(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners met for an emergency meeting Thursday afternoon at the courthouse in Falls City. The meeting was called following a devastating wind storm that hit portions of Richardson County Wednesday afternoon.

Straight line winds caused severe damage to public and private property, disrupted utility service and endangered the health and safety of citizens.

Commissioners voted to authorize a declaration of emergency authorized under Nebraska Statute and will execute for and on behalf of Richardson County, the expenditure of emergency funds from all available sources, invoking mutual aid agreements, and the application to the State of Nebraska for assistance from the Governor's Emergency Fund and any other resources he deems necessary in the fulfillment of his duties.

(KLZA)-- Paul Weinert, who served as Mayor of Falls City, 12 years on the City Council, served on the Utility Board and 24 years on the Civil Service Board, and Police and Fire Hiring Committee, all the while teaching at Falls City High School for 25 years, and as a full time minister at churches in Brownville and Nemaha for 25 years and he farmed his entire life, died Thursday, October 31 at the age of 94.

In addition Weinert served on the Nebraska State Education Association and was active in many organizations and activities in the community.

A funeral service for Paul Weinert of Falls City will be Saturday morning, November 9 at 11 at the Bethel Global Methodist Church of rural Falls City.

Paul Weinert is survived by his wife, Mary Jane, his children, Sue Marie Weinert, Tom and Greg Weinert, Carol Thomas and Mary Beth Smith.

(KLZA)--Trick or Treating on Lane Street in Falls City will take place Thursday, Oct 31st 3 to 7 PM and on Friday, NOV 4th 5 to 8 PM according to a Facebook post. Please note that some of the houses will not be available both days.

Although it's Halloween week, the Atchison community begins to turn its sites to Christmas, setting the date for the annual lighted parade to help usher in the holiday season.

According to a release from the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce, the Spirit of Christmas celebration, complete with the evening parade, is scheduled for Saturday, December 7. The family friendly parade will begin promptly at 5:30 that evening, led by the Atchison Police Department.

The deadline to register if planning to enter a float in the parade is Monday, December 2, and can be done through the Chamber.

Meanwhile, a holiday season sneak-peek is set for this coming Saturday, with the kickoff of Shop Small month celebrated through the Downtown Atchison Holiday Open House.

Giveaways will happen throughout the day, with 93.7 FM broadcasting live, as part of the open house, from the 600 block of Commercial, from 11 until 1:00.

(KAIR)--Atchison County has selected its property and liability insurance provider for 2025.

That decision followed what Finance Director Mark Zeltner says was a Request for Proposals process "intended to ensure due diligence when it comes to tax payer dollars."

Following what he calls a "thorough process" of reviewing the bids received, no change was needed, with the Atchison County leaders selecting, and approving, their insurance provider of more than 20-years, as KCAMP, or the Kansas County Association Multiline Pool, met the criteria sought, leading to the selection.

Zeltner, in a release, calls KCAMP the County's "trusted insurance partner," saying the County is "excited to continue this partnership in the coming year."

The action came during this week's meeting of the County Commission.

Zeltner, in a release, says the County leaders, on November 5, will not hold their regular meeting due to it being Election Day. The next meeting of the Atchison County Commission will be November 12.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson Sheriff's Office is receiving grant funding assistance for obtaining eCitations and eCrash equipment according to Bill Kovarik, Administrator of the Nebraska Department Of Transportation Highway Safety Office.

The highway safety grant funding in the amount of $15,271.50 will aid the Richardson County Sheriff's Office in purchasing eCitation and eCrash equipment to better track citation and crash information.

Nebraska has once again qualified for Federal Racial Profiling funds. The NDOT Highway Safety Office has utilized this funding to aid local area law enforcement in obtaining equipment that will improve tracking citation and crash data.

(KLZA)-- Wind damage was reported in Holt and Atchison counties in Northwest Missouri Wednesday.

North of Craig, Missouri, three semi trucks were overturned on Interstate 29, closing traffic. Numerous trees and powerlines were reported down.

Sections of the roof were blown off of the school at Craig.

Atchison-Holt Electric reported multiple power poles broken off in teh southern part of their service territory. Line crews from the Grundy Electric Cooperative, Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative and United Electric Cooperative are assisting the Atchison-Holt Electric Cooperative with repairs.

(MSC News)--Severe storms moved through northeast Kansas and southeast Nebraska Wednesday afternoon, bringing heavy rain and high winds.

In Nemaha County, winds over 70 miles an hour were reported. In addition, County Emergency Management Director Eddie Aldrine said there were several reports of a tornado in the county. However, the National Weather Service said Thursday it was a microburst.

Aldrine said the damage swath in the county is more or less from north of Centralia, through Seneca, and up through the Sabetha/Albany area.

While no major damage to homes was reported, many outbuildings were heavily damaged or demolished.

Aldrine is asking property owners to document any damages they suffered to homes, outbuildings and farm equipment. Once documented, by photo and list, residents are asked to hold on to documentation for now.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service says straight line winds are blamed for causing damage in Falls City, Nebraska.

Power lines were knocked down, mostly by falling trees and limbs. Part of the roof was blown off of the Airlanco Company building on the south edge of Falls City. Richardson County Emergency Management reported that several cars of a Union Pacific train, south of Falls City, blew off the track.

No injuries were reported in either Nemaha or Richardson Counties.

