(MSC News)--Kansas is considered at the top of the list for rural hospitals at risk of closure.

That's according to a recent report from the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment Reform.

WIBW-TV reports Kansas has had 8 hospitals close since 2015, along with 2 inpatient service closures.

The Center for Healthcare's report reveals that over 700 rural hospitals nationwide are at risk of closure, with Kansas making up 9% of the nation- at-risk rural hospitals and those at immediate risk.

Over half, or 360 of the 700 rural at-risk hospitals are at immediate risk of closing because of the severity of their financial problems.

In Kansas, there are currently 98 operating rural inpatient hospitals, with the report showing that 62 face a risk of closure, while 31 are at an immediate risk.

(MSC News)--More than $5.6 million has been awarded to 49 Kansas projects to strengthen the middle of the State's food supply chain, with several of the recipients locally based.

A release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly explains that "through the Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program, administered by the Kansas Department of Agriculture, eight grants will improve producers’ infrastructure, while the other 41 will strengthen the middle of the state- food supply chain operations.”

Kelly, in the release, says the State's "central location and abundant agriculture production are critical to the nation- food supply chain,” adding that "by investing in our producers and businesses in this sector, we are strengthening economic growth across the state.”

Locally, JET Produce and Meats, LLC, based in Leavenworth, is named as one of the eight infrastructure grant recipients, while equipment only grants are awarded to five locally connected operations. They are Bramble Rose Farm, LLC, of Basehor; the Cardinal Community Foundation, of Wetmore; the Wamego location of Highland Community College, Jirak Family Produce, LLC, of Cummings; Morning Light, LLC, of Hoyt, which does business as Morning Light Kombucha; and Next to Nature Farm, in Leavenworth.

According to the release, "the projects selected for funding were informed by engagement and outreach with underserved producers to understand the needs of the agriculture supply chain."

The awarded funding is part of the $420 million available through the federal American Rescue Plan.

(KAIR)--Two major, annual events are underway through the weekend in Doniphan County, and authorities are sending reminders regarding safe travel, and parking, for the activities.

The two events include the Sparks Flea Market and the White Cloud Flea Market, with the Kansas Highway Patrol sending a parking reminder to guests. According to a release, all visitors are reminded that any and all vehicles parked left of the white line, or closer than 30-feet from a stop sign, or another such violation on the highway, will receive a citation.

Additionally, visitors to the Doniphan County destinations are reminded that resurfacing work is being conducted on K-7 Highway, from Atchison to the Nebraska State Line. In some spots, the KHP says, traffic is reduced to one lane, and guided by a pilot car, meaning delays to the destinations.

KHP advises those travelers to use caution and to plan travels accordingly.

(KAIR)--Two major, annual events are underway through the weekend in Doniphan County, and authorities are sending reminders regarding safe travel, and parking, for the activities.

The two events include the Sparks Flea Market and the White Cloud Flea Market, with the Kansas Highway Patrol sending a parking reminder to guests. According to a release, all visitors are reminded that any and all vehicles parked left of the white line, or closer than 30-feet from a stop sign, or another such violation on the highway, will receive a citation.

Additionally, visitors to the Doniphan County destinations are reminded that resurfacing work is being conducted on K-7 Highway, from Atchison to the Nebraska State Line. In some spots, the KHP says, traffic is reduced to one lane, and guided by a pilot car, meaning delays to the destinations.

KHP advises those travelers to use caution and to plan travels accordingly.

(KMZA)--The city of Seneca is proposing a 2025 budget that calls for total expenditures of $12.4 million and maintains the same tax levy as the past several years.

The proposed budget contains an estimated tax rate of 32.583 mills, which is anticipated to generate more than $1 million in tax revenue.

Even though the mill levy will remain the same, the city will collect more than $58,000 in additional tax revenue due to a $1.7 million increase in the city's assessed valuation.

The Seneca City Council will consider adoption of the budget following a public hearing at their September 4th meeting. A hearing will also be held at the meeting on the city's intent to exceed the revenue neutral tax rate, which is 30.879 mills

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Agriculture has been awarded nearly $332,000 through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program for seven Kansas projects—including one local project.

Highland Community College's Viticulture and Enology Program is among those being awarded grant funds.

A release from the Department of Agriculture says HCC will employ a three-pronged marketing campaign to increase awareness of the vineyard and winery industry in Kansas. That will be done by leasing billboards along Kansas’ interstate highways to educate the public about the rich history of grapes and wine in Kansas, an accompanying social media campaign, and support of the second annual Cheers Kansas wine festival.

Funds for the grant program are presented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Marketing Service to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops.

(KAIR)--Two Ozawkie drivers wrecked while driving in Shawnee County Thursday morning, sending one of the two men to the hospital.

A report from the Kansas Highway Patrol says 35-year-old Trevor Payne was entering U.S. Highway 24, from K-4, driving behind a pickup truck which, for unknown reasons, put on their brakes, causing Payne's cargo van to rear-end the truck.

Payne, and his Missouri passenger, were not injured, but the KHP reports the driver of the rear-ended truck, 79-year-old Randell Scott did suffer a suspected minor injury, which sent him to St. Francis Hospital, in Topeka.

The wreck happened around 8:50 Thursday morning.

(KAIR)--The Atchison County Commission is in the final leg of finalizing the next fiscal year's budget.

According to County Finance Director, Mark Zeltner, the proposed mill levy, as it stands currently, means an increase from 51.564 in 2024 to 56.947 in 2025.

The public's chance to weigh-in on the budget will happen next week, with a combined notice of hearing given for the Commission to hold, first, a hearing regarding their intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate, followed by a budget hearing.

According to Zeltner, final approval of the budget will not happen until after those hearings are held Tuesday afternoon, beginning at 4:30, at the Atchison County Courthouse.

In a social media communication with constituents, Commission Chair Casey Quinn said she will provide literature at the session to help residents understand both the budget, and how the Commission arrived at the proposed, increased mill levy, adding that she looks "forward to the collaboration, communication, and participation" from the public.

(KLZA)--The community of Peru will receive $81,731 in Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant funds to be used for efficient streetlights in the downtown business district.

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy announced the awards totaling more than $958,000 to a dozen Nebraska communities.

The funds from the state come from the U.S. Department of Energy.

In addition, Nebraska City Utilities will receive $100,000 to cover the cost of energy efficient lighting along the main streets or entrances.

(KLZA)--A 10-year anniversary celebration will be held Friday from 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Family Medicine Clinic in Mound City, located at 51 State STreet.

Community Hospital in Fairfax owns the Mound City facility which is served by Dr. Dustin Carpenter who is also on the medical staff at Community Hospital in Fairfax.

Nearly 30,000 patient visits have been logged at the Family Medicine Clinic in Mound City since it opened on august 4, 2014.

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Public Power District's Cooper Nuclear Station will soon be implementing the use of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's national alert warning system which could be used to share emergency notifications to mobile devices and over radio and TV broadcasts.

FEMA's system is called the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System. Better known as IPAWS, it works by sending local emergency messages to the public through mobile phones using Wireless Emergency Alerts, to radio and television via the Emergency Alert System, and also on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Weather Radio.

In the case an emergency notification would need to be shared from NPPD about Cooper, IPAWS would send a notification to phones, radios, and TVs in a roughly 10-mile radius around the plant. This system is widely used by nuclear operators across the country as well as other agencies for emergency messages such as tornado warnings or amber alerts.

NPPD currently has sirens installed within a 10-mile radius of the plant that would sound in the case of an emergency. IPAWS will allow for NPPD to transition away from the use of sirens. As a part of the process to implement this system, NPPD will be testing IPAWS throughout the 10-mile radius surrounding the plant to ensure it operates properly.

This system is able to notify anyone within the 10-mile radius and does not require anyone to sign up through a specific app or service.

Additional information will be shared with the public, including when the system will go live. This transition could be as early as January 1, 2025. There is a test of the sirens scheduled for September 17 in Nemaha and Richardson Counties in Nebraska, and on September 18 in Atchison County, Missouri.

A test of the IPAWS system will also be conducted on these two days, and its possible individuals in the area will receive a test notification on their phones during this test.

(KLZA)--A vacancy has been filled on the Pawnee City Council.

On the recommendation of Mayor Charlie Hatfield, the Council Monday evening approved the appointment of Pat Hatfield, the local NPPD manager, to fill the seat left vacant by the resignation of Council member Laura Poskochil. The term runs until December 2026.

In other business, the Council set September 9 for the public hearing on the proposed city budget for the next fiscal year.

CPA Julie Bauman presented the final draft of the budget calling for property taxes in an amount of $230,059 with a levy of 63.8486 cents per $100 of assessed valuation. The levy includes 5-cents for an Interlocal Agreement with the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office and funds to pay for a street bond.

(KAIR)--One arrest is made, following a report of what authorities call a potential active shooter threat at the Kickapoo Nation School Thursday morning.

According to a release from the Kickapoo Tribal Police Department, they, along with the Horton Police Department, and the Brown County Sheriff's Office, all responded to a report of a potential shooter threat at the school, in Powhattan shortly, after 8:30.

The release said the suspect was immediately apprehended and taken into custody without incident, then transported to a holding facility where they await a court hearing.

No injuries were reported, with the release closing by saying the incident remains under investigation and no further comment will be given at this time.

(KLZA)-- Farmers Cooperative, which includes more than 70 locations in Southeast Nebraska and Northeastern Kansas, has announced plans to contruct a state-of-the-art grain shuttle loading facility near Pawnee City.

To be located on County Road 711, a release says the facility is strategically positioned to serve the region's grain producers, serving as an outlet for local grain production and addressing a growing need for efficient grain handling storage.

The release says construction of the facility will begin this fall and weather permitting, is expected to be fully operational by the fall of 2026.

The new facility is designed to have storage capacity of about 3.7 million bushels and will include a 110-car shuttle shipper on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railroad. Each of the four concrete tubes to be constructed will hold 820,000 bushels.

The release says the nearest comparable facilities are located 35 - 45 miles away from the Pawnee City site.

The facility will primarily handle corn and soybeans, with the ability to handle wheat, milo and specialty crops.

“This new facility represents a significant investment in the future of the Pawnee City area,” said Allan Zumpfe, President & CEO of Farmers Cooperative. “This new facility adds to our grain handling and storage capabilities in such a way that we are not only meeting the current needs of today- producers, but also positioning our company to support their growth for years to come."

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission, during a special meeting Tuesday morning, approved for publication a proposed 2025 city budget that calls for nearly $8.6 million in total expenditures and a nearly 1.6 mill levy decrease.

The action came on a 4-0 vote, with Commissioner Brian Shefferd absent.

City Administrator Brad Scott reviewed the budget proposal during a work session following Monday evening's regular meeting.

The proposed budget contains an estimated tax rate of 40.845 mills, which is anticipated to generate more than $1.4 million in local tax revenue.

Even though the mill levy will decrease, the city will collect nearly $115,000 in additional tax revenue due to a $4 million increase in the city's assessed valuation.

The Commission will consider adoption of the budget following a public hearing at their September 9th meeting. Following another hearing, the Commission will consider the adoption of a resolution to exceed the revenue neutral rate of 37.566 mills.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council approved two bids for maintenance projects at the city's Aquatic Center when they meet last week.

Torrey Brothers Construction, of Wamego, will paint the pool and refinish the mushroom features for a cost of $89,750. Preparatory work will begin this fall, with the pool to be painted next spring.

Safe Slide Restoration, of Fredericktown, Missouri, will refurbish the slides for a cost of $44,022. That project is expected to be completed this fall.

Bids were reviewed at the Council's August 7th meeting, but action was tabled so warranties and references could be checked.

In other business, the Council on a 5-1 vote approved a resolution giving the owner a mobile home trailer located in the Seneca Mobile Home Park at 501 Merton Street, which the city has deemed as unsafe, 60 days to remove the structure before the city takes action. Council member Ray Shinn abstained from voting because he wasn't present at the August 7th meeting when a public hearing was held on the structure. During the public comment portion of the meeting, local Attorney Gordon Olson, representing the mobile park owners, asked that the Council delay condemnation of the structure.

Also members of the Northeast Kansas Arts Foundation appeared before the Council to request permission to hold a “ Chalk the Walk” event on September 4th. The public will be invited to create sidewalk chalk art on a block of Main Street sidewalks. The Council gave their approval, contingent on the approval of affected business owners.

(KAIR)--A burglary, which occurred earlier this month at the Atchison American Legion, remains under investigation.

Happening at the Post #6 facility, located in the 1600 block of South 6th Street, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says the break-in occurred shortly before 2:00 on the morning of August 18.

After someone forced their way inside the building, Wilson says a safe, along with cash, were taken.

Police are continuing to seek whoever's responsible for the crime, with public input sought to help make an arrest.

Anyone with information related to the Atchison American Legion burglary should contact police at 913-367-4323.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County STEP Foundation's 4th annual STEP-Up Nemaha Match Day set a new record, netting over $247,000 for thirty-two funds.

The event was held August 23, with donations taken in-person and on-line.

STEP Treasurer Tim Rottinghaus said over $140,000 was raised on Match Day that when combined with the Patterson Family Foundation and STEP-Up supporter match money, the grand total grew to nearly $247,500.

Nemaha County Step Foundation Executive Director Tory Jost said said 416 gifts were received—including a $20,000 donation. She said all 32 funds received donations, which ranged from $50 to $26,330.

Eleven funds were successful in securing the maximum $4,000 match. The Centralia Project Fund (pool enhancements) brought in the most overall donations with $26,330 followed by the Spring Creek Golf Course Fund with $21,335, and then the STEP General Fund at $10,388.

For a complete list of funds and balances, check out the leaderboard at www.stepupnemaha.com.

(KMZA)--A 52-year-old Hiawatha man is accused of alleged sex crimes in Nemaha County.

According to a release from the Nemaha County Sheriff's Office, Rosalio De Lorenzana-Solares was arrested Sunday by the Sheriff's Office.

Nemaha County Attorney Brad Lippert says a criminal complaint has been filed in Nemaha County District Court charging Lorenzana-Solares with rape, aggravated criminal sodomy and aggravated sexual battery.

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

(KAIR)--Formal charges, with the addition of 1st-degree murder, are now filed against the Atchison woman accused of fleeing the scene of a City of Atchison crash before fleeing from an Atchison County Sheriff's Deputy, just prior to a second crash, early Sunday evening. Unbeknownst to law enforcement at the time, her 17-month-old child was inside the vehicle the whole time.

Atchison County Jail records show a new arrest for 28-year-old Maria Papalas, who is now charged with Murder in the First Degree in the commission of a felony following the death of her son, Mixalis Papalas-Schultz.

According to a Kansas Highway Patrol report, the child died Tuesday in Kansas City, at Children's Mercy Hospital, where he was taken Sunday with life-threatening injuries after being involved in both of the wrecks. The KHP, investigating the second wreck at the request of the Sheriff's Office, does note that the child was, at least in that wreck, properly restrained inside the vehicle.

Papalas, Tuesday, was formally charged during an Atchison County District Court appearance.

Along with murder, Papalas faces an extensive list of charges, ranging from reckless driving and DUI to aggravated child endangerment.

Following the second wreck, Papalas was transported for hospital care in Topeka, and released into the custody of the Atchison County Jail Monday.

It was around 5:30 Sunday evening when Atchison Police were notified of a hit and run crash into a wall, located in the 700 block of Atchison's S Street, complete with a description of the vehicle, now missing its front bumper.

Minutes later, using that information, a deputy spotted a match for the suspect, parked south of the city limits, on Sherman Road. Stopping, the deputy began speaking to the driver, who immediately rolled up her window and sped away.

The deputy, trying to follow, lost sight, but then saw what's described as "a cloud of dust on the west side of Sherman Road," which was caused, it was soon learned, after Papalas had crashed, running off the roadway, over a fence, and into trees.

Standing outside the wrecked vehicle as the deputy arrived, with emergency crews on the way, Papalas, according to a report from Sheriff Jack Laurie, was reaching through the window to remove her as-yet unseen child from the backseat.

