consumer Affairs Response Team, call 402-471-2682.

(KNZA)--A Horton man has been formally charged with rape and aggravated criminal sodomy.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said the two-count felony complaint was filed Wednesday in Brown County District Court against 25-year-old Cody Ptomey.

Hill said the charges allege conduct against an adult female.

Ptomey made his first appearance in a Brown County courtroom Wednesday afternoon before a district magistrate judge.

Bond was set at $125,000.

A preliminary hearing will be set on a date to be determined by the court.

Ptomey was arrested Monday following an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

He remains held in the Brown County Jail.

(KMZA)--A Wednesday morning Marshall County wreck sent a Topeka semi-truck driver to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reports 51-year-old Jeffrey Davis was westbound on U.S. 36 Highway, west of 19th Terrace, when he lost control of his semi, which crossed the center line and entered the south ditch. The semi struck a post, struck a field access drive and then overturned.

Davis was transported to Community Memorial Healthcare, in Marysville, with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says he was not wearing a seatbelt when the wreck occurred shortly after 10:30 Wednesday morning.

(KLZA)-- A second trial has been scheduled for an inmate charged in the deaths of two fellow prisoners at the Tecumseh State Correctional Institute in 2017.

33-year-old Eric Ramos has plead not guilty, and maintained during the first trial, that he was a victim of mistaken identity in the death of 31-year-old Michael Galindo. Galindo's cause of death has been listed as smoke inhalation, even though an autopsy determined he had been stabbed more than 130 times.

A riot in the prison started when prison officials found an intoxicated inmate, and then initiated cell searches for homemade “hooch” made by the prisoners.

Prosecutors believe at least four inmates may have been involved in the killing of Galindo, with Ramos being the only inmate charged.

The riot occurred in a maximum - security housing unit at the Tecumseh prison. An investigation found there was a high level of gang activity within the prison at the time of the riot.

Ramo's trial is scheduled to held November 13 to December 1, in Saline County Court.

The first trial was held in Johnson County where the prison is located. The judge at the first trial was Vicky Johnson who retired a year ago.

(KLZA)-- The U.S. Department of Agriculture  will begin mailing ballots this week for the Farm Service Agency county and urban county committee elections to all eligible agricultural producers and private landowners across the country.

Elections are occurring in certain Local Administrative Areas for these committee members who make important decisions about how Federal farm programs are administered locally. Producers and landowners must return ballots to their local FSA county office or have their ballots postmarked by Dec. 4, 2023, for those ballots to be counted.

Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. A cooperating producer is someone who has provided information about their farming or ranching operation to FSA, even if they have not applied or received program benefits. Additionally, producers who are not of legal voting age, but supervise and conduct farming operations for an entire farm, are eligible to vote in these elections.  

  For purposes of FSA county committee elections, every member of an American Indian Tribe is considered an agricultural landowner if the land on which the tribal member- voting eligibility is based is tribally owned or held in trust by the U.S. for the Tribe, even if the individual does not personally produce a crop on that land. Tribal agricultural landowners 18 years and older can contact their local FSA county office to register to vote.

Visit fsa.usda.gov/elections, for more information on county committee elections.  

(KAIR)--An 18-year-old Leavenworth teen who used the social media app Snapchat to make a threat that resulted in the temporary closure of a Leavenworth public pool has been sentenced to prison in Leavenworth County District Court.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Landen Burgess has been sentenced to 2-years-5-months of incarceration for attempted aggravated criminal threat.

The release explains that Burgess used Snapchat to threaten an employee of the Wollman Pool, a public pool in Leavenworth. As a result of the threat, the pool was temporarily closed.

According to court documents cited in the release, Burgess sent a picture of himself holding a gun and pointing it at the camera in a threatening manner. Additionally, Snapchat records showed a series of threatening text messages sent on July 26 and 27 of this year.

Burgess was arrested by a Leavenworth police officer on July 27.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth man, attempting repairs on his vehicle while traveling in Atchison Tuesday evening, required hospital treatment after his Ford van ran over him.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says the accident that left 67-year-old Thomas Sweet injured happened around 6:25 Tuesday evening, in the 1500 block of South U.S. Highway 73. It was there that Sweet, who had been southbound on the highway, pulled over onto the shoulder of the road, getting out of the van to look for the cause of a vehicle noise he was hearing. With the van still running, accidentally left in gear, Sweet climbed underneath it, with Wilson saying it was then that the vehicle moved forward, running over Sweet's legs, before stopping in an adjoining ditch.