(KNZA)--A grant will be sought again for a proposed housing development project in Hiawatha.

The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening adopted a resolution authorizing Michael Webb of WPS LLC, of Wichita, to submit a grant application to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation for funding through the Kansas Moderate Income Housing Program.

Webb meet with the Commission via Zoom to request their approval to move forward.

he funding is being sought for construction of six duplexes on about two-acres of city-owned land, west of Bruning Park. The duplexes would be available for rent.

Two previous grant applications were unsuccessful.

City Administrator Brad Scott said the previous developer is not able to continue with the project at this time and Webb has expressed an interest in taking over.

Webb said he also plans to seek housing tax credits for the project.

Both applications are due November 21.

In other business, the Commission was informed the the industrial revenue bonds the city issued in 2012 for the construction of the Best Western Inn Plus Hotel have been paid off.

Bond counsel Kevin Cowan meet with the Commission via Zoom to request approval of a resolution transferring the title back to the project developer, which the Commission approved.

The hotel, located east of McDonald's, opened in June 2013.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water order for the Lakeside Village Improvement District public water supply system located in Jefferson County.

The order was issued Wednesday due to a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the system. KDHE says failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

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

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

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

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

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

(KLZA)-- The National Weather Service reported to Richardson County Emergency Management that Wednesday's storm that caused major damage in the Falls City area was straight line winds.

Power lines were knocked down, mostly by falling trees and limbs. Part of the roof was blown off of the Airlanco Company building on the south edge of Falls City. Richardson County Emergency Management reported that several cars of a Union Pacific train blew off the tracks south of Falls City.

Power was out for Falls City Utility customers following the storm.

Power to the north ring bus which provides power to the hospital, airport and other portions of the north section on non-residential areas was restored overnight.

Circuits 2 and 5 along with the sout ring bus remain unenergized due to damage. Portions of Circuit 1 also remained unenergized overnight.

Power was restored Wednesday evening to the circuits that carry power to the commercial business district along Stone Street and Harlan Street. Falls City grocery stores and gas stations are operational.

Line crews from Auburn are focusing on restoring power in the south industrial area. The Nebraska City crew is working to restore power to rural areas towards Salem. The Falls City Utility teams are focusing on all other areas.

The power distribution lines in Falls City were heavily damaged by the falling trees and limbs on Wednesday.

13 cars of a Union Pacific train were blown off of the tracks south of Falls City by the storm.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Corporation Commission is working to make residents aware of what the agency says is a suspicious offer pertaining to electric savings.

According to a release, the KCC has received a report that an individual claiming to be working with the state agency is calling utility customers and offering a 30% discount on their electric bills. Based on what has been reported to KCC, the caller asks about Medicare or Medicaid eligibility, then asks for a credit card so the refund can be applied.

KCC, calling the offer a scam, says the person is not affiliated with the agency, which urges consumers to use caution if they receive a call and to provide no personal information, with hanging up on the would-be scammer the best bet to protect financial information.

(KAIR)--A Wednesday morning, St. Joseph, Missouri crash, involving a semi and train, left one injured and hazardous materials spilled.

KQ2-TV reports the crash happened at the intersection of Alabama Street and Memorial Highway, around 5:00 Wednesday morning.

The TV station, citing St. Joseph Police, reports that one person sustained minor injuries in the crash, with the intersection blocked for a portion of Wednesday to allow for the cleanup of the spilled chemicals.

(KLZA)--The Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System has appointed Dr. Wendy Waugh as Interim President of Peru State College, effective Dec. 2, 2024. Currently serving as Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Waugh brings 33 years of experience in higher education, including five years in administrative leadership.

“Dr. Waugh's leadership and knowledge of the College will ensure a smooth transition as we prepare for and conduct a search for a permanent president,” said Bob Engles, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges.

Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System, added, “Dr. Waugh's extensive experience at the Nebraska State Colleges combined with her deep understanding of Nebraska- educational landscape and strategic partnerships make her exceptionally well-suited to lead Peru State College through this transition period. Her insight into both the College and broader Nebraska community will ensure continuity and steady progress as we work toward a permanent presidential appointment.”

Before joining Peru State, Waugh was the Dean of Graduate and Adult Programs at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she successfully expanded graduate offerings. Her visionary leadership and collaborative style will be invaluable in maintaining the College's commitment to high-quality education and student support during this transition.

Dr. Wendy Waugh holds a Ph.D. in Organization & Management, Information Technology Management Specialization from Capella University, an MBA from Chadron State College, an MSE in Education (Business Specialization) from the University of Nebraska - Kearney, a BA in Secondary Education, and BS in Management, Electronic Data Processing from Wayne State College.

The NSCS will conduct a national search for the next Peru State president. Information about the search will be released at a later date.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works is working diligently to make sure water levels remain stable.

Data is provided daily with the readings on the number of gallons pumped, pumping times, and reservoir levels. This will help keep the public informed of current conditions.

You can go to the City of Auburn website at auburn.ne.gov for updates.

Data shows two wells that pumping levels dropped slightly over the weekend. The BPW thanks the community for working to reduce water usage. Four wells are still dangerously low. Loss of these wells will most certainly cause a situation where trucking water from outside resources will be needed to support the needs of Auburn and Peru communities. Community-wide efforts are effective, and your assistance is appreciated.