When the deputy attempted to take Papalas into custody, she allegedly turned violent, and attacked, prior to being restrained and then hospitalized for what's reported as minor injuries.

She remains held in the Atchison County Jail on a $500,000 bond.

(KLZA)--The Omaha Public Power District is conducting drone inspections of various substations throughout its service territory this week.

The inspections began Monday morning and are planned to take place over the course of four days, going through Thursday, Aug. 29. The exact schedule could change, depending upon weather conditions.

Aerial surveys and inspections - using both drones and helicopters - are a regular part of OPPD's maintenance to ensure reliable power for customers. This latest effort is a continuation of this commitment to maintaining and improving the reliability of our infrastructure, specifically our substations.

OPPD's contractor for this work will notify local airfields and area aviation agencies of route specifics and timelines.

(KLZA)-- Peru State College is conducting it's first-ever Giving Week.

The Campus of a Thousand Oaks is buzzing with activity as new and returning students are beginning a new year.

Giving Week is a celebration of the collective spirit that has built and sustained Peru State for more than 157 years.

The Peru State Foundation hosted a 24-hour Giving Day in October in years past. The Foundation Board and staff earlier this year felt that a Giving Week correlating with the start of the 158th year of education would be a better way to go.

The areas of support for Giving Week are diverse. They include capital campaigns which includes Project ROAR, the AV Larson / Welcome Center and the Student Center.

Campaigns to support the various academic or athletic needs are also part of Giving Week. Donors can give to what they love by designating their gift to any area on campus that means the most to them.

Donors may also give funds to the Greatest Needs through the Foundation which provides funding to help maintain a vibrant campus culture.

Ten different challenges and or match programs will aid the event. One will match up to the first $10,000 raised. Other matches or challenges include the men's basketball program, volleyball program, Homecoming, music program, Hall of Fame, South Africa science trip, Dr. Seuss Day and School of Professional Studies.

To Give online, go to www.givecampus.com/emjyvx!

You can contact the Peru State College Foundation for more information.

(KAIR)--The Elwood Police Department, in conjunction with the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department, and Wathena Police, made two arrests and issued several traffic citations following a DUI checkpoint, conducted Friday evening.

According to a release from Elwood Police, one of the two arrested was Saint Joseph, Missouri resident Dustin Owens. He was taken into custody on charges for felony fleeing or eluding law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia, and reckless driving. He was additionally apprehended on a felony arrest warrant from Andrew County, Missouri.

The other arrest was that of Highland, Kansas resident Kimble Trainer, who was taken into custody for driving under the influence.

During the checkpoint, officers stopped 28 vehicles for motor vehicle violations.

According to the release, the DUI checkpoint was held " to help law enforcement in the fight against Impaired Driving in our communities and highways."

(KAIR)--Details are released regarding a Sunday evening vehicle pursuit that ended in a rollover crash that left two injured, including a 17-month-old child.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, it began early Sunday evening, when the Atchison Police Department was notified that a vehicle had crashed into a wall in the 700 block of Atchison's S Street, with police told the vehicle had lost it's front bumper in the crash, before leaving the scene.

About 10 minutes later, Laurie says, a deputy spotted a vehicle matching the description, south of the city limits, on Sherman Road. Parked in the grass off the roadway, just north of 244th Road on the east side of Sherman Road, the deputy ultimately made contact with the driver, identified as 28-year-old Maria Papalas, of Atchison, who "immediately began rolling up the window and then fled the scene at a high rate of speed."

Seeing only the driver inside the vehicle during the brief encounter, the deputy followed south on Sherman Road, but lost sight, before noticing what Laurie calls "a cloud of dust on the west side of Sherman Road," which was caused, it was soon learned, after Papalas had crashed, running off the roadway, over a fence, and into trees.

The deputy found Papalas standing outside the crashed vehicle, reaching through the window to remove her as-yet unseen child from the backseat. The deputy attempted to take her into custody, but Papalas allegedly refused to cooperate, hitting and kicking the deputy, before he was able to take her into custody. He then began to attend to the injured child until Atchison County Rescue and EMS arrived on the scene, with the child transported to Children's Mercy Hospital, in Kansas City, with life-threatening injuries.

Papalas, who was transported to Stormont-Vail, in Topeka, for the treatment of minor injuries, was released from the hospital's care Monday, and then booked into the Atchison County Jail. She faces multiple charges, including reckless driving, felony fleeing and eluding, driving under the influence, aggravated battery, aggravated child endangerment, interference with law enforcement, and battery on a law enforcement officer.

The Kansas Highway Patrol, who assisted at the Sunday evening scene, is handing the investigation into the crash, at the request of the Atchison County Sheriff's Office.

(KLZA)-- The Citzen Support Group in Humboldt has laid out a plan to help raise funds to support the Colonial Acres Nursting Home in Humboldt.

Sunday night a framework of the Citizen Support Campaign was agreed to. A broad-based community support initiative is moving forward to help with the post covid cash flow challenge, faced by the nursing home in Humboldt, with a goal of returing the facility to having a sustainable cash flow by January 1, 2025.

Through a grass roots community support effort, a goal has been set to raise $300,000 in three stages. Step 1 is $100,000 in 45 days which is Ocotber 9. Step 2 is $100,000 by November 30 and the third and final step is to raise another $100,000 by January 1, 2025.

The Humboldt Community Foundation will match individual gifts to the fund raising effort dollar-for-dollar up to a threshhold limit which is yet to be established.

Community leaders feel this is a great opportunity to achieve a combined $150,000, which would be halfway to the $300,000 goal.

The Humboldt Area Community Foundation Fund, working within the Nebraska Community Foundaiton, will serve as a conduit for donations. Directed donations to the Foundation in the name of the Humboldt Colonial Acres Nursing Home for this short-term cash flow challeng can be released immediately to the nursing home.

The Colonial Acres Nursing Home Board of Directors will be meeting Wednesday, August 28, to work on a rate increase, to bring the facility in line with other area care centers to help facilitate a balanced budget going forward.

The outreach effort is beginning immediately. If you wish to make a donation to support the citizen effort for the city owned, nursing home facility, you are encouraged to make a doantion via the Humboldt Area Community Foundation Fund in the name of this specific effort.

For more informaiton you may contact Humboldt Community Foundation, Chairman, Mark Novak at 402-770-8029.

Citizen Committee Chair, Ben Steffen says the plan is to allow everyone an opportunity to have a part in sustaining Colonial Acres Nursing Home which he called a community treasure.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners last week voted to waive the bidding requirements due to an emergency threatening serous loss of life, health and property in approving a quote of $251,388 with the Electronic Contracting Company from Lincoln, for the purchase of equipment, the installation and support and maintenance of equipment to be placed at the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center.

County IT Director Joe Buckminster reported he has made every effort to work with the curent provider of the system, Sweeper, for making improvements to the electronic control programming stations at the Law Enforcement Center. Buckminster said the company has not been responsive in getting things done and do not provide good support service. He said some current equipment has failed in the past year and has been very difficult to get repaired and issues resolved or equipment replaced. He said the software programming in the system has become outdated.

The new company will support the system for several years which is inlcued with an option to renew it.

Commissioners also approved a bid of $7,575 from Campbell Construction to repair the ceilings in the holding cells in the jail.

The Board met with County Officials and Department Heads to discuss and review the budget for the next Fiscal Year in regards to the recent changes passed by the Nebraska Legislature that go into effect on July 1, 2025.

A review of budget requests submitted by county departments continued. Changes proposed by Commissioners to the proposals will be returned to each office or department prior to next weeks meeting. The Public Hearing on the budget is tentatively scheduled for Tuesday evening, September 10 at 6:30.

The Board approved the reappointment of Terry Malcolm to the Veterans Service Committee for a 5-year term continuing through June 30, 2029, and received the annual financial report from Leon Wilhelm, representing the Richardson County Historical Society and their request for continued funding of the organization in an amount of $10 thousand.

(KLZA)-- August 26 - 31 is Overdose Awareness Week.

The 4-County Collaborative is highlighting this week in an attempt to help people combat addiction.

Collaborative Coordinator Laura Osborn notes that overdoses not only happen to those who regularly use substances, they also happen to individuals who are struggling with their mental health causing them to either self-medicate or consider and / or attempt suicide.

Osborne says it is important for people to know about naloxone and how to use it. Naloxone is a drug used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Naloxone is available at participating pharmacies for free.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services notes that 206 people died from drug overdoeses in 2022, 112 of which were opioid related.

To determine if an individual may be experiencing an opioid-related overdoes, look for the signs and symptoms which include:

A history of current narcotic or opioid use or fentanyl patches on skin or needle in the body.

Unresponsive or unconcious individuals. Not breathing or slow/shallow respirations.

Snoring or gurgling sounds. Blue lips. Pinpoint pupils and clammy skin.

If you believe you need to administor naloxone, first call 911 to get emergency responders on the way. Then use one of the two devices in a naloxone package and spray into one nostril of the individual. If minimal or no response, after 2 - 3 minues, repeat with the second device in the package to the other nostril.

You can find educational information about naloxone and referral to treatment options at stopodne.com.

Training is also available for those who want to be better equipped to help others. If you are interested in free training, contact Laura Osborne at 402-414-2460 or at FourCountyCollaborative@gmail.com

(KLZA)-- The Mound City Board of Education approved the new tax rates for the 2024-25 school year when they met last week. Approval followed a public hearing.

The tax rate will be $4.1783 per $100 of assessed valuation. 68.8 cents of that will go for capital improvement projects. The levy which increased 7-cents from last year, is anticipated to bring in $1,695,124 for the budget.

In other business the board approved the tuition rate of $3,500 per student.

rincipal Jake Shipman reported the school year started with 92 students in High School 54 of them involved in football, volleyball, cross country or cheerleading.

Superintendent Korey Miles reported the main gymnasium floor was to be delivered last wek and should be completely installed by Labor Day weekend with sanding and painting to follow.

Following a closed session, the Board approved hiring Lane Zembles as the head Cross Country Coach for both the High School and Junior High programs; Cindy Metcalf and James Jones as custodians and Tenille Costner as Cook

(KAIR)--Another successful Match Day for Atchison, with the fourth annual "All Aboard Atchison" fundraiser generating over $400,000.

Held this past weekend, including matching donations collected during a Friday evening in-person happy hour, the match day event wrapped up Sunday.

According to the Atchison Community Foundation's website Monday, $435,310, plus change, was collected during the weekend event, which saw donations to Atchison-area not-for-profit agencies and organizations matched at 60-percent.

The 2024 fundraiser topped last year's, which raised a total of $338,935 after matching funds were calculated.

(KAIR)--Three recent traffic stops in Jackson County leads to charges for six.

The first of the three stops came Thursday, August 22, shortly after 9:00 that morning, on U.S. Highway 75, near 174th Road.

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a probable cause search of the car followed, leading to the discovery of what's alleged to have been "illegal contraband inside the vehicle."

The driver, 21-year-old David Friend, of Holton, was arrested on charges for possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Two Sabetha residents face Jackson County drug-related charges following another traffic stop late last week.

Arrested were 66-year-old Timothy Krogman and 70-year-old William Stewart, both occupants in the pickup truck that Sheriff Tim Morse says was stopped around 8:30 Friday morning.

The Jackson County Sheriff, in a release, explains that during the stop, a probable cause search for illegal drugs was conducted, with that search leading to the pair's arrest.

Krogman was taken into custody on charges for possession of methamphetamine, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, trafficking contraband into correctional facility, and interference with law enforcement; conceal/alter/destroy evidence in felony case.

Stewart was arrested on charges for possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following their arrests, the two were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

A second traffic stop, this one made around 6:00 Saturday evening in southern Jackson County, led to the arrest of three women, including two from Mayetta.

Morse, in a release, says the pickup truck was stopped for a traffic infraction on U.S. Highway 75, near 118th Road, with 39-year-old Ashley Whitetail, and 41-year-old Annie Potts, both of Mayetta, arrested for interference with law enforcement and transporting an open container.

Also arrested was Berryton, Kansas resident Brenda Hinostroza, who was taken into custody on charges for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a depressant, possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal use of weapons, transporting an open container, and knowingly allowing an uninsured vehicle on the roadway.

Once the trio was in custody, they were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KLZA)-- An Oregon, Missouri woman is dead and two other people seriously injured in an early Sunday morning wreck on US-59 Highway about a half mile southeast of Oregon.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports that a northbound 2016 Chevy Malibu, crossed over the line and the front driver's side of the car struck the front drivers side of a southbound 2018 Ford Ecosport around 3:30.

The driver of the Ecosport, 57-year-old Angela Woods, of Oregon, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Malibu, 21-year-old Chelsey Guyer of Filmore, Missouri, was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, and then transported by Lifenet to theTruman Medical Center in Kansas City.

A passenger in the Guyer car, 18-year-old Peyton Ohnemus, from Oregon was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care.

According to the State Patrol report, Guyer was not wearing a safety device at the time of the crash. Ohnemus and Woods were wearing safety devices.

(KAIR)--A one-year-old child was seriously injured after a rollover crash on an Atchison County road early Sunday evening during a law enforcement pursuit.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 28-year-old Maria Papalas, of Atchison, was driving a Toyota Corolla southbound on Sherman Road, about five miles south of Atchison, at a high rate of speed attempting to elude law enforcement when she lost control of the vehicle on a curve shortly after 5:30.

The vehicle entered the west ditch and rolled multiple times before coming to rest on its top.

Papalas, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital with suspected minor injuries.

A passenger, one-year-old Mixalis Papalas-Schulpz, of Atchison, was transported to Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says he was properly restrained when the crash occurred.

Details surrounding what led to the pursuit were not immediately available.

(KNZA)--A Horton area man is facing charges in Doniphan County, accused of breaking into two vehicles and stealing multiple items.

34-year-old Andrew Davis was arrested August 19th by the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department on a Doniphan County warrant.

A criminal complaint filed in Doniphan County District Court charges Davis with two counts burglary and one count of felony theft.

He remains in the Doniphan County Jail, held on a $75,000 bond.

A preliminary hearing in the case is set for Tuesday

(KNZA)--The Horton City Commission has approved for publication a proposed 2025 budget that calls for net expenditures of $5.7 million and a nearly 7.4 mill levy decrease.

The Commission took the action when they meet August 19th.

The proposed budget contains an estimated tax rate of 48.6 mills, which is the revenue neutral rate.

The budget calls for the city to collect about $456,000 in local tax revenue. The city's assessed valuation increased $1.2 million to nearly $9.4 million.

The commission will consider adoption of the budget following a public hearing at their September 16 meeting.

(KAIR)--A one-year-old child died from injuries after a vehicle crashed on on an Atchison County road early Sunday evening during a police pursuit.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 28-year-old Maria Papalas, of Atchison, was driving a Toyota Corolla southbound on Sherman Road, about five miles south of Atchison, at a high rate of speed attempting to elude law enforcement when she lost control of the vehicle on a curve shortly after 5:30.

The vehicle entered the west ditch and rolled multiple times before coming to rest on its top.

Papalas, who was not wearing a seat belt, was transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital with suspected minor injuries.

A passenger, one-year-old Mixalis Papalas-Schulpz, of Atchison, was transported to Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, where he died.

The Patrol says he was properly restrained when the crash occurred.

Details surrounding what led to the pursuit were not immediately available.

(MSC News)--Flags are flying at half-staff across Kansas today as the state remembers and recognizes former 35th District State Representative Marvin Robinson. He died unexpectedly late last week at the age of 67.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has issued an Executive Order calling for all flags, located on all state buildings, grounds, and facilities, to be flown at half-staff until sundown on the date of Robinson- as-yet unannounced interment.

Robinson began serving in his capacity as District 35 State Representative just last year.

(KNZA)--A Holton man accused of intentionally setting a Topeka home on fire in January 2023 that killed his girlfriend and two children has pleaded no contest to charges in the case.