A passerby, who saw the results of the accident, called 911, leading to response from emergency units, including Atchison County EMS.

EMS transported Sweet from the scene to St. Joseph, Missouri's Mosaic Life Care for treatment of his injuries.

(KAIR)--A Lawrence, Kansas resident, stopped for a traffic infraction early Tuesday morning in Atchison County, now faces drug charges.

According to a release from Atchison County Undersheriff Toby Smith, 56-year-old Sean Cruse was stopped in the 15000 block of U.S, Highway 59, and found to be driving on a suspended drivers license.

During the investigation that followed, a Sheriff's Office K-9 was deployed, and alerted to the vehicle, which resulted in a search.

According to Smith, the "search of Cruse's vehicle led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia."

Cruse was arrested on charges for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, suspended drivers license, no insurance, and expired tags.

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

(KAIR)--A Lawrence, Kansas resident, stopped for a traffic infraction early Tuesday morning in Atchison County, now faces drug charges.

According to a release from Atchison County Undersheriff Toby Smith, 56-year-old Sean Cruse was stopped in the 15000 block of U.S, Highway 59, and found to be driving on a suspended drivers license.

During the investigation that followed, a Sheriff's Office K-9 was deployed, and alerted to the vehicle, which resulted in a search.

According to Smith, the "search of Cruse's vehicle led to the discovery of suspected methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia."

Cruse was arrested on charges for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, suspended drivers license, no insurance, and expired tags.

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

Editors note: links are available at the bottom of this to story for the complete unofficial election results from area counties

(MSC News)--Voters Tuesday determined who should fill city and school board positions, while some decided special questions.

In Atchison County, among contested races was that for the school board of USD 377, with one of the three positions up for grabs contested.

Earning the favor of voters was Position #3 incumbent Wade Madden, who eartned 395 votes against challenger Carl Bosch, who received 68.

Incumbents were also victorious in the race for the school board of Atchison's USD 409, with the challenger seeking one of the three open seats defeated at the polls.

According to the unofficial results of yesterday's election, Sally Berger, Stefanie Gardner, and Brandi Ross were all elected to serve another term on the School Board, with Berger earning 552 votes, Ross with 485, and Gardner with 468.
Challenger Doug Tschauder earned the support of 365 City of Atchison voters in his attempt to fill one of the three open seats.

In Brown County, Mitchell Brown was elected to position 2 on the Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education, defeating challenger Richard Schilling by a vote of 353 to 208.

There were two contested races for the Horton City Commission. Bruce Hodges won a three-way race for Commissioner of Police, while Joshua White was elected as Commissioner of Parks and Recreation.

The Brown County Clerk's Office reported an 18 percent voter turnout.

In Doniphan County, William Noll, Carl Tharman and Mark Rounds were elected to the Highland Community College Board of Trustees.

Winning election to three positions in District 1 on the Doniphan West USD 111 Board of Education were Wesley Keller, Brad McCauley and Tana Snyder.

Elected to three positions in District 1 on the Riverside USD 114 board were Sue Bartley, Dustin Robinson and Erin Shackelford.

Timmy Kieser won re-election as Elwood Mayor. Cecil Garner, Dustin Robinson and Megan Shackelford were elected to the Elwood City Council.

Elected to the Troy City Council were Cody Miller and Kohlbe King.

Winning election to the White Cloud City Council were Linda Rhodd, Christopher Mooney, Katrina Nuzum, Karon Deroin and Robert Lock.

Voters in the city of Troy approved a one percent sales tax proposal, while voters in eight Doniphan County townships approved tax levies for road improvements.

The Doniphan County Clerk's Office reported a nearly 25 percent voter turnout.

In Jackson County, Kallie Kirk was elected to position 2 on the Jackson Heights USD 335 Board. Incumbent Neal Keeler won a three-way race for position three on the board and Michelle Schierling was elected to position 7.

For the Holton USD 336 Board, Rex Frazier won re-election to position 1 on the board, while incumbent Dena Swisher won a three-way race for position 7.

Voters in USD 336 also approved a special question to change how board members are elected, with all positions being elected at-large instead of from member districts.

For the Royal Valley USD 337 board, Ruth Slocum won election to position three and Rhonda Lefferd was elected to position 7.

In Nemaha County, Write-in candidate Doug Renyer was elected to position 4 on the Prairie Hills USD 113 board. Todd Grimes won election to position 5 on board and Leslie Scoby was elected to position 7, the at-large position.