Auburn BPW water customers are asked to please report misuse of water to the Board of Public Works.

The latest release of information from the BPW reports that an Auburn car wash is trucking water in from outside resources and utilizing a recycle tank in order to resume business operations.

If you have questions, please contact the BPW and they will be happy to provide you with statistics of rainfall, well levels and daily monitoring of the water pumped.

All systems are actively monitored, and data is kept on file permanently. The reservoir holds 1.5 million gallons of water and has not dropped below the normal levels. This is due to the implementation of the plan and the collaboration of the members of the Auburn and Peru communities’ reduction in use.

(KLZA)-- Residents of Brock, in Nemaha County, Nebraska were able to return to their homes around 8:45 Tuesday evening after a grass fire on the north side of Highway 136 approximately two miles east of Johnson, Nebraska, led to a precautionary evacuation Tuesday afternoon.

Fire fighters from Johnson, Auburn, Brock, Julian, Tecumseh, Talmage and Elk Creek responded to the fire which was first reported around 1:45 p.m.

In addition to the area fire departments, numerous area farmers showed up with tractors and tillage equipment while private industries that had the capability to transport water helped battle the blaze.

Residents of Coryell Park and residents of Brock received a precautionary evacuation notice in case the efforts to control the fire failed. The Wellness Center in Auburn was made available for those who chose to leave their homes.

The fire was contained after about four hours. Firefighters remained on the scene of the fire for several hours monitoring hot spots.

(KNZA)--One person was injured in a two-vehicle vehicle wreck Monday afternoon in Buchanan County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on Interstate-29, about two miles south of Faucett, just after 3:00.

According to the Patrol report, 64-year-old Gordon Linder, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was southbound in the passing lane of I-29 when his his van went off the side of the roadway and struck the median cable barriers. The vehicle overturned as it returned to the roadway and was struck by a southbound semi.

Linder was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, for the treatment of injuries.

The semi driver, from Gardner, Kansas, was not hurt.

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

(KNZA)--The 110th Annual Hiawatha Halloween Frolic will be held Thursday, October 31st.

The Frolic, which has been a tradition since 1914, was started by Elizabeth Krebs in an effort to give the town's youth something else to do besides tearing up her gardens.

This year's theme is " Hiawatha's Boo Bash."

The Frolic will feature the Miss Mary Children Costume Contest at 1:00 in the afternoon at the Brown County Historical Society's Memorial Auditorium, with registration starting at 12 noon.

The traditional afternoon Kiddie Parade will kick off around the Courthouse Square in downtown Hiawatha at 3:00.

17 girls are vying for Halloween Queen this year, with the crowning to place at 6:00 on the north side of the courthouse square. The Hiawatha High School marching band will perform at 5:45 prior to the crowning.

The day's activities will wrap up with the grand evening parade, beginning at 7:00. Sarah and Doug Kleopfer will serve as grand marshal's of this year's parade. They were nominated by the public for the honor and voted on by Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau members.

(KLZA)--Governor Mike Parson signed an Executive Order Tuesday declaring a drought alert in Missouri until March 31, 2025.

Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor indicates that all or portions of at least 88 Missouri counties are experiencing moderate, severe, or extreme drought conditions.

The Executive Order declares a Drought Alert in these Missouri counties and any additional county that begins experiencing moderate drought conditions.

In response to this Executive Order, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources will activate the Drought Assessment Committee, a workgroup set up to assess drought levels and work with impact teams on response and recovery recommendations.

During drought, local condition reports are crucial to understanding impacts to provide timely and appropriate assistance. Citizens can submit information about local drought conditions at Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR).

A variety of helpful resources are online at www.dnr.mo.gov/drought. The Department of Natural Resources is adding information on drought mitigation and assistance opportunities as it becomes available. The one-stop drought website features a link to CMOR, current drought-related news, the current United States and Missouri drought maps, the Missouri Drought Mitigation and Response Plan, and other resources, including information on previous droughts.

(KLZA)--Members of the Missouri River Basin Northwestern Division will host a meeting Thursday afternoon at 4 in Nebraska City.

The meeting will be held at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center located at 100 Valmont Drive.

During the meeting updates will be provided on this years runoff and reservoir operations as well as the plans to operate the Missouri River system during the next runoff season.

This is one of seven public session planned for this week.

(KLZA)--With one week remaining until Election Day, Secretary of State Bob Evnen is reminding voters to cast their early voting ballots or find their polling place if voting at the polls. Election Day is Tuesday, November 5.

As of Tuesday morning election offices in Nebraska have sent 363,629 early voting ballots to Nebraska voters. County election offices have received and accepted 249,235 early voting ballots. That includes 46,459 early ballots from Nebraskans who have voted early in person at county election offices.

Voters have until the close of polls at 8 p.m. on Election Day to return their early voting ballots to their county election offices or to secure ballot drop boxes. Voters should remember to sign their early voting ballot envelopes.

Early voting ballots will not be accepted after 8 p.m. Central Time, regardless of the postmark date.

Polls will be open on Election Day from 8 a.m. Central Timeto 8 p.m. Central Time. Voters who are still in line when the polls close can vote. Poll workers are trained and prepared to help voters if they require special assistance to vote at their polling places. Curbside assistance is available for those who have difficulty walking or utilizing assistive devices. Ballot-marking devices called Express Votes are available for voters with disabilities or anyone else who wishes, and they include features that can help voters with vision or mobility difficulties cast a ballot privately and independently. ExpressVotes produce a paper record of the voter- ballot.