According to court documents, 33-year-old Kyle Tyler entered the no contest plea Thursday in Shawnee County District Court to one count of first-degree murder and two counts of aggravated arson, canceling a jury trial that had been set in the case.

In exchange for the plea, four additional counts were dismissed.

Firefighters found Tyler on the back deck of the home after responding to the fire early January 20, 2023. He was treated for smoke inhalation before being taken into custody for starting the fire.

30-year-old Genny Fitzpatrick, 9-year-old Peyton Tyler and 1-year-old Kourtney Tyler died from smoke inhalation.

Tyler is scheduled to be sentenced October 23.

(KLZA)--The special legislative session has indeed presented us with numerous challenges. However, I am delighted to report that we have made a positive step forward in our ongoing efforts to reform property taxes in Nebraska. During this special session, we passed LB 34, LB 2, and LB 3, which will provide new property tax relief.

This outcome is far from the transformative tax reform that many of us - including myself - hoped for, but it is half a step towards improvement from where we started. Governor Jim Pillen came into this special session with a proposal that would have imposed the largest tax increase in Nebraska's history. From that starting point, we could negotiate new caps on government spending and redirect existing funds to provide tax relief - all without raising taxes.

The fact that there are no tax increases is vital here as I am opposed to any new taxes, especially when it is just the government taking money out of one pocket to put it in the other and pretending it is doing something beneficial. As a fiscal conservative, I believe Nebraskans should keep more of their hard-earned money because, frankly, the government is not the most efficient steward of your resources - you are. One of the most controversial aspects of this proposal also included Governor Jim Pillen's initial proposal to take over local K-12 educational funding at the state level. Education funding makes up a substantial portion of Nebraskan's property tax bills.

While the idea of the state footing the bill might sound appealing, this plan did not have measures in place for it to be implemented effectively. Without a solid plan, we would have been left with a pipe dream that could have resulted in increased costs, school consolidations, and actual overall losses for Nebraskans, especially in our rural areas. I am grateful that the Legislature did not pursue this dangerous proposal. If the Governor or Legislature intends to pursue this in the future, it must be done with a much more careful and considered approach to ensure the security of our educational system and our taxpayers. Regarding the cuts and transfers in LB 2 and LB 3, these were overall victories. These bills cut state spending and redirected those funds to property tax relief. To me, this is important because at the heart of every tax crisis is a government spending crisis.

Nebraska has the 6th highest tax burden per capita in the nation - property, income, and sales tax combined. Until we seriously address government spending and cap its growth, we will continue to put band-aids on bullet wounds. While these bills do not go nearly far enough, they are steps in the right direction. Looking ahead, I remain optimistic. Some of the ideas proposed by various senators have helped lay the groundwork for further discussions in January. While I announced earlier this year that I will not seek re-election, I am committed to continuing to advocate for meaningful tax reform and relief during my remaining time in office. As always, I welcome your input on issues important to you. Follow along on my Facebook and Twitter pages, both entitled “Senator Julie Slama” for more updates, or contact me directly at Senator Julie Slama, District 1 State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln NE 68509-4604; telephone: 402-471-2733; e

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council heard various updates from City Clerk / Administrator Anthony Nussbaum when they met Monday evening.

A public hearing will be held in December concerning a $480 thousand Community Development Block Public Works grant application for a sewer rehabilitation project. The Southeast Nebraska Development District is currently drafting the application.

Nussbaum also reported that employees at the City Power Plant are taking part in an operator academy offering training for power plant employees. The 240 hour training program for power plant operators is conducted by Kansas Municipal Utilities. Management staff is completing the program first.

The Council approved the preliminary awards to five eligible applicants for Downtown Revitalization Grants recommended by the DTR Committee. The applicants are:

The Fresh lace at 1819 - 1821 Stone Street which is The Would Eye, a grant of $50,000.

Miller-Monroe, 1608 Stone Street a $30,000 grant; KawreS at 1515 Stone Street a grant of $25,920, Smiley Bee at 1715 Stone Street a grant of $17,7226 and Roland, a business at 1817 Harlan Street a grant of $18,750.

The total grant dollars will total nearly $142,400 with total project costs of more than $217,000.

The Council also approved hiring Midwest Engineering Inc. for design of the Phase III Downtown Revitalization Streetscape Improvement Project.

A proposal was approved for establishing a Parks and Recreation Director for the 2024-25 Fiscal Year. The position would absorb the role of the Aquatic Park Manager and would provide leadership and oversight for the Parks and Recreation Department including maintenance and upkeep of city parks, trails, recreation facilities and public open spaces.

Based upon experience it is anticipated the annual salary for the position will be from $55,286 to $69,035.

(KAIR)--Jefferson County property owners are receiving a two-page letter regarding the purchase of property, with a land purchase contract attached.

The authenticity of the letters is in question; and while it can't be said authoritatively whether or not they're a scam, Jefferson County leaders are warning the public to use caution.

The matter was brought to the attention of the Jefferson County Commission Monday by Register of Deeds, Delia Heston, who said the letters, complete with contract, have inundated the county.

While the legitimacy of the letters is investigated, Heston is working to alert the public to, as the unofficial minutes of Monday's meeting say, "be very cautious and diligent with anything they might be doing on the internet and that the public is welcome to call the [Register of Deeds] office" where they can inquire about the no-cost Property Fraud Alert service, available through the office.

(KNZA)--A Wathena man has been charged in connection with an alleged sex crime involving a teenage girl.

A criminal complaint was filed earlier this month in Doniphan County District Court charging 29-year-old Adrain Salazar-Chima with aggravated sexual battery and aggravated burglary of a vehicle.

He was arrested July 29th by the Doniphan County Sheriff's Department.

According to court documents, the alleged offenses involve a girl born in 2007.

Salazar-Chima remains in the Doniphan County Jail, held on a $100,000 bond.

A preliminary hearing in the case has been set for Tuesday.

(KAIR)--No injuries are reported following a Wednesday night residential fire in the Nortonville area.

According to Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, area fire departments, including Jefferson County, Valley Falls, Effingham, and Lancaster, joined the Nortonville Fire District in responding to the fire.

After arriving at 384 Greeley Road, shortly after 8:30, firefighters battled the blaze, clearing the scene more than three-hours after arriving.

The cause of the fire is not immediately known, with the State Fire Marshal's office assisting the investigation.

(KAIR)--A GoFundMe online fundraiser is put in place for an Everest area farmer who, in the words of the fundraiser description, lost "his barn, his tractor, all the hay he had for his cattle, and everything he needed to run his farm."

"He" is Merced Montes, who experienced those losses the evening of August 14, when his barn was "fully involved and a total loss" before firefighters could arrive, according to a social media post from the Everest Volunteer/Washington Township Fire Department, who was assisted by fire crews from Horton and Robinson. The post says crews on the scene that night "protected exposures and monitored the situation."

The GoFundMe, whose description reads, "waiting for insurance claims can be a long drawn out process" has a fundraising goal of $3,000 for Montes, with the description calling him "a loving husband, father, and grandfather who could really use some help right now."

(KLZA)--“We've Got The Spirit” is the theme for Cobblestone Festival 2024 in Falls City which begins Thursday evening and continues through Sunday.

The annual kickoff event is the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department Fishing Contest with the first cast at Stanton Lake at 5 p.m. The will be trophies and free ice cream for the contestants.

Friday events begin at 6:00 p.m. with food and sales vendors up and down Stone Street plus the carnival opens and the Partners in Educaiton Little Mr. and Miss Cobblestone crowning takes place. Later there will be a wrestling dual.

Sam's Amusements returns this year for a three-day run of rides and games. There will be $25 wrist bands available for purchase for Friday night, Saturday and Sunday afternoon.

The Cobblestone Parade will be Saturday at 11:00 a.m. and will proceed south on Harlan Street from 20th to 14th Street. Hank and Marcia Schwartz have been selected to serve as the Grand Marshalls of the parade.

The Jaycees Demolition Derby will begin Saturday night at 6:00 p.m. at the Jaycees Field south of Falls City.

The final day of the Cobblestone Festival will be on Sunday.

(KLZA)-The Nebraska Public Service Commissions 911 Service System Advisory Committee at their August 14 meeting recommended that Richardson County not connect to the 911 service system as a secondary communication center at this time.

Richardson County had requested the Richardson County Sheriff's Office be allowed to create a secondary Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls.

The Falls City Police Department is currently the Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls in Richardson County and relays the calls outside of Falls City to the Sheriff's Department.

The Committee encouraged the two entities to identify a resolution at the local level.

Falls City Police Chief Jamie Baker was asked to attend the 911 Service System Advisory Committee meeting and presented information to the City Council during their meeting Monday night. Baker noted the Commissioners said creating a secondary PSAP wasn't the direction the state is looking to go. They are more interested in combining PSAP's and shrinking down the number of them.

Hiring employees to do 911 dispatching was also an issuethat aCoimmittee member brought up, noting there is a shrinking pool of people to take the dispatch positions.

If a secondary PSAP was brought online, there would be no state funding, meaning taxpayer dollars would be required to pay for all of the costs associated with the secondary PSAP and it would be duplicating a system Richardson County already has.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty told MSC News that Richardson County which has invested large sums of money in equipment to be able to receive 911 calls is waiting for more information from the Public Service Commission and expects to revisit the issue in the future.

(KLZA)--During the August 14th meeting of the Nebraska Public Service Commissions 911 Service System Advisory Committee, which makes recommendations to the Public Service Commission on matters concerning the implemntation, coordination, operation, management and funding of the 911 Service System, the committee recommended that Richardson County not connect to the 911 service system as a secondaty communication center at this time.

Richardson County had requested the Richardson County Sheriff's Office be allowed to create a secondary Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls.

The Falls City Police Department is currently the Public Service Answering Point for 911 calls in Richardson County and relays the calls outside of Falls City to the Sheriff's Department.

The Committee encouraged the two entities to identify a resoltuion at the local level.

Falls City Police Chief Jamie Baker was asked to attend the Public Service Commission meeting and presented information to the City Council during their meeting Monday night. Baker noted the Commissioners said creating a secondary PSAP wasn't the direction the state is looking to go. They are more interested in combining PSAP's and shrinking down the number of them.

Hiring employees to do 911 dispatching was also an issue the PSC brought up, noting there is a shrinking pool of people to take the dispatch positions.

If a secondary PSAP was brought online, there would be no state funding, meaning taxpayer dollars would be required to pay for all of the costs associated with the secondary PSAP and it would be duplicating a system Richardson County already has.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty told MSC News that Richardson County which has invested large sums of money in equipment to be able to receive 911 calls is waiting for more information from the Public Service Commission and expects to revisit the issue in the future.

(KNZA)--Crews from multiple fire departments responded to a Brown County casino Wednesday night for the report of a large propane tank on fire.

The call came around 9:30 at the Sac and Fox Casino, located on U.S. 75 Highway, south of Fairview.

The Sabetha Fire Department said in a social media post " due to the very dangerous nature of the incident and size of the fire, a large response was assembled."

Besides Sabetha, responding were fire crews from Fairview, Powhattan, Kickapoo Tribe, Wetmore and Horton. Also responding were area law enforcement, Town and Country EMS and Squad 48.

The post said " firefighters from Sabetha assisted the other departments in controlling the fire so the gas could be shut off, at which point, the tank was cooled with water until the residual gas built up in the system could burn off."

There were no immediate reports of injuries or property damage resulting from the fire.

(KAIR)--A late Wednesday/early Thursday morning wreck on Atchison's George Street sent the driver, who allegedly struck a parked vehicle, to the hospital.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, it was shortly after midnight when a Jeep Liberty collided with a vehicle that had been parked in the 800 block of George Street.

The driver, 65-year-old Richard Harrell, of Atchison, was transported to Amberwell Atchison for treatment of injuries.

Wilson says Harrell was cited for driving too fast for conditions and driving with expired license.

(KAIR)--A Wednesday night disturbance involving two residents of an Atchison home, a 31-year-old man and a 16-year-boy, ended with the elder resident stabbed and the teen arrested in connection with the attack.

A release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson tells MSC News his officers were called to the 300 block of East P Street, following the report of the stabbing.

When they arrived, around 10:00 Wednesday night, police arrested the teenager for allegedly stabbing the man in the hand and arm with a knife. The victim was transported, by EMS, to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, Missouri, for the treatment of injuries.

The teen, arrested on a charge of aggravated battery, was transported to a juvenile detention facility.

The relationship between the pair is not immediately made public.

(KAIR)--Renovations are set to begin on the elevator at the Doniphan County Courthouse.

According to a release from Doniphan County, the work is set to begin Monday, August 26, leaving the elevator out of service for about four weeks.

During that time, those who need to visit the courthouse, but have difficulty navigating stairs, are told to contact the county office where they need assistance, so that arrangements can be made.

The conference room at the courthouse annex building, currently housing the Doniphan County Extension Offices, will be made available for in person meetings for those who need accessible services.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has approved for publication a preliminary 2025 budget of nearly $14.5 million that contains a 7.4 mill levy increase but plan to continue to look for ways to reduce the levy before the budget is finalized.

The proposed budget, which was approved for publication Monday, contains an estimated tax rate of 42.6 mills.

The Commission had originally been looking at a 8.3 mill levy increase before they started making cuts.

Commissioner Bill Pollock reviewed a list of proposed budget cuts he had come up with at the meeting.

Commission Chairman Rich Lehmkuhl said he didn't know where they will end up at yet.

The Commission will consider adoption of a budget following a public hearing at their September 3 meeting. A second hearing will also be held on the Commission's intent to exceed the revenue neutral tax rate, which is 34.553 mills.

The proposed budget can be viewed on the Brown County website.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph, Missouri woman has been charged in connection with a wrong-way crash in May that claimed the life of a motorcyclist.

KQ2-TV reports a felony complaint was filed Tuesday in Buchanan County Circuit Court charging 47-year-old Katherine Deweese with 1st-degree involuntary manslaughter in the death of 33-year-old Ryan Coffman, of St. Joseph.

St. Joseph Police say Coffman was exiting off Interstate-229 at the Edmond Street exit during the early morning hours of May 17th when his motorcycle was struck head-on by a SUV driven by Deweese, who was driving the wrong way on the exit ramp.

Coffman was ejected from his motorcycle.

He was transported to Mosaic Life Care, where he died from his injuries.

(KAIR)--Summer days, now dwindling, are often spent outdoors, in the sun; and while such activities are a sign of the season, forgetting to use sunscreen, or other such protection, increases the risk for skin cancer. In fact, the Skin Cancer Foundation says there are two key causes of skin cancer: harmful, ultraviolet rays from the sun, and the use of UV tanning beds.

The foundation's statistics show that one out of five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70; however, the good news, according to the foundation, is that if skin cancer is caught early, high odds exist of eliminating it entirely.

A unique opportunity to be checked for skin cancer is planned for next month by Amberwell Atchison.

According to a release from the hospital, free skin cancer screenings will be provided Friday, September 20, at Amberwell. The screenings, which will be available at no cost to participants, will be provided in the hospital's suite 107, from 2 until 5:00 that afternoon.

Although appointments are not needed, screenings will be provided on a first come, first served basis.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members had two items on their Monday night agenda concerning buildings in the downtown area.

First was a request from the Kiekhaever family, owners of the three-story Gehling Theatre Building that houses True Value Hardware at 1519 Stone Street to consider a donation of the building to the city.

Paul Kiekhaefer addressed the Council, noting the upper two floors were built for a theatre but have not been utilized in that capacity for around 80 years. He said the are having a hard time keeping the rood structure of the building in good shape and asked if the city would accept a donation of the building.

A study of the building revealed the cost to repair the building including a new roof and new supports for the upper floors would likely be a million dollars or more.

Council member Joe Buckminster said he appreciated the offer, but asked if the city were to put a million dollars in tax dollars into the building to bring it up to standards, then what, noting the city is not in the business of rehabing houses or businesses.

The Council took no action on accepting the building.