On the Nemaha Central USD 115 Board, Kris Anderson defeated incumbent Owen Zinke for position 7.

In the race for Commissioner of Streets on the Sabetha City Commission, Joshua Burger won election over Megan Bunck even though he had withdrawn from the race.

In Marshall County, voters rejected a half-cent sales tax proposal to help fund the construction of a new 30-bed jail, with 64 percent of the votes cast against the proposal

Meanwhile, voters in Blue Rapids and Waterville approved half-cent sales tax proposals to fund general governmental services.

Atchison County election results both here and here.

Brown County election results here.

Doniphan Co election results here

Jackson Co election results here

Jefferson Co election results here.

Nemaha Co election results here.

Marshall Co election results here.

(MSC News)--Voters went to the polls Tuesday to determine who should fill city and school board positions. In addition, some voters decided the fate of special questions. Click on the links below for election results.

Brown County election results--https://www.brcoks.org/election-information/pages/election-results

(KNZA)--Voters on Tuesday will determine city and school board races, while some will decide special questions.

In Marshall County, voters will decide the fate of a half-cent sales tax proposal to help fund the construction of a new 30-bed jail. The new jail is to be built on county-owned property on 11th Terrance, in Marysville.

Voters in two Marshall County towns--Blue Rapids and Waterville--will decide whether to approve a half-cent sales tax to fund general governmental services.

In Doniphan County, voters in the city of Troy will decide if a one percent retailers sales tax should be levied to provide an adequate level of public services within the city, maintain and improve the city's infrastructure and minimize property tax increases. It would eliminate the existing one percent sales tax and would take effect January 1, 2024.

Also voters in eight Doniphan County townships will decide the fate of tax levies to fund road improvements.

In addition, voters in Holton USD 336 will decide whether to change to the at-large method of electing board members instead of from member districts.

The polls will be open Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 7 pm.

(KAIR)--An altercation, inside a vehicle, led to the arrest, Saturday, of a 32-year-old Effingham woman.

According to release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, Hillarie Liebermann was arrested that afternoon, in the 700 block of Effingham's George Street, for aggravated battery and criminal damage.

Laurie says the arrest followed an alleged altercation that occurred inside a vehicle traveling on U.S. Highway 73, between Atchison and Lancaster.

The arrest came after the 43-year-old victim alleged that Liebermann choked her and broke her eyeglasses during the altercation.

Liebermann was additionally arrested for an unrelated Leavenworth County District Court warrant charging her with battery and criminal trespass.

Once in custody, Liebermann was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

A second arrest on Saturday, in a separate case, sent a Topeka woman to jail on drug related charges.

According to Laurie, 36-year-old Tara Elder was taken into custody, following a traffic stop, shortly before 1:00 Saturday morning.

Her arrest followed a Deputy stopping her vehicle for the alleged traffic infraction in the 400 block of U.S. Highway 59, in Atchison. The investigation that followed led to the alleged discovery of the illegal drugs.

Elder was taken into custody on charges including driving while suspended, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Following her arrest, Elder was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KAIR)--An altercation, inside a vehicle, led to the arrest, Saturday, of a 32-year-old Effingham woman.

According to release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, Hillarie Liebermann was arrested that afternoon, in the 700 block of Effingham's George Street, for aggravated battery and criminal damage.

Laurie says the arrest followed an alleged altercation that occurred inside a vehicle traveling on U.S. Highway 73, between Atchison and Lancaster.

The arrest came after the 43-year-old victim alleged that Liebermann choked her and broke her eyeglasses during the altercation.

Liebermann was additionally arrested for an unrelated Leavenworth County District Court warrant charging her with battery and criminal trespass.

Once in custody, Liebermann was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

A second arrest on Saturday, in a separate case, sent a Topeka woman to jail on drug related charges.

According to Laurie, 36-year-old Tara Elder was taken into custody, following a traffic stop, shortly before 1:00 Saturday morning.

Her arrest followed a Deputy stopping her vehicle for the alleged traffic infraction in the 400 block of U.S. Highway 59, in Atchison. The investigation that followed led to the alleged discovery of the illegal drugs.

Elder was taken into custody on charges including driving while suspended, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Following her arrest, Elder was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KNZA)--A Horton man is facing multiple sex-related charges.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant said 25-year-old Cody Ptomey was arrested Monday on charges of rape, aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated kidnapping.