The 2024 general election will be the first general election in Nebraska to require voter ID. County election officials and poll workers have been trained on the new voter ID requirements and procedures. A voter who does not have a photo ID with them at the polling place can still cast a ballot, but for it to count, the voter must present their acceptable photo ID to their county election office by the end of the business day Tuesday, November 12.

Acceptable IDs include: A Nebraska driver- license; A Nebraska state ID; A U.S. passport; A Military ID; A Tribal ID; A Hospital, assisted-living facility, intermediate care facility or nursing home record; A Nebraska political subdivision ID or a Nebraska college or university ID from a public or private college.

IDs can be expired. A voter- ID must have their name and photo.

(KLZA)--Premier Estates, a skilled nursing and long-term care facility in Pawnee City has announced it will be closing.

Arboreta Healthcare, Incorporated operates 34 facilities in Nebraska, Iowa, Georgia and Florida, providing skilled nursing, rehabilitation and assisted living.

In a news release dated October 11, Premier Estates announced the closure of the Pawnee City facility and noted the majority of the residents have been safely and successfully transitioned to new living arrangements.

(KAIR)--An area of Jackson County was evacuated Tuesday due to a fire, combined with strong winds and dry conditions, that led to a complete blackout.

That word comes in a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, who says the fire, on property a 1/4 mile north of 182nd Road, east of Highway 75, left the affected area unsafe until the fire was fully extinguished shortly after 1:30 Tuesday afternoon. At that time, the all clear was given, allowing residents to return to that area.

According to Morse, the fire was reported about 10 minutes after 12 noon, with the evacuation order given by the Sheriff's Office about 20-minutes later.

The fire departments from Mayetta, Hoyt, Holton, and the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, were all dispatched to battle the fire, along with Jackson County EMS and County Emergency Management.

Morse says the "crews aggressively worked to put the fire out," bringing it under control around 12:45.

No injuries are reported.

Morse says that while fire danger conditions remain, he urges all residents to remain cautious and do no type of burning outdoors.

(KAIR)--Courtesy of a state grant, covering 80-percent of the more than $900,000 price tag, Atchison's Santa Fe West Sidewalk Improvements Project is expected to begin next month.

That's according to a release from the City of Atchison, which explains that the grant funds were awarded through the Kansas Department of Transportation Safe Routes to School program, with the key goal being "to promote and facilitate safe walking and biking to and from school. "

The release explains that it was in 2017 that the City partnered with Atchison Middle School and the organization now known as Live Well Atchison County to develop a plan and a series of improved sidewalk routes to the school, in addition to successfully applying for the first Safe Routes sidewalk improvement project along South 5th Street.

The Santa Fe West project, the release notes, is stage 2 of the Safe Routes plan, and Governor Laura Kelly recently announced that the City of Atchison has received 100% funding to build stage 3 of the plan, which will be sidewalk and related improvements from North 5th Street from Santa Fe Street to Unity Street. That 3rd stage is likely to begin in 2026.

As for the current project, it's centered on Santa Fe Street, from 9th to 15th Streets, with 1 to 3 blocks of cross streets included in the $979,197 scope of work to be constructed by Julius Kaaz Construction.

The release reminds Atchison residents that "not all sidewalks...will be replaced as the project focuses on damaged, deteriorated, missing, and/or non-compliant segments of sidewalk, including any brick segments.

Addresses adjacent to the forthcoming work are receiving notification letters, which inform them to contact the City immediately with any questions or concerns.

(KAIR)--A 9-year-old child escaped serious injury, despite falling off his bike after entering a busy Atchison intersection on a red light.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the young cyclist, at the intersection of 6th Street and U.S. Highway 59, entered, causing multiple vehicles to maneuver in order to avoid striking the bicycle.

Although he was not struck, the situation led to the child, around 4:00 Monday afternoon, falling off the bike, causing him to sustain minor injuries.

According to Wilson, the child was treated at the scene by Atchison County EMS, then taken home by a parent.

(KAIR)--Atchison and Brown counties are joined by neighboring Doniphan County in reporting a rash of vehicle-focused burglaries early Saturday morning.

A social media post from the Doniphan County Sheriff's Office, complete with security camera footage of suspects, urges residents to remove all valuables from vehicles, and to lock all doors.

The release notes that "most would be criminals will not take time to break a window just to look through a car, but they will open an unlocked door to do so."

On Monday, during the weekly Doniphan County Commission meeting, Undersheriff Mark Allen brought the matter to the county leaders, saying the Sheriff- Department is investigating a rash of vehicle and shop break-ins, along with vehicle thefts, in the county from October 21 through 27. Allen, during his address, sent the reminder to residents to keep vehicles, houses, and shops locked, and to keep valuables and keys out of vehicles and out of sight.

On Saturday, along with the Doniphan County crimes, the Sheriff's Offices of Brown and Atchison counties each sent alerts regarding similar, Saturday morning vehicle burglaries that had occurred.

The Brown County crimes were focused on the Everest area; and, while an itemization of losses isn't immediately released, as the investigations in all three counties continue, sources familiar with the Everest area crimes says among the thefts was the loss of thousands of dollars worth of tools.