Discussion on the purchase of the Rivoli Theatre building at 1810 Stone Street in an amount of $25 thousand was moved into executive session with no action taken on the agenda item following the closed session.

The Council did approve the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department burning down a nuisance house at 923 East 12th Street in conjunction with the Vacant Property Ordinance which would allow firefighters to train during the fire and save the city money on cost of demolishing the house.

(KLZA)-- The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting offers for more than 2.2 million acres from agricultural producers and private landowners through this year- Grassland, General, and Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) signups administered by USDA- Farm Service Agency (FSA). With these accepted acres, enrollment is very near the 27 million CRP acreage cap.

Including the nearly 1.44 million acres recently accepted in Grassland CRP for offers received in 2024, producers will have enrolled more than 10 million acres in this popular working-lands program.

Grassland CRP allows producers and landowners to continue grazing and haying practices while protecting grasslands and further CRP- impacts. Grassland CRP leverages working lands practices to improve biodiversity and conserve environmentally sensitive land.

Top states for this year- Grassland CRP signup include:, Nebraska with 237,853 acres accepted. FSA also has accepted nearly 200,000 acres through the General signup, bringing total acres enrolled in General CRP to 7.9 million acres. As one of the largest private lands conservation programs in the United States, CRP offers a range of conservation options to farmers, ranchers and landowners. It has been an especially strong opportunity for farmers with less productive or marginal cropland, helping them re-establish valuable land cover to help improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and support wildlife habitat.   

Producers can still make an offer to participate in CRP through the Continuous CRP signup, which is ongoing, by contacting FSA at their local USDA Service Center.    

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

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said the Sheriff's Office and Holton Police Department served the search warrant at 206 Ohio Avenue Monday morning as the result of a drug investigation.

Officers seized illegal drug substances and contraband from the residence.

Morse said arrested were 61-year-old Scott Suitter and 60-year-old Lisa Guffey.

The pair were booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

(KAIR)--The planned expansion and renovation of an Elwood-based manufacturing facility means the creation of new jobs.

Word of forthcoming Elanco Animal Health Inc. expansion was made Tuesday in a release from Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

The release explains that Elanco, a global leader in animal health, is investing $130 million for the facility overhaul, which is expected to create around 70 new jobs over the next two years.

The expansion project will help enhance the local economy through increased tax revenue and serve as a stable long-term employer in Elwood, making the company, the release says, "better positioned to optimally serve customer demands with improved project development and commercialization lead times."

Elanco- Elwood site currently manufactures and ships its Canine Parvovirus Monoclonal Antibody-the first and only USDA conditionally approved targeted treatment for parvovirus-and will be the flagship location for the company's antibody manufacturing, with the release noting that the expansion "will add the needed capacity to support Elanco- growth in monoclonal antibody innovation."

Design-build firm Burns & McDonnell, headquartered in Kansas City, is leading the expansion project as the primary provider of integrated design and construction services.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph, Missouri man drowned over the weekend trying to resuce a child at Smithville Lake in Clay County, Missouri.

According to a report from the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 66-year-old David Moore was loading children onto a boat Saturday afternoon, when one child started to drift away.

Moore dove into the water to get the child, but never resurfaced.

(KNZA)-Three separate drug crime-related search warrants served at Horton homes led to the arrest of five Horton residents on related charges.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, says all three warrants were served Saturday by his office's Drug Task Force, assisted by the Horton Police Department, with the first two raids occurring late that afternoon.

One of those two warrants, executed at 150 W. 13th Street led to the arrest of 33-year-old Daniel Chatman, who was taken into custody for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Another warrant was executed at 315 W. 12th Street, where Cameron Mayer and Raechel Juber, were apprehended, with Mayer facing charges for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, while Juber faces charges for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

The third warrant, Merchant says, was executed Saturday evening at 133 W. 13th Street, where both 44-year-old Gerald Evans and 63-year-old Carolyn Sigmon were arrested on charges for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Following the arrests, all five were booked into the Brown County Jail.

(KLZA)-- The USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service reports Nebraska's farm real estate value increased in the past year.

The average farm real estate value for 2024 was $4,080 per acre, a $260 per acre or 7 percent increase from 2023.

Cropland value increased 6 percent to $6,540 per acre. Dryland cropland values averaged $4,350 per acre, a $350 per acre increase while irrigated cropland values went to $530 per acre to $8,550 per acre.

Pastureland was $1,400 per acre, up $100 per acre.

Cash rent for dryland cropland averaged $169 per acre, up $5 per acre from 2023 wth irrigated cropland rent averaging $281 per acre, $4 higher than the previous year.

(KLZA)-- The U.S. Department of Transportation- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded $18 million to 24 airports across the state. The grant funds are part of a nationwide initiative to enhance airfield safety and infrastructure.

Nebraska's airports are part of a broader vision, with the FAA distributing over $123 million in grants to 235 airports in 35 states and the District of Columbia. These grants underline a national commitment to promoting safety, efficiency, environmental stewardship, infrastructure, and security across America's airports.

Among the Nebraska airports to receive grant funds were:

Brenner Field in Falls City, $135,000 to Rehabilitate the Apron, Runway, Taxilane and Taxiway.

Farington Field in Auburn, $215,000 to design a hangar.

Beatrice Municipal Airport, $4,810,000 to reconstruct the apron and taxiway.

The Nebraska City Municipal Airport, $365,573 to construct a fuel farm.

(KLZA)-- Unemployment figures were mostly higher in Southeast Nebraska during the month of July.

Nemaha County was the only area county to have a dip in unemployment from June, dropping from 4.1% to 3.9 percent for July.

Otoe County was steady at 3.2%.

The rest of the area had higher jobless rates in July than in June.

In Richardson County unemployment was up 2-tenths of a percent to 3.9 percent.

In Pawnee County unemployment in July was 3.3 percent, up from 2.5% a month earlier.

Johnson County had a jobless figure of 4.2 percent up 7-tenths.

Gage County had the largest increase in unemployment, nearly doubling from 3.3% in June to 6.4 percent in July.

Statewide the jobless rate in Nebraska increased a tenth of a percent to 2.6 percent in July, ranking 5th in the nation. South Dakota continues to have the best unemployment rate in the country at 2 percent. Vermont is second at 2.1 percent.

In the region, Iowa is tied for 8th at 2.9 percent. Kansas ranked 15th in the nation at 3.2 percent and Missouri was 28th with a 3.8 percent unemployment rate.

(KLZA)-- There is an opening on the Pawnee City Board of Education.

In a letter dated July 14, Lisa Hunzeker resigned from the Pawnee City School Board after being appointed as the Pawnee and Johnson County Clerk Magistrate.

With the new job, she will no longer be able to serve on the School Board.

The School Board officially accepted “with regret” Hunzekers resignation during their August 12 meeting.

Hunzekers term on the Board was to have expired January, 7, 2027.

Qualified registered voters in the Pawnee City School District who are interested in being appointed to the board to fill the vacancy should submit a letter of interest to the Superintendent's office.

(KNZA)--A Topeka man is jailed in Jackson County, accused of the possession of child pornography.

38-year-old Thomas Hett is charged in Jackson County District Court with 10 counts of sexual exploitation of child under 18 years age, allegedly occurring between May 17th and July 12 of this year.

He was arrested July 31st by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office on a District Court warrant.

The charges were filed following an investigation by the Sheriff's Office, with assistance of the Hiawatha Police Department.

Hett remains held in the Jackson County Jail on a $50,000 bond.

A preliminary examination status hearing in the case is set for Thursday.

(KMZA)--Nemaha Central USD 115 is proposing a 2024-25 budget that calls for net expenditures of nearly $16.3 million and a nearly 1.2 mill levy increase.

The USD 115 Board of Education approved the budget for publication last week.

It contains an estimated tax rate of 59.499 mills, which is expected to generate $6.2 million in property tax revenue.

Taxpayers in the former USD 442 portion of the district also have an additional 6 mill levy for bonds issued for the construction of the elementary/middle school.

The board will consider adoption of the budget following a public hearing at their September 9th meeting. A second public hearing will also be held on the intent to exceed the revenue neutral tax rate.

Also at the meeting, Eric Stallbaumer with AHRS Construction updated the board on the progress of the bond construction project.

The deadline for phase 1 to be completed by the start of school was meet, with the exception of the high school locker room renovation. The delay was due to several factors, but Tucker Peddicord with Lighthouse Construction reassured the board that the locker rooms are to be completed by the end of the month.

Phase II, renovation of the high school, has begun and the project is ahead of schedule.

In addition, the board was told that SBS Insurance is increasing the USD 115 property value to be insured by $15 million to account for the new facilities. That will increase the district's total premium by $42,206 for 2024-25. The Board approved the increase of insurance coverage.

(KLZA)-- Two Brownville Village Board members are facing a recall election this fall. It will be added to the the general election ballot for Brownville residents on November 5 as part of the general election.

According to the Nemaha County Herald report, Shane Sailors was the primary circulator of the recall petition against Board Chairman Martin Hayes and Vice Chairman Colleen Volkmer. While Volkmer has been on the Board for just over six months. Hayes has been on the Brownville Village Board for 47 years.

The reasons for the recall effort were listed as “failure to listen and act upon citizen's concerns,” “failure to manage taxpayer's money responsibly,” “failure to allow access to town hall and village clerk and excessive payments for legal representation.”

(MSC News)--The new standard Kansas license plate design will soon be seen, with the Kansas Department of Revenue, on Monday, saying the new "To the Stars" design is now available.

That word was delivered in a release, which sends the reminder that the new plates will replace the current ones with the "Ad Astra" design.

The new design, which features the Kansas Statehouse Dome within a cutout of the state set against a blue, white, and yellow gradient background, was overwhelmingly chosen by Kansans in a December 2023 public vote, winning 53% of the total vote.

The release explains that the new design will be used for all issued new plates, including replacements for any remaining embossed plates. Kansans who were issued a plate with the “Ad Astra” design as the replacement for their embossed plate will not be reissued another plate with the new design. However, any Kansan who has the “Ad Astra” design but wants the “To the Stars” design can visit their local county treasurer's office to transfer their registration to a plate with the new design.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners met Wednesday.

Commissioners voted to access the 1% additional budget authority for Fiscal Year 2024-25 as allowed by state statute.

The Board also approved advertising for sale, a county parcel of 1.35 acres, a tower site near Barada on September 11.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported that approximately 90 percent of the landowners who were sent brush complaint notices due to non-compliance of the requirements for maintaining roadside brush are coming into compliance.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported receiving a report from Nebraska Crime Stoppers regarding agriculture implements on county road right-of-way causing hazardous conditions for traffic who utilize the roadway, located near the intersection of 657 Avenue and 709 Road which is a location north and west of Rulo.

Commissioners will be traveling to the site to review the situaiotn and report back to the sheriff.

The Board also approved an agreement with Pritchard and Abbott to provide professional appraisal services for oil and gas mineral interest for tax years 2025 and 2026.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Board of Education met August 12.

The new school year was projected to start with 268 students.

The Board approved a proposal from Dana F. Cole & Company to conducted the school district's independent audit for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024 with an estimate the services will not exceed $16,600 plus additional expenses estiamted at $970.

The Board also voted to renew the elementary, secondary and staff handbooks for the new school year with changes that were presented.

A number of Policy Committee recommendations were also approved during the meeting.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City School Board met August 12. School will begin with an enrollment of 817 students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. That is a decrease of five students from the 2023-24 start to the school year.

The largest class is 1st Grade with 70 students and the smallest classes are Kindergarten, 6th and 7th grades with 51 students each.

There will be 15 new staff members beginning the new school year.

Susan Johnson, Director of Sixpence and the Child Care Parternship provided the annual Continuous Quality Improvement reports for both prgrams. Sixpence is the program dedicated to providing high-quality early childhood services, and the Child Care Parternship focuses on building effective collaborations and supporting child care providers.

The annual reports for both are now available at the FCPS Sixpence and CCP websites for public review.

During the meeting the Board approved the UNL Extension Assistant Funding commitment of $9,716 which amounts to 12% of the salary.

The Annual Planning Workshop is scheduled for September 25 at 6:00 p.m.

(KLZA)-- A large crowd gathered for a town hall meeting last Thursday evening at the Humboldt City Auditorium to hear details and offer ideas on how to help keep Colonial Acres Nursing Home in Humboldt in operation.

The city-owned facility opened in 1969 following voters passing a bond electon to fund the $398,000 to construct the facility.

Currently, the city contracts with Rural Health Development, of Lincoln, to manage the facility with includes up to 45 beds for nursing home patients and up to 18 assisted living patrons.

Two major stumbling blocks have put Colonial Acres in a critical financial situation. The first being the Covid Pandemic and the more recent issue was Legionella Disease in the buildings water system.

At the present time there are 29 residents in the nursing home. Since October 1, 2023 to June 30, of this year, the facility has lost just under $100,000. $85,000 of the total is attributed to depreciation. In all, Colonial Acres owes nearly $300,000 in payables. Of that total, nearly $162,000 is owed to Rural Health Development for management fees.

The facility pays $13,000 per month for management, with a portion of that money used by the company to pay for the facility administrator salary and benefits. However, Rural Health Development has not been paid by the nursing home since July, 2023.

Colonial acres Administrator Betsy Packet said the payroll for the approximately 73 employees at Colonial Acres amounts to right at $180,000 monthly. She notes that keeping the employees paid and the residents care are high priorities along with being responsible for the money the residents pay.

Packet also noted that Colonial Acres is unique in the large number of residents who are private payers.

The number of private pay residents actually costs the facility some in funds from Medicaid. With only 37% of the residents baeing on Medicaid, the reimbursment is less that if the number was even 40% Medicaid pay. Packet noted that Colonial Acres tries to be selective in who is admitted, serving the local community first rather than fill the facility with residents from further away and then not having room for locals.

Matt Ross with Rural Health Development said fewer residents currently and increased expenses is creating a financial crunch for Colonial Acres at the present time.

Ross explained that Rural Health Development manages mostly small rural nursing homes and has been in business since 1990. All of their clients are non-profit. He said it is difficult for stand-alone facilities to have all of the expertise they need. RHD provides the facility administrator, has nurse consultants, business office consultants, a regional manager and puts business plans together to help manage the facilities in small communities.

Employee Retention Credits, which could be worth up to $1 million for the Humboldt facility, were discussed at length during the meeting. Ross explained ERC is a credit that is available for employee wages, based on certain quarters for 2020 and 2021. It takes into account the number of employees, what their wages were, and then the IRS provides a credit based on those wages.

Too many fraudulent applications were submitted from facilities across the country, leading the IRS to shut down the program, causing facilities such as Colonial Acres to be caught up in the stoppage of payments on the claims. Recently, the IRS has reopened the program and is doing some reviews of applications, throwing out fraudulent claims and approvaing legitimate claims. Ross says hopefull, Colonial Acres claim will be approved, sooner rather than later.

When and if those funds will be approved and released is unknown at this time.

The large crowd was able to ask questions and offer suggestions during the meeting. Among the ideas discussed was looking into an additional city sales tax to support the facility and creating an adult daycare program to bring in additional funds.

Humboldt area farmer Ben Steffen suggested that perhaps persons from the area could help raise some funds to help keep the facility running at this point. He noted it appears the financial situation is not an operation problem but hopefully a temporary cash flow issue. Steffin is hopeful that some area people will be able to find a way to come up with some funds to help with the situation.

Steffen called last weeks meeting a great demonstration of support for Colonial Acres and shows that people of the area understand the value of the facility.

Since the town hall meeting, a working group has been formed with Steffen as Chairman, and is developing clear financial support goals and plans for how the community can participate in helping ensure Colonial Acres continues to move forward on solid footing.

The committee will meet again next week, hoping to bring more specific plans to the community after gathering more information.