Merchant said the arrest was based on an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

Following his arrest, Ptomey was booked into the Brown County Jail.

(KMZA)--Representatives of the Nemaha County Fair Board met with the Nemaha County Commission last week to discuss plans to replace the horse barn at the fair grounds.

Meeting with the Commission were Deb Henry and Neal Haverkamp.

Discussion was held concerning the county acquiring land from the city of Seneca so that the county owns all the property where the fair activities take place. The Fair Board would pay the cost of the new building, but would ask the county to provide the land and the utilities for the building.

Commissioners advised they were supportive of the plan at this time, but asked that the Fair Board keep them updated on the progress of the new building.

In other business, the Commission approved a letter to be sent to the city of Seneca pledging $2,500 from the the county for the outdoor fitness court project. The amount is to be paid out of the county's Parks and Recreation fund.

Also at the request of the Jackson County Commission, the Commission voted sign a letter of support for the four-lane expansion of Highway 75, north of Holton.

(KNZA)--A late Monday morning in a one-vehicle Buchanan County, Missouri crash sent three St. Joseph residents to the hospital.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says 19-year-old Arial Parker was northbound on Missouri Route 371, about four miles south of St. Joseph, when her pickup truck traveled off the highway and struck an embankment. The vehicle went airborne about 80 feet before it struck the ground and overturned.

Parker and her two passengers, 23-year-old Dakota Tollefson and 29-year-old Spencer Tollefson, were transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph. The Patrol says Parker and Dakota Tollefson suffered suspected serious injuries, while Spencer Tollefson suffered moderate injuries.

The Patrol says all three occupants were not wearing seatbelts when the wreck occurred shortly before 11:30 Monday morning.

(KL:ZA)-- Richardson County Chief Deputy Sheriff, Jeremiah Franks informed the Richardson County Board during their November 2, meeting that the Sheriff's Department responded to 571 total calls in October, 367 of which were traffic stops.

The Sheriffs Department made 37 arrests during October and that currently, 13 inmates were being held in jail.

Deputy Franks also informed Board members that Deputy Sheriff Justin Dutcher will be absent from the department while serving on active duty for military deployment.

Brandon Schawang of Schawang Masonry met with the Board to review plans to reconstruct the northeast area of the Courthouse lawn and parking lot area to help eliminate a problem with water drainage leaking into the lower level of the Courthouse.

Schawang plans to submit an updated quote for the project during the Commissioners meeting coming up on Wednesday.

Commissioners will also be reviewing dispatching services for the County Sheriff's Department when they meet Wednesday. Sheriff Rick Hardesty and County Attorney Samantha Scheitel were unable to meet with the Board last week as they were participating in Career Day at Falls City High School.

(KAIR)--A Topeka man, accused of brandishing a knife during a Jackson County traffic stop, faces charges for threatening the Deputy.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, says 36-year-old Steven Donald Perry was arrested early Monday morning, near Mayetta, where his vehicle had been stopped for allegedly driving erratically. According to Morse, Perry, during the traffic stop, exited his vehicle and pulled out a knife, leading to his arrest.

Perry faces charges for aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, felony interference with law enforcement, and driving under the influence.

Following his arrest, Perry was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

The Prairie Band Pottawatomi Police assisted with the incident.

(KAIR)--Despite underway efforts to bring judicial branch information systems back online in phases, there is no firm timeline when they will be fully restored.
That word is delivered in a release from the Kansas Courts, updating the status of the repairs made necessary by what's being called "a security incident," which occurred October 12. The release explains that the Kansas court information systems have been offline since the targeting of the Office of Judicial Administration. Law enforcement has been made aware, along with the Kansas Information Security Office, with the release noting that "the Office of Judicial Administration is cooperating with their inquiry into the matter."

Chief Justice Marla Luckert, in the release, says the phased recovery includes upgrading firewalls, rebuilding the network, and securing the technology environment," with Luckert adding that they "are following best practices for restoring and managing [the] information systems safely and securely, and it takes time.”

Beyond rebuilding a safe and secure environment for its information systems, the judicial branch is planning how it will restore access to court case data. It will occur incrementally, and it will start with access to district court case information through a network of computers in the Kansas Judicial Center in Topeka.

Soon the judicial branch will have two information centers in the Kansas Judicial Center. One bank of computer terminals will be used to support district courts. It will be staffed by several employees from the Office of Judicial Administration and volunteers from nearby district courts. Together, they will access data and records to fill district court information needs.