All three Sheriff's remind residents to remain alert to suspicious activity, and to report it to local authorities immediately.

(KLZA)-- Dr. Michael Evans, President of Peru State College, has announced his intention to retire, in a letter addressed to the Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System (NSCS). He will be leaving the campus at the end of November.

“It has been an honor to serve as President of Peru State College. The dedication of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members has made this experience rewarding, and I will always cherish the time spent working together to ensure the continued success of Peru State,” said Dr. Evans.

“Dr. Evans has been an advocate for student success, fostering a holistic approach to education while valuing the community Peru State serves. His focus on faculty and staff, along with his dedication to building strategic partnerships, has significantly enhanced opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the NSCS.

Dr. Evans began the role of President on July 1, 2021. During his tenure, the College achieved notable milestones, including the introduction of several new degree programs, maintaining affordability by limiting tuition increases to 1.8%, and spearheading the Project ROAR initiative, which focuses on strengthening campus infrastructure and student wellness.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our sincere thanks to President Evans for his service. His contributions to Peru State and the broader System over the past three and a half years have been invaluable,” said Bob Engles, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges.

The Board will appoint an interim president, shortly, to ensure a smooth transition while a search for new leadership is scheduled. The College remains fully committed to its mission of providing high-quality education and unwavering support to its students during this change.

The NSCS will conduct a national search for the next Peru State president.

(KLZA)-- Dr. Michael Evans, President of Peru State College, has announced his intention to retire, in a letter addressed to the Chancellor of the Nebraska State College System (NSCS). He will be leaving the campus at the end of November.

“It has been an honor to serve as President of Peru State College. The dedication of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members has made this experience rewarding, and I will always cherish the time spent working together to ensure the continued success of Peru State,” said Dr. Evans.

“Dr. Evans has been an advocate for student success, fostering a holistic approach to education while valuing the community Peru State serves. His focus on faculty and staff, along with his dedication to building strategic partnerships, has significantly enhanced opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Paul Turman, Chancellor of the NSCS.

Dr. Evans began the role of President on July 1, 2021. During his tenure, the College achieved notable milestones, including the introduction of several new degree programs, maintaining affordability by limiting tuition increases to 1.8%, and spearheading the Project ROAR initiative, which focuses on strengthening campus infrastructure and student wellness.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our sincere thanks to President Evans for his service. His contributions to Peru State and the broader System over the past three and a half years have been invaluable,” said Bob Engles, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges.

The Board will appoint an interim president, shortly, to ensure a smooth transition while a search for new leadership is scheduled. The College remains fully committed to its mission of providing high-quality education and unwavering support to its students during this change.

The NSCS will conduct a national search for the next Peru State president. I

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported to Commissioners last week that response and compliance has been good by landowners who have received notices regarding overhanging and overgrown brush along roads and right-of-way. Additional notices are being prepared to be sent to additional landowners in the next month.

The possibility of leasing a loader for the department was also discussed with more discussion to be held this week.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported the Sheriff's Office has received an E-Citation grant in an amount of approximately $20,300 for the purchase of equipment. The County will be required to make a match in an amount of $5,000.

County Assessor Kim Riggs reported that her office is reviewing commercial properties in Richardson County.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works Board of Directors approved rate changes recommended by JK Energy Consulting when they met October 16.

BPW General Manager Ray Luhring requested the rate changes recommended which include:

A 3% increases in electric rates on January 1, 2025, on January 1, 2026 and again on January 1, 2027.

The study suggested water rates for City of Auburn water customers and City of Peru Bulk Water rates be increased 5% on January 1, 2025 and another 5% on January 1, 20026 and then 2% on January 1, 2027.

Wastewater rates were proposed to increase 3% on January 1 in 2025, 2026 and 2027.

The proposed rates approved by the Auburn BPW will be presented to the Auburn City Council in November.

(KNZA)--Repairs will be made to the Horton Senior Citizens Center.

The Brown County Commission on a 2-1 vote Monday approved a bid from Hutfles Home Improvements in the amount of $4,460 to repair a wall, with Commissioner Bill Pollock casting the dissenting vote.

The repairs are being made so the property will remain insurable.

The Commission when they met October 14 approved the purchase of a 2003 Mack Truck equipped with a snow plow and salt spreader in the amount of $35,000 for District 3.

The purchase was approved on a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Lamar Shoemaker cast the dissenting vote.

In other business, Greg Watkins, with Watko Benefit Group, met with the Commission to discuss employee health insurance options for 2025. Following discussion, the Commission voted to approve a self-funded option through Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas.

The Commission also approved the re-appointment of Jim Scherer to the NEK-CAP Board of Directors for 2025.

(KMZA)--A Kansas City, Missouri man is facing charges in connection with a fatal wreck last fall in Marshall County.

According to court documents, John Kiser II was arrested October 16th on a Marshall County warrant charging him involuntary manslaughter, three counts of aggravated battery and texting while driving.

The charges stem from a three-vehicle wreck on September 16th 2023 at the junction of U.S. 36 and K-110 Highways, two miles south of Axtell.

Killed in the wreck was 63-year-old Denise Torrey, of Axtell. Three others were injured.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says Torrey was attempting to turn onto K-110 from U.S 36 when her vehicle was struck by a semi truck driven by Kiser. The impact forced Torrey's vehicle into oncoming traffic where it was struck by a pickup truck driven by Timothy Winkler, of Sabetha.