The Humboldt Area Community Foundation Fund, working within the Nebraska Community Foundation, will be an important conduit for donations. While a formal campaign is being developed, anyone who wish to write a check now, to support this citizen effort to get the nursing home in Humboldt, are encouraged to make a targeted donation via the Humboldt Area Community Foundation Fund in the name of this specific effort. For information on the Foundation, contact Mark Novak, 402-770-8029.

The Humboldt City Council is to meet Tuesday evening and one of their agenda items is approving support for fundraising efforts to assist with the operations of Colonial Acres.

Mayor Jan Wilhelm noted at the conclusion of last weeks town hall meeting that another such meeting will be planed to update area residents of the progress being made.

(KAIR)--Two Atchison men, both accused in separate cases dating back to Friday and Sunday, are facing charges of aggravated battery, with both cases requiring hospital care for the victims.

The first case happened Friday, with Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, saying officers, around 9:40 that morning, were called to a residence in the 1000 block of Kansas Avenue.

When they arrived, police encountered the 59-year-old victim, who told police she had been pushed down a stairway. She was transported for treatment, by Atchison County EMS, at Amberwell Atchison.

The victim, according to Wilson, identified her assailant as 37-year-old Bryan R. Harris, who was arrested Friday on charges of aggravated battery and domestic battery.

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

The second case unfolded early Sunday morning when police were called, around 2:00, to a residence in the 1200 block of North 8th Street.

Investigators located a 44-year-old man at the residence who told police he had been struck in the face by 43-year-old Christopher Ricklefs, who had left the scene of the alleged attack.

The victim was transported to Amberwell Atchison, by Atchison County EMS, for the treatment of his injuries.

According to Wilson, it wasn't long before officers located Ricklefs, who was taken into custody for aggravated battery.

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

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County STEP Foundation will hold its 4th annual match day on Friday.

The Step Foundation says the purpose of match day is to help area nonprofits raise monies for their funds.

32 funds will be eligible for a dollar-to-dollar match up to $4,000 per fund.

This year, a grant through the Patterson Family Foundation is making up to $70,0000 in matching funds available.

You can donate in-person Friday from 10 to 6 at the Seneca Free Library. In addition, you can donate on-line by going to stepupnemaha. com

You can also go to the website for information on the participating funds and to view a leader board that will keep track of the funds.

(KNZA)---The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education has approved for publication a proposed 2024-25 budget that calls for net expenditures of $11.7 million and a 1.9 mill levy decrease.

The Board took the action during their regular meeting last week after Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Kramer went over the proposed budget.

It contains an estimated tax rate of 55.029 mills, which is expected to generate nearly $2.5 million in property tax revenue.

The board will consider adoption of the budget following a hearing at their September 9th meeting.

(KMZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education has approved for publication a proposed 2024-25 budget that calls for nearly $17 million in net expenditures and a mill levy increase.

The board took the action when they met Monday evening.

Superintendent Todd Evans said USD 113 is expecting to exceed revenue neutral for the supplemental general fund for the upcoming year, which is connected to the district's decrease in state aid.

He said the estimated mill rate for the former USD 441 area of the district is 48.664 and the estimated mill rate for the former USD 448 portion is 42.806. Evans said the difference is the former 441 portion of the district is still paying off a bond issue.

Under the proposed budget, those in the former USD 441 area will see a nearly 4.3 mill levy increase, while those in the former USD 448 portion will see a 3.7 mill levy increase.

The board will consider adoption of the budget following a hearing at their September 9th meeting.

(KNZA)--A Friday afternoon rollover crash in Doniphan County sent an Olathe teenager to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-7 Highway, just north of 195th Road, shortly after 1:30.

According to the KHP report, 19-year-old Joshua Fowler was southbound when his SUV traveled off the roadway onto the west shoulder.

Fowler over corrected, causing him to lose control of vehicle. His vehicle entered the ditch sideways and rolled over multiple times, coming to rest on its wheels.

Fowler was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, for examination after complaining of pain.

The Patrol says he was wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred.

(KAIR)--A Kansas Department of Transportation mill and overlay project is underway on Highway K-7, with a release from KDOT saying the 33-mile project spans from the northern city limit of Atchison to the Nebraska state line in Doniphan County.

Traffic will be restricted to one lane in the active work area and directed by a pilot car and flaggers. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes.

An 11-foot width restriction will also be in place.

Work will occur Monday through Friday during daylight hours and is expected to be complete in early November.

Bettis Asphalt & Construction Inc., of Topeka, is the $5.6 million project- contractor.

(MSC News)--The State of Missouri, like its neighbor Kansas, is expanding Dolly Parton's Imagination Library statewide.

According to a release, Missouri Governor Mike Parson and First Lady Teresa Parson will host a celebration event, complete with an appearance from Dolly Parton, on Tuesday, August 27, in Kansas City, Missouri. The ceremony comes in partnership with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Parton visits states for a celebration event once all children ages 0-5 are eligible for the statewide Imagination Library program. Missouri is the 14th state to commit to a statewide program, but no other state has been fully funded, with all Missouri children under age five eligible on the first day of the statewide program.

The statewide expansion was made possible through legislation spearheaded by then State Senator Karla Eslinger and signed into law by Governor Parson in 2022. In conjunction with the Governor, the Missouri Legislature fully funded the program by approving $11 million in DESE- Fiscal Year 2024 and 2025 budgets for the distribution of books.

All Missouri children under five years old are eligible to register for Dolly Parton- Imagination Library. There is no deadline to register. The Imagination Library is dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by providing age-appropriate books each month to children free of charge. To receive books, a parent or guardian must register their child on the Imagination Library national website. Books will be mailed directly to the homes of registered children every month, until their fifth birthday.

Kansas became a state partner for the Imagination Library in 2023.

(KAIR)--An investigation is underway into the reported destruction of an elderly Effingham man's garden.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, whoever's responsible took 10 each watermelon, cantaloupes, and honeydew melons from the garden. The produce was found smashed in various areas near the garden.

Along with the melon damage, tomato and beet plants were also pulled from the garden belonging to the 88-year-old man.

According to Laurie, possible suspects have been identified as the investigation remains ongoing.

The crime was reported August 9.

(KNZA)--Two Holton residents were arrested Thursday afternoon for the alleged distribution of methamphetamine following the execution of a search warrant in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said in a release that Sheriff's deputies served the search warrant at a residence located at 22321 Q Road, south of Holton.

39-year-old Duncan Benedict and 32-year-old Jade Graf were arrested on charges of distribution of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia and interference with law enforcement.

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

(KNZA)--Proposals are being sought for the operation of the Doniphan County transfer station.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, Northeast Kansas Environmental Services Specialist Martha Smith met with the Doniphan County Commission Monday to discuss a request for proposals.

Waste Management, who currently operates the transfer station, has notified the county that they intend to end their contractual agreement on October 31st.

Smith reviewed with commissioners recommended revisions to the request for proposals made by County Attorney Charles Baskins.

Following review, it was agreed Smith would make the changes recommended by Baskins and then submit for bid to interested parties.

Continuation of the county's recycling program will be an addendum to the request for proposals. Waste Management will also be contacted to see if they are interested in submitting a bid to continue the recycling program.

Bids will be due in the Doniphan County Clerk's Office by 5 pm on September 6th, with bid letting to be held Monday, September 9th.

(KMZA)--Severe storms moved through northeast Kansas Wednesday night - spawning at least one tornado.

The National Weather Service says the twister touched down in far northwestern Pottawatomie County just before 7:30 in a field north/northeast of Olsburg.

There were no reports of injury or damage.

Meteorologist Matt Flanagan says the same storm system also prompted tornado warnings for southwestern Marshall and southeastern Washington counties.

Thousands of people lost power late Wednesday night and into early Thursday morning as severe thunderstorms rolled through the area.

Utility company Evergy says outages from the severe storms peaked at about 37,000 customers without power throughout its service area.

As of 4:00 Thursday afternoon, about 4,500 customers remained without power.

The Topeka, Wichita, Newton and Leavenworth areas saw the greatest number of power outages.

(KNZA)--Two individuals were arrested following a Kansas Highway Patrol pursuit in Jackson County late Thursday morning.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said shortly after 11:30 a KHP trooper attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a Chevy Impala on K-16 Highway near the K-79 Highway junction. The vehicle allegedly failed to stop and a pursuit ensued.

The vehicle eventually stopped on L. Road, south of K-16 Highway.

Morse said Jackson County deputies assisted with taking the occupants of the vehicle into custody. The driver was arrested on traffic and drug charges, while the passenger was arrested on a Junction City warrant.

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

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board has approved for publication a proposed 2024-25 budget that contains a 1.3 mill levy increase.

The board took the action Monday evening after Superintendent Lonnie Moser reviewed the proposed budget and settling on a capital outlay levy.

As part of his presentation, Moser recommended a 6 mill levy, which is where its historically been set.

The levy was lowered to 4.1 mills last year in an effort to give residential property owners some relief.

Board member Ian Schuetz said he wasn't in favor of jumping to six mills in one year and proposed a five mill levy instead.

Other board members shared their desire to complete maintenance projects around the district and thought the levy should be higher than five mills.

Board member Griff Howard suggested splitting the difference and going with a 5.5 mill levy. A motion by Howard to published the proposed budget with the change was approved a 4-3 vote. Board members Ian Schuetz, Brooklyn Schuetz and Mitch Brown cast the dissenting votes.

With the change, the total estimated tax rate will be 48.6 mills. Due to a $6.5 million dollar increase in the district's assessed valuation, Moser said a mill will raise about $152,000.

The board will consider adoption of the budget following a public hearing at their September 9th meeting. Prior to the budget hearing, a second hearing will be held to exceed the revenue neutral tax rate.

(KLZA)-- Early Childhood Professionals and Economic Development of Nebraska's First Legislative Distrcit have invited District 1 State Legislative candidates Robert Halstrom and Dennis Schaardt to speak at a candidates forum on Thursday, August 22 at 1713 J. Street in Auburn.

Both candidates have been invited to speak on the early childhood issues in the communities in the First Legislative District.

The candidate forum is free and open to the public and will begin at 6:30 p.m.

You are asked to RSVP at dist1childcareprofessionals@gmail.com.

(KAIR)--Kansas State Cornhusking is set to return to Atchison County, with an October competition date now on the calendar.

According to a release, the contest will include team competition, with all age groups welcome, to take part in the hand cornhusking event.

It will be held October 13, on the Matthias Family Farm, located at 1173 Hamilton Road, in Lancaster.

Registration will be held throughout that Sunday, with age groups able to start as early as 8:00 that morning.

Along with the cornhusking competition, kids activities will be featured, as well as homemade concessions, and prizes.

All visitors, including spectators, are invited to the October 13 cornhusking contest.

(KAIR)--An elderly Missouri man escaped life-threatening injuries, despite his car being struck by a train early Thursday morning in Atchison County.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the car, driven by 75-year-old Eugene Kane, of Hazelwood, Missouri, was struck by the Union Pacific train at the railroad crossing located on 286th Road, west of McPherson Road, around 5:10 Thursday morning.

The release says investigators believe Kane had accidentally stopped his car on the railroad tracks, where the vehicle was stopped when the train rolled through and struck it.

Kane, the release says, was transported to Amberwell Atchison for the treatment of non life-threatening injuries.

(KAIR)--A three-vehicle crash in Atchison Wednesday afternoon sent two people to the hospital.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, it happened in the 14-hundred block of Main Street around 4:00.

Wilson said a car driven by 19-year-old Tabius Ballman, of Everest, was westbound when it struck a pickup truck and then struck a SUV, both of which were parked on the north side of the street.

Ballman and his 20-year-old female passenger were transported by ambulance to Atchison's Amberwell Health for examination.

Ballman was cited for speeding and no proof of insurance.

(KMZA)--Nemaha Central USD 115 is requesting to re-enter into negotiations with Prairie Hills USD 113 for the transfer of land in the Bern area.

The USD 113 Board of Education Monday evening discussed a July 19th letter received from the USD 115 Board of Education submitting a revised map to re-enter into negotiations with the district.

The letter from USD 115 Board president Amy Sudbeck says the map is based on “where the out-of-district students live” and “ landowner preferences.” The letter says all the evidence to support the map has previously been presented to the USD 113 board.

While the Kansas State Board of Education voted in June to deny USD 115's petition for the transfer of about 81 square miles of land from USD 113 to USD 115, they encouraged the two districts to try to resolve the issue at a local level.

USD 113 Superintendent Todd Evans said his board agreed Monday to send a written response to USD 115.

Evans said the USD 115 letter and map has been posted on the district's website, and the USD 113 response will eventually be posted as well. It can be found here

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission was urged Monday to approve a resolution opposing a proposed five-mile wide electric transmission line corridor that would run through several northeast Kansas counties--including Brown.

Beth Salmans and Angel Cushing with the Western Region Property Rights Coalition met with the Commission to present information on the National Interest Electric Transmission Corridor.

In May, the U.S. Department of Energy unveiled a list of 10 potential corridors--a designation that would allow the federal government to expedite the development of electric grid expansion projects in those areas.

One of the proposed corridors would run through a portion of northeast Kansas--including locally Marshall, Nemaha, Brown and Doniphan Counties--along the same route as the Grain Belt Express line, which was approved in 2011 by the Kansas Corporation Commission.

Salmans said the proposal would allow the federal government to take land through eminent domain, which would have a devastating impact on the agriculture community and result in a loss of property tax revenue.

Commission Chairman Rich Lehmkuhl and Commissioner Bill Pollock voiced support for having a resolution drafted in opposition to the transmission line corridor proposal. The resolution would be brought back for Commission approval.

(KAIR)--A major Atchison traffic route is set to close Thursday.

That word is delivered in a release from the City of Atchison, which says the 14th Street Viaduct will be closed for the entire day, and possibly part of Friday.

The reason for the work is ongoing fiber line installations.

According to the City, the viaduct will remain open for the Thursday morning commute, closing at 8:30, "to minimize impacts to school/work commutes."

The 14th Street Viaduct will remain closed until the work is complete, expected by late Thursday or early Friday morning.

Editors note: the following notice was submitted by the Doniphan Co Clerk's Office.

Due to a programming error, school district information on the mid-section of the Doniphan County 2024 Revenue Neutral Rate Notices (notices of estimated taxes) taxpayers are receiving in the mail is incorrect. However, the valuation portion and hearing information on the lower section of the form is correct. Where no hearing date, time and location is stated, the taxing entity, including the school district, does not intend to increase their tax rate above the 2023 rate. Please contact the Doniphan County Clerk- Office with any questions or concerns 785-985-3513.

(KLZA)--Students across Nebraska are returning to school this month and the Drug Enforcement Administration, Omaha Division is reminding families to make time for conversations about the unintended consequences of drug experimentation before kids head out the door for a new year of learning.

Fentanyl and methamphetamine remain the top two drugs seized by DEA investigators in Nebraska. Mexican cartels, continue to press pills designed to look like common prescription medications such as Xanax ®, Adderall ® and Oxycodone ®. These fake pills so closely resemble legitimate prescription medications that it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between a fentanyl pill and a pharmaceutical. DEA laboratory testing indicates that seven out of every 10 fake pills seized by the DEA contain a lethal dose, two milligrams, of fentanyl. The only safe medication is one prescribed specifically to you by a trusted medical professional and dispensed by a licensed pharmacist.

Methamphetamine is not commonly found at the grade school level, although DEA seizures of the stimulant have been trending upward in Nebraska for five years. Members of law enforcement have seen methamphetamine in crystal, powder and pill form.

Vaping and marijuana use among youth remain topics of concern. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, among adolescents aged 12-17 who used marijuana in the past year, more than half vaped marijuana, followed by about one-third who ate or drank marijuana. Families are encouraged to talk about the harmful side effects of vaping while also addressing the consequences of ingesting marijuana edibles.

For more information on how to talk about the dangers of drugs, visit www.JustThinkTwice.gov or www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.gov.

(KAIR)--It's called a prestigious honor that has now been bestowed on an Atchison-based school.

Named as the 2024 Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann CEF School of Excellence is St. Benedict Catholic School.