A second group of computers in a first-floor meeting room will be used for public access to district court case information. To manage demand, the Office of Judicial Administration will set up an appointment system. People who need to search district court case information will use the appointment system to sign up for a 30-minute session. Searches must be done in person in the Judicial Center.

Initially, the public access center will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. If demand is great, and staffing available, evening hours could be offered.

Editor's note--the following was submitted by Brown Co Sheriff John Merchant

Below are statistics for the Brown County Sheriff's Office for the month of October:

DISPATCH RECEIVED THE FOLLOWING:

911 and non-emergent calls to dispatch

TOTAL 8904 , averages to about 296 calls per day.

DEPUTIES RESPONDED TO THE FOLLOWING:

ACCIDENTS 20

ANIMAL CALLS 12

ASSAULT/BATTERY 3

ASSIST OTHER AGENCY 18

COMMUNITY POLICING 67

CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY 1

CHILDREN IN NEED OF CARE 5

TRESPASS 1

DOMESTIC 1

DRONE DEPLOYMENTS 3

DISTURBANCE 1

DUI/DRUG INVESTIGATION 20

MEDICAL 8

MISC 6

OFFENDER REGISTRATION 24

PROPERTY LOST/FOUND 2

DRIVING COMPLAINTS 7

SEX OFFENSE 1

SUBPOENA SERVICE 99

SUSPICIOUS PERSON OR VEHICLE 6

THEFT 2

TRAFFIC STOPS 257

VEHICLE CHECKS 36

VIN's 14

WARRANTS 14

WELFARE CHECKS 3

OVER 632 INCIDENTS WHICH AVERAGE TO OVER 20 INCIDENTS PER DAY.

BROWN COUNTY JAILERS BOOKED IN 40 INMATES IN THE MONTH OF OCTOBER

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Community Foundation will hold its third annual Thoughtful Giving Day” Sunday, November 12.

Area residents will have the opportunity to make donations to 34 non-profit organizations affiliated with the Foundation.

Donations will be matched with up to $115,000 in available funding.

Donations can be made in-person Sunday afternoon from 1 to 5 at the Holton Community Theatre located at 401 New Jersey Avenue.

Donations can also be made on-line from midnight, November 6 through 11:59 pm Sunday, November 12 at thoughtfulgivingday.com where you can see a list of all the participating funds and organizations

In addition, donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 381, Holton, Kansas, 66436. They must be postmarked on or before Sunday, November 12th.

All donations are tax deductible and go directly to the non-profit organizations.

(KNZA)--Three St. Joseph, Missouri residents were injured early Sunday morning in a deer-related northwest Missouri crash.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the crash occurred on Route D in Andrew County, about six miles north of St. Joseph, around 1:45.

The Patrol reports 26-year-old Thomas Simonson was southbound when he attempted to avoid a deer. His car crossed the center line and he overcorrected. The vehicle traveled off the west side of the roadway and overturned.

Simonson and his two passengers, 34-year-old Brittany Cunningham and a three-year-old girl, were transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, for the treatment of suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says Simonson was the only occupant not wearing a seatbelt when the wreck occurred.

(KNZA)--A 19-year-old St. Joseph, Missouri man has been charged in connection with a shooting Friday evening at the Wal-Mart Store on South Belt Highway in St. Joseph.

KQ2-TV reports Sean McCush has been charged with first-degree assault and armed criminal action.

St. Joseph police responded to the shooting around 7:00.

Police said there was an altercation between two people inside the south vestibule and one person was shot.

The victim was transported by Buchanan County EMS to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, with critical injuries.

Police said McCush fled following the shooting and was later taken into custody.

McCush remains held in the Buchanan County Jail without bond and is scheduled to appear in a Buchanan County courtroom Tuesday morning.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council Wednesday evening unanimously adopted a resolution committing to the construction and launch of an outdoor fitness court by the end of 2024.

With the adoption of the resolution, the city officially accepted a $50,000 grant for the project and agreed to provide $50,000 in local matching funds. In addition, the city agrees to secure supplemental funding as needed through community sponsors to help fund the estimated $210,000 court.

The city was notified last month that it was among ten cities in the state selected to receive the grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, contingent on the city securing the additional funding needed.

Mayor Joe Mitchell expressed confidence the city's residents would agree the project is beneficial to the public and donations would be made to finish funding the project.

The Council was given a partial list of donations of labor, materials and funds for the project from different entities and businesses, some located in Seneca and some in the county.