Torrey was pronounced dead at the scene. Winkler and two passengers in his vehicle were transported to regional hospitals with suspected serious injuries. Kiser was not hurt.

A preliminary hearing in the case has been set for October 31.

Kiser remains in the Marshall County Jail, held on a $500,000 bond.

(KMZA)--A bridge replacement project in Pottawatomie County is scheduled to begin on Monday, Oct. 28, conditions permitting.

The Vermillion Creek bridge is located about 3 miles northeast of Havensville on Armstrong Road.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says the bridge will be closed to traffic for the duration of the project, which is expected to be complete by April 2025. No marked detour will be provided. Drivers will need to find alternate routes.

Ebert Construction Co., of Wamego, is the contractor on the $670,000 project.

(KMZA)—Nemaha County voters will decide during the November 5th general election if a half cent retailers sales tax earmarked for health care services in the county should continue.

The last in a series of town hall meetings on the sales tax issue will take place Wednesday evening, October 30 at the HCC Western Center in Baileyville, beginning at 6:30.

The sales tax was was initially approved by voters in April 2015 for ten years and must be approved by voters again to continue for an additional ten years.

Proceeds from the sales tax are divided between the county's two hospitals, with 55 percent going to the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca and 45 percent to the Sabetha Community Hospital.

The funding is used by the hospitals for capital improvements, equipment upgrades and general operating expenses.

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will hold its trick-or-treat nights on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, October 29th and 30th.

Residents who want to participate are encouraged to turn their front porch light on.

The Brown County Sheriff's office will hold it's 17th annual Trick-or-Treat night on Tuesday evening. Staff will be will be handing out Trick-or-Treat bags from 5 to 8 at the Sheriff's Office located at 709 Utah Street. The bags will contain safety information, pencils, stickers, candy and glow sticks for safety.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant says his staff looks forward to the event each year, which also provides them an opportunity to interact with parents and children.

The Business Trick-or-Treat will take place Wednesday afernoon from 4 to 5 in downtown Hiawatha.

Merchant encourages all kids to have a safe and happy Halloween and follow some of these basic safety rules:

1. STAY IN WELL LIGHTED AREAS

2. ALWAYS TRICK-OR-TREAT WITH FRIENDS OR FAMILY

3. DO NOT ENTER A STRANGE HOME OR VEHICLE

4. WEAR LIGHT COLORED COSTUME OR ADD REFLECTIVE TAPE TO DARKER COSTUMES --MAKE SURE YOU CAN SEE WELL OUT OF YOUR MASK/COSTUME

5. TAKE A FLASHLIGHT WITH YOU

6. MAKE SURE AN ADULT CHECKS YOUR TREATS BEFORE EATING THEM

7. ONLY TRICK-OR-TREAT AT HOMES WITH A PORCH LIGHT ON

8. LOOK BOTH WAYS BEFORE CROSSING THE STREET

9. YOUNGER CHILDREN SHOULD BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT

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(KAIR)--It's a special recognition for Highland Community College, recognized by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona as one of the top 100 two-year colleges in the nation as part of what a release calls "the prestigious “Raise the Bar” initiative."

The honor, the release explains, "highlights the top institutions that excel in empowering students to transform their lives through education and workforce development" from among the nation's more than 1,100 community colleges across the country who award certificates and associate degrees.

HCC, in the release, cites pride in being among what it calls "this distinguished group," adding that it reaffirms HCC's "commitment to student success and career advancement."

HCC President Vincent Bowhay, in the release, calls it "an honor" to be named on the list, adding that HCC, as an institution is "focused on collegewide success strategies that deliver results while providing the skills and credentials that help students achieve their dreams.”

Through the Postsecondary Success Recognition Program, launched in April 2024, the Department of Education identified the recognized institutions using publicly available data to measure performance on key indicators related to equitable access, success, and post-college outcomes at public and non-profit institutions across the country. The metrics consider the extent to which institutions enroll low-income students and students of color in their state; help those students graduate or transfer successfully; and prepare them to enter the career of their choice and enjoy upward mobility, including recouping their costs and earning a premium over high school graduates in their state.

(KAIR)--A lively Saturday, packed full of family friendly fun for Halloween, happened in Atchison, complete with the annual, afternoon downtown parade.

Sponsored by Kiwanis Club of Atchison, the organization, in a social media post, sends thanks to all who took part, including the parade participants, with three awarded for their decorating decisions.

Earning 1st place was the Atchison Animal Clinic, with Sensational Creations taking 2nd, and Union State Bank coming in 3rd.

Children were a key part of the day, which included the annual parade-adjacent children's costume contest, held at the Atchison Library and earning the winners book gift certificates, as well as trick or treating at Commercial Street-based businesses, prior to the parade.

According to the social media post, the parade, and accompanying Atchison Halloween events, will be held October 25 in 2025.

(KAIR)--A rash of burglaries, with thieves focused on unlocked vehicles, is reported in two local, neighboring counties, with the Sheriff of each saying to be on the lookout and to keep all vehicle doors locked.

On Saturday, Brown County Sheriff John Merchant issued a release "to alert the public of recent vehicle burglary/thefts that occurred in the Everest" area around 2:00 Saturday morning.