According to a release, the honor is awarded annually by the CEF, or Catholic Education Foundation, to a K-8 Catholic School, in northeast Kansas, receiving support from its traditional scholarship program. The release explains that each school is evaluated based on five main criteria: Joyfully Catholic, Diligently Achieving, Intentionally Self-Giving, Prudently Managed, and Forwardly Thinking.

The award has been presented for 20-years.

St. Benedict Principal Kevin Lunsford, in the release, calls receipt of the award "a testament to [St. Benedict's] dedicated staff and collective efforts to nurture not just the minds, but the hearts and souls of our students, guiding them to become compassionate leaders who embody the values of our Catholic faith in every aspect of their lives."

In addition to bragging rights and additional funding from CEF, St. Benedict will be recognized at Gaudeamus, CEF- annual benefit gala, on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at the Overland Park Convention Center. Gaudeamus, which is Latin for “let us rejoice”, is CEF- annual fundraiser, and proceeds from the celebration support scholarships for students in need.

The Catholic Education Foundation, the release notes, was founded in 1997, and has, since then, "transformed the lives of children and families by providing access to an exceptional K-12 Catholic education at schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas," with the release noting that CEF is providing $5 million in scholarships to support nearly 2,000 students at Catholic schools throughout northeast Kansas for the 2024-2025 school year.

(KLZA)--The city of Humboldt will hold a town hall meeting Thursday evening, August 15.

The meeting will take place at 7:00 at the City Auditorium in Humboldt.

The city says the topic of discussion will be the current status of Colonial Acres Nursing Home and its financial state.

Humboldt area residents are urged to attend the meeting, ask questions and give their feedback.

(KNZA)--A new Hiawatha public works director has been named.

Following an executive session Monday evening, the Hiawatha City Commission approved the appointment of longtime city employee Dominic Grier to the position.

Grier assumes the new role after serving as Wastewater Supervisor.

He will replace Brad Scott, who has hired as city administrator in June after serving as interim administrator since April.

The position of public works director was created in March of last year.

In other business, April Schwartz with Varney and Associates presented the city's 2023 audit report.

The city received a " clean" opinion on the audit, which is the highest level of assurance that can be given on a set of financial statements.

The Commission voted to accept the audit report.

(KNZA)--A Jackson County traffic stop led to the arrest of a Valley Falls man on meth-related charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy stopped a vehicle shortly after 10:00 last Friday morning for a traffic infraction near 134th Road and U.S. 75 Highway.

Morse said a police service K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal substances in the vehicle. Drug contraband was allegedly located inside the vehicle.

37-year-old Brandon Wynkoop was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

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

The Kansas Highway Patrol assisted.

(MSC News)--The next design for personalized Kansas license plates has been decided.

That's according to a release from the Kansas Department of Revenue Monday, which says that of the five designs in the running, one has been selected.

The choice for the new plate, affecting personalized plates only, was decided by public vote, with KDOR saying more than 30,000 votes were cast online.

Selected by those who voted their decision is the plate design showcasing the iconic Flint Hills.

That design, the release says, received over 56% of the votes cast.

Once the new plates are available, with that date not immediately known, Kansans can visit their local county treasurer- office to purchase the new plate for $45.50.

The “Powering the Future” personalized plate design will no longer be available after Jan. 1, 2025. Kansans, who currently have this design, must replace their plate during their next renewal period to keep their personalized plate text.

(KLZA)--The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced changes to the Farm Service Agency- (FSA) Farm Loan Programs, effective Sept. 25, 2024 — changes that are intended to increase opportunities for farmers and ranchers to be financially viable.

The improvements, part of the Enhancing Program Access and Delivery for Farm Loans rule, demonstrate USDA- commitment to improving farm profitability through farm loans designed to provide important financing options used by producers to cover operating expenses and purchase land and equipment.

Farm loan policy changes outlined in the Enhancing Program Access and Delivery for Farm Loans rule, are designed to better assist borrowers to make strategic investments in the enhancement or expansion of their agricultural operations.

The program establishes a new low-interest installment set-aside program for financially distressed borrowers.

Provides all eligible loan applicants access to flexible repayment terms that can increase profitability and help build working capital reserves and savings, and reduces additional loan security requirements to enable borrowers to leverage equity.

USDA encourages producers to reach out to their local FSA farm loan staff to ensure they fully understand the wide range of loan and servicing options available to assist with starting, expanding, or maintaining their agricultural operation. To conduct business with FSA, please contact your local USDA Service Center.

(KLZA)--The Richardson County Sheriff's Department will be participating in the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign that runs Friday, August 16 through Labor Day weekend.

The U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration will work alongside the Sheriff's Office during the high visibility enforcement campaign, with a goal to deter impaired driving and prevent the tragedies seen in previous Labor Day weekends from happening again.

In 2022, during the Labor Day holiday there were 490 crash fatalities nationwide. 39% of those involved a drunk driver and 25% involved drivers who were driving with a blood alcohol contest almost twice the legal limit.

The Sheriff's Department wants those driving in Richardson County to know, that it is they're first priority to keep people safe.

If you plan to drink during the Labor Day holiday, be sure to secure a designated driver or call for a sober ride home.

When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive by taking away the keys and helping them get a sober ride home.

Anyone spotting a drunk driver, should contact the Richardson County Sheriff's Office.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for the Perry Place Mobile Home Park located in the City of Perry in Jefferson County.

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

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

(KNZA)--A Havensville woman was arrested early Sunday morning in Jackson County following a stolen vehicle report.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said Sheriff's deputies responded around 6:30 to the 300 block of 222nd Road in reference to the report.

Morse said deputies located a vehicle matching the description of the stolen vehicle parked in a driveway in the 2600 block of K-16 Highway in western Jackson County.

He said deputies found a woman slumped over the wheel and observed what they believe was illegal drug contraband inside the vehicle.

The occupant of the vehicle, 38-year-old Leianne Jones, was arrested for possession of fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, trafficking contraband into a correctional facility, felony theft, driving under the influence, driving while habitual and driving while revoked.

Following her arrest, Jones was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KNZA)--A January jury trial has been set in Jackson County for a Meriden man faces charges of rape and aggravated sexual battery.

According to court documents, 49-year-old Chad Tyler pleaded not guilty Friday in Jackson County District Court to the felony offenses.

A jury trial for set for January 15-17, 2025.

Tyler is charged in connection with an alleged sexual assault that took place in January of this year in southern Jackson County.

He was charged following an investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

Tyler remains free on a $100,000 OR bond.

(KMZA)--The city of Seneca has been proclaimed as a Purple Heart City.

Mayor Joe Mitchell read a proclamation at the Seneca City Council's August 7th meeting making the declaration, which the Council approved.

Local resident Marcia Philbrick with the Nemaha County Historical Society sought the declaration in honor of local recipients of the Purple Heart medal Philbrick said her research identified about 300 Purple Heart recipients in the county. After finding no existing list, she utilized memorials and historical newspaper issues to compile one.

The Purple Heart medal is presented to U.S. military service members who have been wounded or killed by enemy fire. It was originally awarded by George Washington in 1782 to recognize meritorious service in combat. It is the nation's oldest and one of the most distinguished military awards.

Philbrick says the next step will be apply to get the city of Seneca listed on the Purple Heart Trail. Established in 1992 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart, the trail aims to create a symbolic and honorary system of roads, highways, bridges and monuments that pay tribute to Purple Heart recipients.

(KNZA)--A rear-end crash in Buchanan County, Missouri Saturday afternoon sent a St. Joseph woman to the hospital.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 169 highway, about three miles south of St. Joseph, shortly after 3:15.

According to the Patrol report, a southbound car driven by 66-year-old Laurie Brown slowed to make a right turn and was struck in the back by a southbound pickup truck. Brown's car traveled off the roadway and struck a sign.

She was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, with suspected moderate injuries.

The driver of the pickup, 69-year-old Mark Richardson, of Holt, Missouri, was not hurt.

The Patrol says both drivers were wearing seat belts when the crash occurred.

(KNZA)--Two individuals were arrested on drug charges following two separate Brown County traffic stops.

According to a report from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, 53-year-old Paul Babcock, of St. Joseph, Missouri, was arrested Saturday, August 3rd after a Sheriff's deputy made a traffic stop on U.S. 75 Highway near 220th Road.

Babcock was arrested on charges of possession of a stimulant and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following his arrest, he was booked into the Brown County Jail but is no longer listed as an inmate.

Merchant said 35-year-old Drew Reeves, of Hiawatha, was arrested Tuesday, August 6th after a Brown County deputy made a traffic stop in Hiawatha.

Reeves was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The Hiawatha Police Department assisted.

Following his arrest, Reeves was booked into the Brown County Jail but is no longer listed as an inmate.

(KLZA)--With the end of summer fast approaching, one last holiday to celebrate with family and friends is approaching.

The Falls City Police Department reminds everyone that drunk driving is deadly, illegal behavior putting the driver, their passengers and everyone else using the roadway at risk.

When enjoying the celebration, if you feel impaired by any substance, don't get behind the wheel of any vehicle.

The Falls City Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies throughout the state in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign between August 16 and September 2. The goal of the campaign is to reduce fatal and serious alcohol and impaired driving related injury crashes in Nebraska and provide safer travel for all.

During the enforcement period, officers will work overtime, conducting saturation patrols, concentrating on taking drunk / impaired drivers off the streets. The overtime campaign effort will be funded through a grant provided by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, Highway Safety Office.

Remember, Drive Safely, report unsafe driving behaviors, use designated drivers, and please, buckle up, every trip, every time.

(KNZA)--The elevator at the Morrill Public Library in Hiawatha is to be replaced.

Work is expected to begin on Monday, Aug. 12 and last for an estimated four weeks.

Joey May, Community & Youth Service Librarian, said that during construction time any items for pick-up will be available at the downstairs Children's Library circulation desk. This includes any books that come from other libraries through the Inter-Library Loan service of the Northeast Kansas Library System.

"Please let us know if you have items you want to check out or need assistance and we will be happy to help you," May said.

Contact the library at 785-742-3831 or email morrill@hiawathalibrary.org with any questions or requests of assistance.

(KLZA)--The Nemaha County Nebraska Fair will begin Sunday, August 11 in Auburn. Events actually begin on Saturday the 10th with the 4-H Shooting Sports Archery contest at 9 a.m.

The horse show will be Sunday morning in the horse arena on the north side of the fairgrounds, following check-in which begins at 8 a.m. All the other livestock events will be in the livestock arena.

All 4-, FFA and open class livestock must be checked in and in place by 9 p.m. Sunday evneing.

Monday August 12: events include: exhibiting of the unified sheep, dairy meat and pygmy goats, sheep and rabbits in the morning.

Horse, dairy and livestock judging contests will be during the afternoon.

The Nemaha County Fair Parade will begin at 6 p.m. Monday evening.

Tuesday - Aug. 13: The Bucket Calf show will begin at 8 a.m. followed by the Beef Show. The 4-H Poultry Show will begin at 2 p.m. 6 p.m. Tuesday evening is the rain date for the parade. The FFA Ag Olympics will be Tuesday evening at 6:45 with the Little Tugger tractor pull Tuesday night at 7 p.m.

Wednesday - August 14: 8 a-m - 4-H Swine Show; 11 a.m. BB Gun contest at Rotary Lake; 3 p.m Herdsmanship judging contest and the presentaion of the McInnich Judging trophy. 4 p.m. - 4-H Clover Kid Pet Show; 5 p.m. - Livestock buyers meal. 6 p.m. 4-H / FFA Livestock premium sale at the livestock arena.

This years free grandstand shows will be at 8 p.m. Monday and Tuesday.

Monday the 12th will be Live Dueling Pianos and Tuesday eveing the 13th will be Eric Reamer, magician, mentalist, bald guy.

Sam's Amusements will be open Monday through Wednesday evenings from 6 - 10 p.m.

(KLZA)--With the end of summer fast approaching, one last holiday to celebrate with family and friends is approaching.

The The Falls City Police Department reminds everyone that drunk driving is deadly, illegal behavior putting the driver, their passengers and everyone else using the roadway at risk.

When enjoying the celebration, if you feel impaired by any substance, don't get behind the wheel of any vehicle.

The Falls City Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies throughout the state in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign between August 16 and September 2. The goal of the campaign is to reduce fatal and serious alcohol and impaired driving related injury crashes in Nebraska and provide safer travel for all.

During the enforcement period, officers will work overtime, conducting saturation patrols, concentrating on taking drunk / impaired drivers off the streets. The overtime campaign effort will be funded through a grant provided by the Nebraska Department of Transportation, Highway Safety Office.

Remember, Drive Safely, report unsafe driving behaviors, use designated drivers, and please, buckle up, every trip, every time.

(KNZA)--A semi truck driver was injured Thursday morning in a Jefferson County crash, southeast of Meriden.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on Clark Road, just south of 62nd Street, shortly after 9:30.

According to the KHP report, 56-year-old Scott Younkin, of Lawrence, was southbound when an unknown vehicle that was traveling northbound failed to move over. Younkin moved over to the right and dropped into the west ditch, where his rig overturned onto its side.

He was transported to a Topeka hospital with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says Younkin was wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred

(KNZA)--St. Joseph, Missouri City Manager Bryan Carter has announced his resignation, effective September 6.

The announcement was made in a release from the city Wednesday.

Carter has served in the City Manager role since January 2021, when he was initially named Interim City Manager. He previously served in the city- legal department beginning in 2011.

As City Manager, the release says Carter has worked closely with city staff, the City Council, and community leaders to position St. Joseph for growth and redevelopment

Carter noted that leaving the City Manager role was a difficult decision, but one that will enable him to pursue other personal and career objectives

The release says the City Council will appoint an interim city manager upon Carter- departure and begin the search for a replacement immediately.

(KNZA)--A rural Horton man, accused of attacking another man in June 2023 with a walking stick, has pleaded not guilty to charges.

Joseph Ross entered the plea Monday in Brown County District Court to charges of aggravated assault, criminal threat and battery.

A pre-trial hearing in the case has been set for October 7th, with a jury trial date to be determined at that time.

Ross was arrested in June of last year following an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office focused on criminal activity on and/or near the Kickapoo Reservation.

He remains free on a $50,000 OR bond.

(KAIR)--Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, on Thursday, filed a lawsuit in federal court to stop the Biden-Harris administration from giving Obamacare to those in the United States illegally.

According to a release from Kobach's office, the final plan, set to take effect November 1, would make more than 200,000 deferred action for childhood arrival recipients eligible for taxpayer-subsidized health plans, including 4,350 DACA recipients in Kansas.

According to the complaint, the proposed regulation violates a federal law that prohibits giving public benefits to illegal aliens. It also violates the plain text of the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, itself.

Kobach is joined in the lawsuit by attorneys general from 14 other states, including Missouri and Nebraska.

(KNZA)--A Horton man convicted of charges in connection with a July 2023 Brown County wreck that left four others injured has been sentenced to 3 years and five months in prison.

Timothy Pahmahmie was sentenced Monday in Brown County District Court on two counts of aggravated battery and one count of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

According to court documents, he was credited for 269 days served in jail.

Pahmahmie pleaded no contest to the charges in July. In exchange for the plea, four additional counts were dismissed.

The charges stem from a two-vehicle wreck early July 4, 2023 at the intersection of 100th and Kingfisher Roads, about one mile west of U.S. 159 Highway.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says Pahmahmie was traveling on 100th Road when his pickup truck crashed into the driver's side of a SUV driven by Brandon Wingender, of Everest.

Wingender and a passenger in his vehicle, Brenda Middleton, of Horton, suffered suspected serious injuries in the wreck.

Pahmahmie and two passengers in his vehicle, Roberta Hanchor, of Nevada, and Adrain Darnell, of Horton, were also injured.

(KLZA)-- The body of a missing Auburn, Nebraska has been recovered.