The court, a 38 by 38-foot square of outdoor exercise fixtures, was developed by the National Fitness Campaign to provide a total fitness workout accessible to all ages and skill levels.

A site east of the Aquatic Center parking lot has been proposed for the court.

(KNZA)--A Holton man has been arrested for possession of child pornography.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said 33-year-old Jacob Nelson was arrested Friday by Sheriff's detectives on a Jackson County District Court warrant for 3 counts of sexual exploitation of a child.

Morse said that comes after the Jackson County Sheriff- Office executed a search warrant Thursday at 716 Pennsylvania Avenue in Holton.

Following his arrest, Nelson was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Morse said the case remains under investigation.

(KAIR)--Rock-ee the Rock Snake is enjoying his final days, prior to a winter break, at Atchison's River Road.

The idea was begun by Atchison's Jordan Wentz and family, who are asking contributors to collect their rocks this month, prior to the arrival of winter.

Wentz recently joined Neil Weiland on the 93.7 FM "Morning Petting Zoo," explaining the idea behind Rock-ee the Rock Snake, which has proven to be a successful community project. Listen here.

Wentz is asking that all rocks, comprising Rock-ee, to be collected by November 11.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2023 CAT motor grader from Nebraska Machinery Company, priced through a Sourcewell Contract at $389,590. With an allowed trade-in of a 2017 CAT grader in an amount of $108,300 and a parts credit of $6 thousand and including front fenders, the final price to Richardson County will be $283,505.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported the County has 7 motor graders that are used in the 7 different grader districts and that there is a spare grader for emergencies and other uses on the county roads.

In other business the Board reviewed with Darveau proposed salary increases for the Road Department Foreman and the Administrative Assistant. Commissioners approved a 2 percent increase for both positions, effective as of July 1, 2023.

Darveau also informed the Board that the position of Road Foreman will be vacant at the end of December and that he will be advertising for the position to be filled.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Jingle Bell Ride, a Christmas toy Drive to benefit children of families in Richardson County served by Southeast Nebraska Community Action, will be held Sunday afternoon in Falls City.

Registration begins at noon wit the ride starting a 1 p.m., leaving from the Dollar Fresh parking lot at 1300 Stone Street.

The event will include face painting, horse rides and pictures with Santa. In addition there will be soup and refreshments. Free will donations are welcome.

Donation boxes and cans have also been placed in local businesses.

If you would like to donate a toy and get on the list of pickup stops by the riders contact Jo Watlington at 402-801-9211 or Bonnie Kean at 402-802-6337.

In addition, SENCA reminds everyone that applications for the Holiday Gift & Food Program are available at the SENCA Office at the Courthouse in Falls City through Friday, November 10.

(KAIR)--Atchison's Mount Saint Scholastica Monastery, this month, is celebrating the 160th anniversary of the arrival of the first Benedictine Sisters on the frontier, with two special events to be held, leading up to the anniversary date of November 11.

One part of the overall celebration is set for Sunday, when a concert by the Benedictine College Chamber Singers will be held. According to a release, the singers, under the direction of Dr. Timothy Tharaldson, will perfom "The Miracle of St. Scholastica," in St. Scholastica Chapel, located on the grounds of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery. Show time will be 7:00 Sunday evening, with the concert open to the public. While admission will be free, a free will offering will be accepted. Those who attend should enter through the doors at St. Cecelia's.

The release explains that the concert, and another special event planned for the end of next week, are being held to mark the November, 1863, arrival in Atchison of seven Benedictine Sisters who came to start a school for the local residents. St. Scholastica's Academy for young women opened on December 1, 1863, with forty-four students. In 1877, the sisters purchased Price Villa, now called St. Cecilia-, and moved from their location near St. Benedict- Church to the present site of the Mount St. Scholastica Monastery.

As part of the lead-up to the November 11 anniversary, a lantern procession will be held Friday, November 10. Beginning at the Haverty Center on the Benedictine College Campus, the processsion will make its way across Atchison to the Benedictine Sisters' monastery. Beginning that evening at 6:00, the procession is open to the public.
The release explains that the event is held to commemorate two men who, on November 11, 1863, "carried lanterns to protect the arriving Sisters from anti-Catholic threats." At the end of the walk to St. Scholastica Chapel, the participants will pray with the sisters and have refreshments. Participants are invited to bring a lantern if they have one, preferably using a battery-operated candle.