Merchant, in the release sent to MSC News regarding the three reported crimes, included a security video capturing thieves in the act. Any information regarding the recorded suspects should be reported to the Sheriff's Office.

Several hours following the issuance of Merchant's release, which says the crimes remain under investigation, with his office networking with other law enforcement agencies, a similar alert was issued by the Atchison County Sheriff's Office.

According to the release, issued through the CodeRed alert system, there has, recently, "been an increase in thefts and vehicle burglaries in the area," with thieves "currently targeting unlocked vehicles." The release reminds residents to remove valuable items, and keys, and to keep the doors locked.

Keeping buildings locked, from homes to outbuildings, is also a must in keeping thieves deterred.

Area residents, in both Brown and Atchison counties, are also urged to remain alert to suspicious activity, and report it to authorities.

(KAIR)--Halloween comes early to Atchison, with a full day of family friendly, but spooky season appropriate, events planned for Saturday, including the annual, downtown parade.

Locally Atchison Director, Jill Thorne, during an appearance on the 93.7 FM "Morning Petting Zoo," said the parade, sponsored by the Atchison Kiwanis Club, will begin at 2:00, with participants to line up in advance, near the Lions Pool, in the 1000 block of Commercial Street.

Thorne, in advance of Saturday, did provide reminders to parade participants and spectators alike, in the name of safety, saying that a police order will prohibit Saturday parking on Commercial Street. Additionally, it's asked that participants not throw candy from floats.

Prior to the parade, and one reason behind no parking on Commercial Street, is because young ghouls and goblins will take part in "Trick or Treat Down the Street," from 11 until 2:00. Participating businesses, from the 300 block to the 900 block, of Commercial, will welcome children in search of treats for the holiday.

At the same time, Live Well Atchison County, in conjunction with the Atchison Bicycle Exchange, will have around 30 bicycles to giveaway on a first come, first serve basis. Executive Director Jeff Schuele says that will happen in the 400 block of Commercial Street, during the trick or treat event.

93.7 FM, on Saturday morning, from 10 to 12 noon, will broadcast live from Atchison's Taco Johns, where a costume contest, for kids 12 and under, will be held from 10 to 1:00, as well as the start of registrations for 93.7 FM's underway Bone Collector giveaway.

(KAIR)--The Atchison County Sheriff's Office is searching for a missing pickup truck.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the brown, 2008, Chevrolet Silverado was reported stolen Wednesday afternoon.

Laurie says that while the owner is uncertain when the truck was stolen, while parked at 8413 Pratt Road, it's believed it was taken sometime earlier in the morning.

Along with the theft, the agency is also continuing to investigate vehicle burglaries, with two more reported this week, both on Pratt Road, with one at 8291 and the other at 8309.

While Laurie says it's not believed that anything was stolen, his investigators do believe the burglaries are connected to others in the area.
Those include vehicle burglaries reported Tuesday, with two of the several reported crimes occurring in the area of 8270 Pratt Road.

As that investigation moves forward, one focused on vehicles stolen from out of the area, then set on fire in Atchison, is also continuing, as Atchison Police, in conjunction with the Sheriff's Office, and out of area agencies, continue to seek leads and suspects.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriffs office will be participating in the National Drug Take Back event Saturday, October 26.

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

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

Merchant said they also collect medications year round, 24 hours a day. He said the event provides residents an effective way to dispose of medication they no longer need or use.

Injectables and needles are not accepted.

(KNZA)--A Holton man convicted of intentionally setting a Topeka home on fire in January 2023 that killed his girlfriend and two children has learned his fate.

According to court documents, 33-year-old Kyle Tyler was sentenced Wednesday in Shawnee County District Court to life in prison on charge of first degree-murder. In addition, he was sentenced to 11 plus years in prison on two counts of aggravated arson. The sentences are to be served consecutively.

Tyler pleaded no contest to the charges in August. 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 in the fire.

(KLZA)--Area County Clerk's offices are busy preparing for the November 5 General Election. Persons wanting to vote in the election are urged to check their voter registration status to make certain they are registered at the correct address to cast their ballot.

Voter registration may be checked at www.votercheck.necvr.ne.gov or by contacting your local County Clerk's Office.

Friday, October 25 is the last day to register to vote before the election and must be done at your County Clerk's Office during regular business hours. Clerk's offices in Nebraska remain open until 6 p.m. October 25 for voter registration.

Early voting is also available now through Monday, November 4, in Nebraska at County Clerk offices during regular business hours.

Voters residing in All-Mail in voting precincts are reminded that they should have received their ballots in the mail on or shortly after October 17.

In Richardson County those precincts are: Aarago/Barada; Salem; East Muddy and Grant/Nemaha.

If you did not receive a ballot, please contact the Richardson County Clerk's Office at 402-245-2911.

(KNZA)--The Sheriff of Brown County, after receiving what he calls "several complaints about political signs being stolen," accompanied by the question, "is it illegal to steal such signs," gives a resounding "yes" to that question.

Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, says the crime falls under the theft statute; and, depending on the number of signs stolen, and the value of those signs, the theft could be classified as a felony.

Merchant, in the release, also makes clear that defacing political signs is also illegal, falling under the statute regarding criminal damage to property.

According to Merchant, several sign-theft victims have indicated they plan to press charges against suspects caught stealing such signage.