The Nemaha County, Nebraska Sheriff's Department says the remains of 43-year-old Alexander Mayfield were discovered inside a vehicle recovered Wednesday morning from the Missouri River, just south of the Brownville boat dock.

The Sheriff's Office says an investigation led deputies to the area, where with specialized assistance from the Missouri Highway Patrol and Nebraska Game and Parks Commission the vehicle was recovered.

Mayfield had missing since July 31st.

An autopsy has been ordered. However, the Sheriff's Office says foul play does not appear to be involved.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Police Department joined with hundreds of other Departments across the country Tuesday evening to sponsor a National Night Out event.

Free swimming at the Falls City Aquatic Park and free hotdogs and brats served by officers of the Falls City Police Department were part of the draw.

Police Chief Jaime Baker said the community relations event is a good chance for the officers to have an open dialog with community residents.

There were a number of displays to view for those attending. The Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad and Falls City Volunteer Fire Department attended. The Nebraska Department of Transportation brought their roll-over simulator, The Operation Lifesaver program was on hand and had the Burlington Northern interactive display trailer on hand.

In addition, the Nebraska State Patrol was able to bring a helicopter for everyone to view to the event.

Tom Hillyard with Operation Life Saver, a highway rail safety program dedicated saving lives and keeping people safe around railroad tracks. Hillyard has worked with that program for nearly 20 years teaching area youth and adults about safety at rail crossings.

Hillyard explained that with harvest coming before long and school starting it is vital that people pay attention when coming to rail crossings, noting that it takes a train traveling at 55 miles-per-hour about a mile to come to a stop.

The motto is “If you see tracks, think train.”

The annual National Night Out is now in it's 41st year and spans across 400 communities in 23 states allowing people an opportunity to meet local law enforcement members and other first responders.

(KAIR)--Work has begun on a Doniphan County bridge replacement project.

A release from the Kansas Department of Transportation says the work is underway on the Mill Creek Bridge, on K-7 Highway, about 3 1/2 miles south of White Cloud.

According to the release, Denmark Road has been closed at K-7 and is expected to reopen by late September. Other traffic impacts should be minimal through the end of this year, with most project activity taking place along the roadway- shoulder.

Work will occur Monday through Friday during daylight hours and is expected to be complete by August 2025, conditions permitting.

A.M. Cohron & Son, Inc., of Atlantic, Iowa, is the $3.6 million project- prime contractor.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has started work on a bridge replacement project on K-7 Highway in Doniphan County. The Mill Creek bridge is is located about 3.5 miles south of White Cloud.

Denmark Road has been closed at K-7 and is expected to reopen by late September. Other traffic impacts should be minimal through the end of this year, with most project activity taking place along the roadway's shoulder.

Work will occur Monday through Friday during daylight hours and is expected to be complete by August 2025, conditions permitting.

A.M. Cohron & Son, Inc., of Atlantic, Iowa, is the contractor on the $3.6 million project.

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

(KLZA)-- Falls City Council members voted unanimously to amend a city code to set time limits for the exhibition of fireworks when they met Monday evening.

Under the amended city code, fireworks will be allowed to be set off between 10 a.m and 11 p.m. between June 27 and July 6, except for July 3rd thru 5th when the hours will be 10 a-m to midnight.

There will be no changes concerning the retail sale of fireworks. They may be sold between June 24 and July 5.

In other business the Council learned during City Administrator Anthony Nussbaums report that an application for a $1 million grant for infrastructure was not successful.

Following a public hearing, the Council unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Isaac Knight to sell firearms and ammunition at 2404 Harlan Street in Falls City.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee County EMS is hosting a Luau party Saturday night, August 10 at the Pawnee City Fire Hall.

Money raised from the event will be used to help pay for equipment for the organizations two new ambulances. The doors will open at 4:30 with the a silent auction taking place from 5 - 7 p.m. Luau games including the Luau Liquor Launch, the grass skirt and coconut game will be going on between 5 and 6:30 p.m. The roasted pork dinner will be served from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. with the live auction starting at 8 p.m.

Two new ambulances have been purchased by the Pawnee City EMS with $370 thousand raised to pay for them. Funds raised this weekend will help pay for equipment to stock the ambulances and upgrades including an auto load cot and AED's which carry a price take of around $85 thousand.

Tickets are $20 in advance and cover the cost of the meal and two drinks. Tickets are available at the Bank of Steinauer which you can call at 402-869-2211. Tickets at the door at $25.

Among the live auction items are four Husker football sky box tickets and a parking pass donated by Pawnee City native Dan Whitney who you may know as “Larry the Cable Guy.” There is also a mini-split H-VAC system including installation, Husker volleyball tickets and an autographed Husker volleyball; a 3-night hotel stay in Florida and a quarter beef.

Local merchants have also been generous with their donations for the fundraiser.

Following the auction, live music will be provided by the “All Niders Band.”

(KLZA)-- Holt County voters cast 705 votes for Tiger Parsons in the race for Holt County Sheriff on the Republican ticket Tuesday compared to 299 for incumbent Steve Portman.

In Mound City, voters approved issuance of up to $2,750,000 in general obligation bonds for extending and improving streets in the community 188 - 90.

In a four-person race for Atchison County Sheriff on the Republican ticket, Andy Riley was the winner with 590 votes. Matthew Heits collected 519 votes, Devon Sons 372 and Tyson Gibbons 94.

Sheriff Dennis Martin did not seek reelection.

Sam Graves from Tarkio was dominant in winning the Republican primary races for the District 6 seat in the U.S. House or Representatives as he seeks a 13th term in Congress. Graves received 78.1% of the votes cast in the primary. He will face Democrat Pam May in the General Election in November.

The Missouri race for Governor to replace Mike Parson will find Democrat Crystal Quade facing Republican Mike Kehoe. Kehoe received 39.4% of the votes cast in the Republican primary. Bill Eigel was second with 32.6% of the votes cast.

(KLZA)-- Holt County voters cast 705 votes for Tiger Parsons in the race for Holt County Sheriff on the Republican ticket Tuesday compared to 299 for incumbent Steve Portman.

In Mound City, voters approved issuance of up to $2,750,000 in general obligation bonds for extending and improving streets in the community 188 - 90.

In a four-person race for Atchison County Sheriff on the Republican ticket, Andy Riley was the winner with 590 votes. Matthew Heits collected 519 votes, Devon Sons 372 and Tyson Gibbons 94.

Sheriff Dennis Martin did not seek reelection.

Sam Graves from Tarkio was dominant in winning the Republican primary races for the District 6 seat in the U.S. House or Representatives as he seeks a 13th term in Congress. Graves received 78.1% of the votes cast in the primary. He will face Democrat Pam May in the General Election in November.

The Missouri race for Governor to replace Mike Parson will find Democrat Crystal Quade facing Republican Mike Kehoe. Kehoe received 39.4% of the votes cast in the Republican primary. Bill Eigel was second with 32.6% of the votes cast.

(KNZA)--A late Tuesday evening Atchison County motorcycle crash claimed the life of Oskaloosa man.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash happened on U.S. 159 Highway, about one mile north of Muscotah, shortly before 10:00.

According to the KHP report, 65-year-old Antone Artman was southbound when for an unknown reason he lost control of his Yamaha motorcycle and drove into the west ditch. Artman, who was not wearing a helmet, was thrown from the motorcycle.

He was transported to a Topeka hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

(MSC News)--Voters went to the polls Tuesday to decide which candidates advance to the November general election ballot for local races and a special question in Doniphan County.

In the race for the 1st District Kansas Senate seat, Craig Bowser won the Republican primary. Bowser, of Holton, took the top spot in the three way race, earning 41-percent of the votes cast, with challenger Dr. John Eplee, of Atchison, earning 37-percent of the votes. Incumbent Dennis Pyle took third place in the contest, receiving 23-percent of the votes cast. No Democrats filed to seek the seat.

Republican Primary voters made their choice for Representative in the Kansas House's 62nd District, with 40-percent of the votes cast in favor of Sean Willcott, of Holton. He defeated Dylan Keim, of Seneca, who earned 36-percent of the votes cast. Sabetha's Dorothy Goodman trailed in the race, earning 24-percent of the total votes. Incumbent Randy Garber, of Sabetha, did not seek reelection, withdrawing his candidacy after having initially filed to seek another term.

For other national and state offices, as they're tabulated by the KS Secretary of State's Office, go here.

Atchison County voters, in Tuesday's Republican primary election, selected incumbent Jack Laurie to retain his position as Atchison County Sheriff.
The decision was close, with Laurie defeating challenger Adam Potts by only 67 votes, 1,091 to 1,024.

It was a different story in Doniphan County, where longtime Sheriff Chad Clary was defeated in the Republican Primary, with voters instead selecting current Undersheriff Mark Allen to fill that position. Allen won the primary by a vote of 1,058 to 486.

Doniphan County voters also approved the renewal of the countywide one percent retailers sales tax for an additional five-year period by a vote of 990 to 567.

In Brown County, Lucas Heinen won the Republican primary race for 2nd District County Commissioner over incumbent Lamar Shoemaker by a vote of 366 to 176.

In Jackson County, Linda Gerhardt won the Republican primary race for 2nd District County Commissioner over Matthew Devader by a vote of 378 to 289. Gerhardt will now face incumbent Dan Brenner, an Independent, in the November general election.

Incumbent 3rd District County Commissioner Keith Kelly won the Republican primary race over challenger Thomas Hoffman by a vote of 424 to 255.

Bethany Lee won the Republican primary race for County Attorney over Jeffrey Morrow, who currently holds the position, by a vote of 1,828 to 304.

In Nemaha County, incumbent 2nd District County Commissioner Jason Koch won the Republican primary race over two challengers. Koch received 374 votes, with Lane Hanzlicek receiving 217 votes and Austin Petry, 206 votes. Koch will now face Democrat Angela Harkins in the November general election.

Joseph Dalinghaus won the Republican primary race for 3rd District County Commissioner over Sarah Feldkamp by a vote of 473 to 265. The position is currently held by Dylan Keim who didn't seek re-election.

In Marshall County, incumbent Sheriff Timothy Ackerman won the Republican primary race over challenger James Leis with 58 percent of the vote.

Greg Meyer won a three-way Republican primary race for 2nd District County Commissioner, defeating incumbent Fritz Blaske and Clayton “ Moby” Dick.

Austin Cline won the Republican primary race for 3rd District County Commissioner over incumbent Keith Bramhall with 56 percent of the vote.

Mike Vermetten won the Republican primary race for Marshall County Magistrate Judge over incumbent Angela Hecke with nearly 68 percent of the vote.

(KLZA)-- A potentially dangerous situation had a happy ending Tuesday morning near Table Rock in Pawnee County.

An approximately 2 -1/2 year old child walked into a nearby cornfield and could not be found initially.

Swift action by numerous area first responders allowed for a quick recovery and a happy ending, when the child was found, with no injuries.

The Pawnee County Sheriff's Office and the Johnson / Pawnee County Emergency Management Agency thanked the neighbors that helped with the search and the area departments that responded which included the Table Rock, Pawnee City and Humboldt Fire Departments; The Pawnee , Richardson and Johnson County Sheriff's Departments, Pawnee County Ambulance, Richardson County Emergency Management Agency.

The accompanying picture was taken by Dennis Schaardt with the Table Rock Volunteer Fire Department.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported to the County Commissioners during their meeting July 31 that he has received notification from the Nebraska Commission on Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice that the Richardson County Law Enforcement Center has met the requirements to remain accredited under the Commissioners program.

Sheriff Hardesty also reported that a Sheriff's Department officer currently attending the Law Enforcement Academy will be graduating August 16 and that active shooter drills are being planned. The Sheriff also discussed an idea of creating an outside yard for inmates to utilize for a few hours each day.

Noxious Weed Control Superintendent Brian Kirkendall reported that areas in Richardson County with CRP acres who don't comply with the regulations for controlling noxious weeds by the deadline will be receiving notices of non-compliance. He also said he is planning to control the sericea lespedeza on the County owned right-of-way on 660 Avenue south of Rulo.

Commissioners voted to authorize Clerk of the District Court, Pam Scott to sign the Grant Award with the State of Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services for the Child Support Enforcement in Richardson County for the period of October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2029 in an amount of $50,737.

(MSC News)--Flags will fly at half-staff across Kansas, Friday, as the state remembers the life of a fallen firefighter.

The release, announcing the flag directive given by Governor Laura Kelly, says Wichita Firefighter Ty Voth died in the line of duty on August 1.

According to Kelly, flags will fly half-staff from sunup to sundown Friday in honor of Voth, who Kelly, in the release, commends for "his dedication and selflessness," while sending condolences to his family, colleagues, and others affected by his loss.

KAKE reports that Voth, a five-year Wichita Fire Department employee, died battling a Haysville house fire.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Sheriff's Office and Holton Police Department will hold its 4th annual National Night Out event Wednesday evening, August 7th.

The event will take place from 5:30 to 8:00 on the east side of the Jackson County Courthouse, in Holton.

A free meal of hot dogs, brats, chips, cookies and drinks will be served.

Public safety agencies from Jackson County and the state of Kansas will have equipment on display.

There will be a drone presentation, a law enforcement K-9 presentation and an investigations presentation.

The event will also feature music, giveaways and prizes.

The National Night Out program helps build neighborhood unity and strengthen police-community partnerships.

(MSC News)--It's a different type of vote being offered to Kansas residents this election season, with the State of Kansas, Monday, announcing that voting is now open for the next Kansas personalized license plate design.

According to a release from the Kansas Department of Revenue, votes can be cast online, now through Friday evening at 5:00, here. By going to that link, Kansans are able to select their favorite design of those featured on the website.

The release explains that the vote is different than the one held last year for standard state plates. Instead, this vote is to determine which design will replace the current "Powering the Future" design currently used on state, personalized plates.

Votes can be cast for a preferred design multiple times, prior to the Friday cutoff. The winning design will be announced Monday.

According to the release, shortly after voting concludes, the winning design will enter production and be available for purchase in 2025.

(KNZA)--A rural Horton man, convicted of severely beating another man on the Kickapoo Reservation in January, has been sentenced to 8 years and 4 months in prison.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said 35-year-old Ryan Shopteese was sentenced Monday in Brown County District Court on a charge of aggravated battery.

Shopteese pleaded no contest to the charge in June.

During the sentencing hearing Monday, Hill said Shopteese and his attorney requested a sentence of 48 months in prison. He said the state countered that due to Shopteese's criminal history and the bodily harm suffered by the victim that resulted in facial fractures, he was deserving of a sentence of 100 months in prison. In the end, Hill said District Judge John Weingart agreed with the State.

Once released from prison, Shopteese will be subject to 3 years of post-release supervision.

(KLZA)-- The Nemaha County, Nebraska Sheriff's Depatment is seeking the public's help in locating 43-year-old Alexander Mayfield.

Mayfield, described as a white male, 5-foot tall weighing 235 pounds with black hair and blue eyes. Mayfield is missing a finger.

He is believed to be traveling in a blue, 2009 Jeep Patriot with Nebraska license plate 44 D 478.

Alexander was last seen on Wednesday, July 31, and at that time was headed west on Highway 136.

If you have any information you are asked to contact the Nemaha County, Nebraska Sheriff's Office at 402-274-3139 or Nebraska Missing Persons at 1-877-441-5687.

(KLZA)-- Water customers of the City of Humboldt are no longer under a boil water advisory. The boil order was lifted this past Saturday when water tests came back with an all-clear label.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners were presented with the Fiscal Year 2024-25 preliminary budget document by budget-making authority and County Clerk Mary Eickhoff when they met last week.

The preliminary budget which includes the amounts submitted by each department for the next year totaled $20,944,000. The actual budget for the current fiscal year is $20,322,000.

However, the preliminary tax requirement to fund the budget would be $7,645,000, an increase of $1,786,000 from this years $5,859,000.

At this point, the final county valuation has not been confirmed.

Commissioners will be holding hearings with all department officials to review their budget requests.

(KLZA)-- Tuesday, August 6 is Primary Election Day in Missouri.