According to the release, the lantern procession will not only honor the Sisters on the 160th anniversary of their arrival, "but will call on the people of Atchison to continue to shine their light against the prejudices and violence of our world today."

(KAIR)--A homecoming of sorts, complete with a free evening of music, is planned for November 10, when Atchison native and 2008 Benedictine College graduate, Durrell Anthony, returns to his alma mater, in his native city, to perform.

Anthony, whose musical influence draws from the likes of Stevie Wonder and Lionel Richie, told MSC News in a 2021 interview that music has always been his top passion:

Anthony, in 2021, appeared in the national spotlight when he was selected as a contestant on NBC's "The Voice," where he was mentored by one of his musical idols and inspirations, John Legend.

According to a release from Benedictine College, Anthony's talent was well-known during his days as a student at BC, and he performed on campus regularly, where he was a featured singer at two of the college- signature Scholarship Ball events. He graduated in 2008 with a degree in Sociology, with the release noting that Anthony's "involvement on campus, his talent, and his willingness to share it were recognized at Commencement with the Fran Jabara Leadership Award."

Anthony, in 2010, moved to California for a summer job, joining several bands which led to his re-emersion in music, despite his inital goal of going into counseling and teaching. His music, the release says, led to Anthony sharing the stage with such names as Carrie Underwood, and performing at private events for well known brands.

Anthony continues to work on his original music, including such singles as "Speechless" and "While You're Here," available an all streaming platforms.

The free concert, being billed as "An Evening with Durrell Anthony," is planned for the evening of Friday, November 10, at the O'Malley-McAllister Auditorium on the campus of Benedictine College. Showtime is 7:00.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation is committed to keeping the State's highways clear whenever inclement weather impacts the state. However, according to a release from the state transportation agency, KDOT staffing shortages create the potential for highways to not be cleared of snow and ice in a timely manner.

The agency is in need of equipment operators - the agency- primary snowplow operators. The agency has dealt with reduced staffing in the past, but the shortages have been greater in recent years. Across the state, KDOT is about 25% short of its preferred number of snowplow operators needed to be fully staffed.

KDOT snowplow operators work 12-hour shifts. Highways and bridges will be pretreated in advance of approaching storms when possible. The agency also will deploy employees - including supervisors and managers - with a Commercial Driver- License to plow snow and will hire seasonal employees. KDOT assists selected applicants in obtaining a CDL, including providing training.

KDOT field offices made preparations in September and October to be ready for snow and ice season. Salt, sand and other materials are fully stocked and pre-maintenance work on snowplows and other equipment is complete.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph, Missouri man has been sentenced to 10 years and six months in federal prison without parole for his role in a conspiracy to distribute heroin and for illegally possessing firearms.

The U.S. Department of Justice said in a release that 43-year-old Franklin Hicks Jr., also known as “Frankie,” was handed the sentence Wednesday in federal court. Hicks pleaded guilty in May 2022 to participating in a conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin in the St. Joseph area from Sept. 1, 2019, to March 26, 2021, and to two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

Authorities say Hicks was in possession of 35.8 grams of heroin, nearly $2,700 cash and two firearms when he was arrested outside a hotel in St. Joseph in January 2021.

He is the third and final defendant to be sentenced in the case.

The case was investigated by the St. Joseph Police Department, the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office, DEA, and ATF.

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Commissioners met with Pawnee County Sheriff Braden Lang and members of his Department Tuesday. Scheduling, overtime and staffing issues were discussed during the meeting but no action was taken.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Susan Eisenhauer, a member of the City Council in Pawnee City discussed Sheriff's Department pay raises.

Commissioners voted to sign a Cyber Hygiene and Assessment Service request in regards to county cybersecurity.

County Clerk Candi Nicholas met with the board to discuss correspondence from United Healthcare. Pawnee County has received a health insurance premium rebate from United Healthcare for 2022 in an amount of $9,342, a 3.1 percent rebate of premiums paid. The Board approved a cash rebate to employees that contributed to their health insurance and county for premiums paid for 2022.

County Treasures Cindy Johnson reported to the Board that distress warrants in an amount of $14,726 have been turned over to the Sheriff's office for collection

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has approved bids for two bridge repair projects.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, the Commission Monday approved a bid from Baird Excavating, of Denton, for abutment berm slope repair on a bridge located on 180th Road about 2. 4 miles west of Severance in the amount of $26,267. It was among four bids received.