Among the contested races in Holt County include incumbent Steve Portman and Tiger Parsons running for Sheriff on the Republican ticket.

Mound City voters will vote yes or no on issuing $2,750,000 in general obligation bonds for extending and improving streets in the community.

In Atchison County, Missouri, Four are running to replace Sheriff Dennis Martin. Tyson Gibbons, Devon Sons, Matthew Heits and Andy Riley all seek the Republican nomination.

Regionally, on the Republican ticket Incumbent Sam Graves is seeking another term at US Representative in District 6. He is challenged in the primary by Freddie Griffin Jr. Brandon Kleinmeyer and Weldon Wray Woodward.

Seeking the District 1 State Representative seat are Jeff Farnan and Michelle Horner.

Statewide, There are 9 Republicans and 5 Democrats seeking the position of Governor with Mike Parson being term limited and unable to run for another term.

The polls in Missouri are open Tuesday from 6 a.m. - 7 p.m.

(KNZA)--A McLouth man was injured Sunday afternoon in a 4-vehicle crash in Douglas County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 24 Highway, north of U.S. 40 Highway, just before 3:30.

According to the Patrol report, a semi truck was slowing down on the highway to turn into a private drive. 49-year-old Joseph Hill, of McLouth, was slowing down behind the semi when a pickup truck driven by 19-year-old Oskaloosa resident Chase Peck, which the Patrol says was following too close, struck the rear of Hill's cargo van. That caused Hill's van to strike the rear of the semi. A car then struck the rear of the Peck's pickup.

Hill was transported to a Topeka hospital with suspected serious injuries. None of the other three drivers were injured.

The Patrol says all four occupants were wearing seat belts when the crash occurred.

(KNZA)--Voters will go to the polls Tuesday, August 6th to decide which candidates for local races advance to the November general election ballot. There will be a number of contested races in the Republican primary.

In Atchison County, incumbent Sheriff Jack Laurie is being challenged by Adams Potts.

In Brown County, incumbent 2nd District County Commissioner Lamar Shoemaker is being challenged by Lucas Heinen.

In Doniphan County, Sheriff Chad Clary is being challenged in his bid for re-election by fellow Republican Mark Allen, who currently serves as undersheriff.

In Jackson County, there are contested races in the Republican primary for 2nd District county commissioner, 3rd District county commissioner and county attorney.

Matthew Devader and Linda Gerhardt are vying for 2nd District County Commissioner. The winner will face incumbent Dan Brenner, an Independent, in November.

Incumbent 3rd District County Commissioner Keith Kelly is being challenged by Thomas Hoffman.

Incumbent County Attorney Jeffery Morrow is being challenged by Bethany Lee.

In Marshall County, Sheriff Tim Ackerman is being challeged in his bid for re-election by James Leis.

Incumbent Magistrate Judge Angela Hecke is being challenged by Mike Vermetten.

Incumbent 2nd District County Commissioner Fritz Blaske is being challenged by Clayton " Moby" Dick and Greg Meyer.

Incumbent 3rd District County Commissioner Keith Bramhall is being challenged by Austin Cline.

In Nemaha County, 2nd District County Commissioner Jason Koch is being challenged by Lane Hanzlicek and Austin Petry. The winner will face Democrat Angela Harkins in November.

Joseph Dalinghaus and Sarah Feldkamp are vying for 3rd District County Commissioner. The position is currently held by Dylan Keim, who didn't seek re-election.

In local state races, 1st District State Senator Dennis Pyle is being challenged in his bid for re-election by Craig Bowser and John Eplee.

In addition, three Republican candidates are vying to fill the seat being vacated by 62nd District State Representative Randy Garber. They include Dorothy Goodman, Dylan Keim and Sean Willcott.

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

(KNZA)--Neighborhoods throughout Hiawatha are being invited to join forces with thousands of communities nationwide for the “41th Annual National Night Out” crime and drug prevention event on Tuesday, evening, August 6th.

For the 29th year, the Hiawatha Police Department will sponsor the event. Local law enforcement and emergency response agencies will set up displays in the Schuneman Addition at the Fisher Center on East Iowa Street from 6-8 p.m.

The Police Department will be serving free corn dogs, chips, soda pop and bottled water.

Residents can swim free at the Hiawatha Aquatic Park from 6 to 8 p.m.

The National Night Out program helps build neighborhood unity and strengthen police-community partnerships.

(KAIR)--It's Fair Week in Atchison County! Effingham is the destination for fair goers, with the 118th Atchison County Fair being held on the city's fairgrounds.

Following Monday and Tuesday's judging and weigh ins for 4-H participants, Wednesday will welcome a full day of public events, starting at 10 that morning with the Rabbit Show, followed by the Poultry Show at 11:30, and the Bucket Calf Show at 2:00. Wednesday afternoon will also bring the Open Dairy Cattle and Dairy Goat Show and the Breeding Cattle Show. At 5:00, the Dairy Queen Ice Cream Social will be held, followed by demonstrations at the Amphitheater, which lead up to the 7:00 Fashion Review and the 7:30 Food Auction.

Another full day is set for Thursday, with the morning's Open Swine Show, followed by the Atchison County Horse Show, at 12 noon, at the Hawk Arena. The Kiddie Pedal Power Contest begins at 4:30, following a 3:30 registration, leading up to evening activities, including Lions Club Inflatables for the kids, as well as Mutton Busting, and the Open Horse Show, that evening at 7:00.

Friday will not only bring a full day of fairground activities, including the morning's 4-H Pet Show and a petting zoo, in the park, beginning at 5:00, but will, that evening, bring the annual Atchison County 4-H Fair Parade to the streets of Effingham. Beginning Friday evening at 7:00, on Main Street, the parade is being held under the theme of "From Fields to Fairgrounds." Following the parade, the Garin Nolan Band will perform at the amphitheater, and the Pony Pull will happen in the Show Arena.

Activities will continue on Saturday, the final day of fair events, including the morning's Tractor and Car Show and the 12 noon barbecue cookoff, as well as the evening's petting zoo and kids inflatables. The Bucket Calf Parade begins Friday evening at 5:30, followed by the traditional Livestock Sale, and the sale of the Mary Boldridge Cake, at 6:00, in the Show Arena, followed by the finals of the fair's Karaoke Contest, at 7:00

(KNZA)--A late Sunday morning single-vehicle Jackson County wreck sent a Circleville man to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-79 Highway, about a half-mile south of Circleville, shortly after 11:30.

According to the KHP report, 20-year-old Zachary Brucken was southbound when his pickup truck went off the roadway to the west. The vehicle traveled through the west ditch and struck a field entrance culvert before it went airborne and rolled, landing vehicle then went airborne and rolled, coming to rest on it's rooftop.

Brucken, who was wearing his seat belt, was transported to the Holton Community Hospital with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says there was also a juvenile passenger in the pickup at the time of the crash, but no information was being released on the individual.

(KAIR)--It's official: the legacy of late Mayetta resident, and veteran, Captain Elwin Shopteese, is remembered through the renaming of the VA outpatient clinic in Kansas City, Kansas.

According to a joint release from the Kansas Republicans who sponsored the legislation for renaming, Senator Jerry Moran and Senator Roger Marshall, M.D., the legislation was signed into law by President Joe Biden on July 30th.

The President's signature designates the clinic, under law, as "the “Captain Elwin Shopteese Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic” or the “Captain Elwin Shopteese VA Clinic.”

Shopteese, a member of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, was born in Mayetta on July 16, 1921, enlisting in the Kansas National Guard after his high school graduation, and served in World War II, earning a Bronze Star and a Purple Heart for his service.

Following his return from war, Shopteese, the release says, "dedicated himself to serving his fellow Native Americans, specifically the members of the Potawatomi nation."

Moran, ranking member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, says the renaming honors the "legacy of service to our country and the Native American community" provided by Shopteese, "who dedicated his life to his country and his community.”

The now renamed VA outpatient clinic opened in July 2022.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph woman was injured Saturday afternoon in a rollover wreck in Andrew County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports 47-year-old Deanna Stewart was northbound on U.S. 71 Highway, about two miles west of Savannah, when her SUV traveled off the side of the roadway and struck an embankment, causing the vehicle to overturn multiple times.

Stewart was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says she was not wearing a seat belt when the wreck occurred around 3:00 Saturday afternoon.

(KNZA)--A Saturday afternoon Jefferson County crash involving two motorcycles sent three people to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-92 Highway, at Quail Hill Drive, about two miles east of Ozawkie shortly before 1:30.

According to the Patrol report, a westbound motorcycle driven by 60-year-old Darryl Enloe, of Shawnee, was making a left turn when a westbound motorcycle driven by 72-year-old Thomas Moreland, of Olathe, failed to stop and struck the left side of Enloe's motorcycle.

Both drivers and a passenger on Enloe's motorcycle, 62-year-old Catherine Solar, of Shawnee, were transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says all three occupants were not wearing helmet's when the crash occurred but were wearing eye protection

(KLZA)--The boil water advisory for the city of Humboldt, Nebraska has been lifted.

That word came Saturday from the city after water samples came back negative for coliform.

The water system is no longer being chlorinated. The city says the residual will be in the system for a few days, but the water is completely safe to drink.

The city says customers should run cold water down their faucets for one minute. In addition, you should clean automatic ice makers by making and discarding three batches of ice. Also you should run water softeners through a regeneration cycle.

The boil advisory was issued July 20th after E-coli was found at the point-of- entry into the public water system.

(KAIR)--Doniphan County residents will join other area communities, as well as thousands nationwide, as the local county takes part in the Annual National Night Out crime and drug prevention event.

Planned for Tuesday evening, August 6, the Doniphan County Sheriff's Office, in a release, says the night out will take place in the Elwood City Park, from 6 until 9:00 that evening. Games, food, and prizes will be featured.

According to the release, the August 6 evening will allow Doniphan County residents to meet, and visit with, local law enforcement and first responders, as the county takes a stand against crime and drugs in its communities.

(KNZA)-- A scammer is claiming to be a Jackson County Sheriff's officer.

That word in a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse.

Morse says his office has received a number of complaints from residents that have received calls from an individual claiming to be Officer James Hartman with the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

Morse said there is no one by that name employed with the Sheriff's Office.

The caller is telling residents that they have missed a court date regarding a business loan.

Morse said the Sheriff's Office will not call you if you miss a court date. He says these calls are from scammers who intend to scam you and take your money, and urges residents not to provide the callers with any of your information.

If you have any questions regarding this scam or other scams, contact your local law enforcement agency.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Police Department will host a National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 6 from 5 - 8 p.m. at the Falls City Aquatic Center.

The event will include free hot dogs and free swimming.

A number of interactive displays are also planned for the event including displays from the Nebraska State Patrol, the Union Pacific, Operation Lifesaver Program along with local fire and rescue units.

National Night Out is a Police - Community Partnership program.

(KLZA)-- The Holt County, Missouri, U.S. Route 59 bridge over Interstate 29 north of Craig will be closed on Monday, August 5, from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. for an emergency bridge deck repair.

Route 59 will be closed from Missouri Route 46 near Fairfax to Missouri Route 111 in Craig.

Crews will maintain access for property owners on either side of the bridge in the closure area. No traffic will be permitted on/across the bridge.

(KNZA)--Doniphan County voters will face a special question during the August 6 primary election.

The Doniphan County Commission in May adopted a resolution submitting to voters the proposition of continuing the levying of a one percent countywide retailers' sales tax for an additional five-year period.

50 percent of the revenue generated from the sales tax is split between the county and cities in the county. The other 50 percent is shared among the county and incorporated cities based on population.

The county uses the proceeds to finance capital improvements to county-owned property, to fund road improvements, help fund updates to the countywide 911 emergency system and fund economic development incentives. Remaining funds are credited to the general fund to alleviate the tax burden on residents.

If approved by voters, the sales tax would renew October 1st, 2025 for another five years.

The sales tax has been in place since 1994.

There is also a separate countywide one percent retailers' sales tax that's dedicated to funding the ambulance service in Doniphan County.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has approved a bid for an Atchison County highway repair project.

KDOT announced in a release that Pavement Pro's LLC, of McPherson, was awarded the contract for a crack repair project on a nearly 14 mile stretch of U.S. 59 Highway in the amount of $70,077. The project will take place from the Atchison/Jefferson County line to the south city limits of Atchison.

A project start date hasn't yet been announced.

The bid letting took place July 17 in Topeka.

(KNZA)--A state charge of aggravated domestic battery has been dismissed against former Kickapoo Tribal Council Chairman Lester Randall.

A Brown County judge signed an order this week dismissing the charge without prejudice, which means it can be refiled at a later day.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill requested dismissal of the charge, which was filed in April, to allow for the federal prosecution of Randall to proceed.

A federal grand jury indicted Randall last month on four counts of felony assault stemming from alleged domestic-related incidents over the past year on the Kickapoo Reservation, which results in multiple emergency room visits for the female victim.

The grand jury indictment was returned July 17 and requested that a trial be held in Topeka.

(KAIR)--A Thursday morning Atchison crash caused no apparent injuries, but left one of the two Atchison drivers cited.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says it happened around 7:10 in the morning, at the intersection of 10th and Main Streets.

At that location, Wilson said, an SUV, driven southbound on 10th Street by 29-year-old Lucas Kuhn struck another SUV, which was eastbound on Main Street, driven by 43-year-old Andrea Myers.

Atchison County EMS was among crews called to the crash scene, where they examined both of the drivers who were not transported for any further treatment.

According to Wilson, Kuhn was cited for failure to yield the right-of-way.

Update: the statewide Silver Alert issued for a missing Leavenworth County woman has been canceled. The Leavenworth County Sheriff- Office reported Thursday evening to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) that 87-year-old Frances Kraft was located safe in Lafayette County, Missouri. She is in good condition.

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(KAIR)--The Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office requested the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue a statewide Silver Alert for a missing Lansing woman.

The whereabouts of 87-year-old Frances M. Kraft, are unknown, and public assistance is requested to help locate her.

Kraft was last seen at her Lansing home at 10 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 1. It is believed she was at the Dillons grocery store in Leavenworth until around 11:30 a.m., but she has not returned home. She was driving a maroon 2002 Honda Accord bearing tag 9049AEU.

Kraft is a white female who is 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs around 135 pounds. She has hazel eyes, grey hair, and wears glasses. Kraft was last seen wearing a light blue button-up blouse, white jeans and tennis shoes. Kraft has dementia.

If you see Frances Kraft, please call 911 immediately. If you have other information about her whereabouts, please call the Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office at (913) 682-5724.

(MSC News)--The State of Kansas ended July 2024 with total tax collections at $660.3 million. That is $6.4 million, or 1.0%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 3.0% from July 2023.

Individual income tax collections were $308.5 million, which is $8.5 million, or 2.8% above the estimate and down 1.7% from July 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $34.3 million, which is $15.7 million, or 31.4%, below the estimate and down 23.3% from July 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $305.1 million, which is $4.1 million, or 1.4% above the estimate, and down $10.1 million, or 3.2%, from July 2023. Retail sales tax receipts are 3.7% less than the July 2023 collections as Kansans continue to save money on groceries from the reduced state food sales tax rate.

(KNZA)--The Sabetha Fire Department accepted delivery Wednesday of a new pumper truck.

The Department made the announcement in a social media post, extending a big thank you to the Sabetha City Commission, Nemaha County Rural Fire District #5 and the taxpayers for making the purchase possible.

The Fire Department says the truck is "a huge upgrade and is superior in every way to the 30 plus year old truck it is replacing."

The Post says the crew cab truck with built in air pack seats will allow them to arrive at a fire ready to work, as opposed to the older truck with no pack seats and a 2-person cab, which the Department says is especially important when responding to rural fires. In addition, having a new apparatus will reduce maintenance costs and breakdowns considerably.

The Department's firefighters will spend the next week installing radios and firefighting equipment to get the truck ready for service.

The new pumper truck will be used in the city, as well as in the country.