The Commission also approved a bid from Wagner Excavating, of Atchison, for abutment berm slope repair on a bridge located on Larkinburg Road, south of 150th Road, about five miles southeast of Bendena in the amount of $52,940. It was among two bids received.

Also at the request of Nate Daniels with Doniphan County Fire District #4, the Commission approved paying for vehicle extrication training for the county's rural fire districts and first responders. Rescue Specialists, of Salina, will provided the training at a cost of $1,500, with the cost to be paid from the Emergency Management budget.

(KNZA)--A Wednesday morning two-vehicle Buchanan County, Missouri wreck claimed the life of a St. Joseph man.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says killed in the wreck at the intersection of Missouri Highway 6 and 85th Road, four miles east of St. Joseph, was 70-year-old Ferol Engeman.

The Patrol reports Engeman was driving a Honda Accord northbound on 85th Road when he failed to yield the right-of-way to a westbound Jeep Wrangler on Highway 6, which struck the Accord.

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

The driver of the Jeep Wrangler, 48-year-old Jessica Gummelt, of Stewartville, was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

The wreck was reported shortly after 7:30 Wednesday morning.

(MSC News)--The State of Kansas ends October with total tax collections at $685.4 million. That is $29.1 million, or 4.1%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 7.4% from October 2022.

Individual income tax collections were $298.7 million. That is $51.3 million, or 14.7% below the estimate, and down 16.5% from October 2022. Corporate income tax collections were $57.5 million. That is $27.5 million, or 91.7% higher than the estimate and up 77.2% from October 2022.

“But for the unusually high number of individual income tax refunds, the October total tax receipts would have surpassed the estimate," said Secretary of Revenue Mark Burghart. “October refunds were $50.2 million more than in October 2022 and continue to reflect the influence of the SALT Parity Act, which presents a complicating variable in the revenue estimating process.”

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $306.0 million, which is $4.0 million, or 1.3% below the estimate and down $15.7 million, or 4.9%, from October 2022.

(KMZA)--Services have been set for a former Seneca resident killed last month in a two-vehicle wreck near Des Moines, Iowa.

Killed in the October 22nd wreck on Interstate-80 in Polk County, Iowa was 40-year-old Kimberly Barnhart.

The Iowa State Patrol reports she was the passenger in car driven by her 51-year-old William Barnhart, which struck the rear of a semi-truck.

William Barnhart was injured in the wreck.

Services for Kimberly Barnhart will be held at 10:30 Friday morning, November 3, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, in St. Benedict.

Barnhart is 2002 graduate of the former B&B High School.

She is survived locally by her parents, Stanley and Mary Alice Schmitz, of Seneca, along with two brothers, Harlan and Leroy Schmitz, both of Seneca.

Funeral arrangements can be viewed at https://www.mscnews.net/announcements/view.cfm?ak=22855

(KNZA)--Brown County residents will soon have an opportunity to participate in a countywide survey that is intended to quantify their preference on several key issues, and/or opportunities that will shape the future of the county

The Brown County Planning Commission worked with the ETC Market Research Institute, of Olathe, to develop the survey.

According to a news release, the survey is to be sent by direct mail to every household in the county. It will also be accessible to county residents on-line at browncountysurvey.org.

The release says the survey is projected to be distributed during the first part of this month.

All responses will be tabulated by the ETC Institute. Those responses are to be used to help develop a comprehensive plan for the county.

A few of the key issues, and/or, opportunities that will be in the survey include the following:

1. Support for or opposition to wind energy (turbines)

2. Support for or opposition to solar development/generation

3. Willingness to increase property tax to upgrade chip and seal roads

4. Reasons to live in Brown County

5. Issues facing Brown County

6. Access to parks, recreation, and the arts

7. The need for recreation facilities

8. Quality of infrastructure

9. Access to social services

10. Important traits for retaining citizens and attracting new citizens

(KNZA)---The 2023 Hiawatha Halloween Queen was crowned Tuesday evening, prior to the grand parade, which concluded the 109th annual Halloween Frolic.

Selected for the honor was Harper Smith, a senior at Sabetha High School. As the winner, Smith will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

The 1st runner-up and winner of a $500 scholarship was Lena Leatherman, a senior at Doniphan West High School.

Named as Miss Congeniality and the winner of a $250 scholarship was Nevaeh Rivera, a senior at Hiawatha High School.

10 area girls competed in this year's scholarship contest.

The girls were judged on an essay, talent and interview, along with leadership skills, community involvement and scholastic achievements.