Lead poisoning is considered one of the most preventable environmental threats affecting young children across the United States and in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recognizes National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week from October 20-26. DHHS encourages parents and caregivers, families, and public health partners to take action to keep Nebraska children safe by preventing lead poisoning.

In 2023, approximately 34,669 Nebraska children were tested for lead in their blood. About 689 (2%) of children tested were confirmed to have a blood lead level at or above the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) reference value of 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). A blood lead test is the best way to determine if a child has lead poisoning.

Even relatively low levels of lead exposure can impair a child's cognitive development.

A new resource for Nebraska families is the Does My Child Need A Blood Lead Test website. This interactive map shows the blood lead testing recommendations for areas of the state with higher case rates of lead poisoning by zip code. The website also provides the steps for parents and caregivers to decide if a blood lead test is needed.
Children with elevated blood lead levels can experience delayed growth and development, damage to the brain and nervous system, and learning and behavior problems. Lead can be found inside and outside the home. The most common cause of lead poisoning in Nebraska is lead-based paint which was used in many homes built before 1978. Approximately 22% of Nebraska homes have the potential for elevated lead risk due to the age of the house.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is a joint effort between federal agencies, community organizations, and state and local governments. The goal is to raise local awareness about the danger of lead exposure and poisoning, educate parents and communities on how to reduce exposure to lead in the environment, prevent its serious health effects, and learn about the importance of testing children for lead.

Children and adults can get lead into their bodies in several ways: breathing in lead dust from building renovations, repairs, and painting or from lead being brought into the home on work clothes and shoes, swallowing lead dust, eating paint chips, and drinking water in homes that have lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. Lead poisoning can also occur from exposure to consumer products such as toys, cosmetics, and cookware. Additionally, there are emerging risks from imported spices and other food products.

Act early to get your child tested for lead. A simple blood test can detect lead. Talk to your child's healthcare provider for advice on blood lead testing. Blood lead tests are recommended for all children between the ages of 12 and 24 months and up to six years of age, if not previously tested.

If you live in a house that was built before 1978, there's a chance that lead may be present. Lead-based paint is especially hazardous in areas where paint is chipping or peeling, especially near windows, porches, and soil next to the house. You can get your home tested for lead-based paint. A certified inspector or risk assessor can be hired to check your home for lead-based paint hazards.

For more information about lead and helpful prevention tips, visit leadsafe.ne.gov/.

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

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 75 Highway, south of 290th Road, around 5:00.

According to the KHP report, 25-year-old Blake Toribio-Butler, of Midwest City, Oklahoma, was driving a northbound Ford pickup when he attempted to pass a Toyota pickup driven by 45-year-old Cosetta Frakes, of Horton, as she was making a u-turn and collided with her vehicle.

A passenger in the bed of Toyota pickup, 50-year-old Marysville resident David Smith, was transported to the Sabetha Community Hospital for the treatment of suspected minor injuries.

The two drivers, along with two passengers in the Toyota pickup, were not hurt.

(KNZA)--The Banner Creek Science Center and Observatory will officially be renamed in honor of late Holton science teacher Mike Ford during a dedication ceremony this weekend.

Ford opened a school-owned observatory in 2000 and was instrumental in the development of the science center and observatory located on N Road, southwest of Holton.

Ford died in September 2023. It was decided to name the observatory after him.

The Ford Observatory will be dedicated at the Banner Creek Science Center Saturday evening, with the doors opening at 6:00.

A flute trio performance will be held at 6:30, featuring Ford's wife, Karen, with the dedication ceremony at 7:00. A night sky observation will be held beginning at 8:00, featuring the observatory's 24-inch telescope, which Ford helped to make a part of the observatory in 2018.

The public is invited to attend the free event. Your asked to bring lawn chairs.

(KMZA)--Nemaha Central Elementary and Middle School Assistant Principal Jessica Koch has received special recognition.

During a school assembly on October 9th, Eric Sacco with the Kansas Principals Association announced that Koch had been named “ Kansas Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year.”

Koch has served as assistant principal since the 2020-21 school year. She began work in 2001 in the former B and B School District prior to consolidation.

The Assistant Principal of the Year program recognizes outstanding middle level and high school assistant principals who have succeeded in providing high-quality learning opportunities for students as well as demonstrating exemplary contributions to the profession.

As a state winner, Koch's name will be submitted for consideration to be the National Assistant Principal of the Year.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council approved a number of changes on first reading in the ordinance on Chapter 6 in Police Regulations, Article 1 concerning dogs and cats when they met Monday night.

Council members also approved changes to the employee cell phone policy concerning employees using personal cell phones for business purposes and receiving reimbursement, or being issued a company-owned phone to carry during business hours and being required to respond to business-related calls, and then returning them upon termination of employment or when requested to do so by a supervisor or management.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum reported there are no longer shift workers at night at the Falls City Power Plant. The City will have an on-call system when issues arise at night.

(KAIR)--An arrest has been made in connection with what started as the report of a prowler at an Atchison residence but turned into a pursuit that ended with the suspect driver remaining on the run.

That changed Monday, when 37-year-old Phillip Roles, of Atchison, was arrested on a District Court warrant issued for his alleged role in the crime that Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says happened August 24.

According to a release from Wilson, officers were called to the 1300 block of North 7th Street, due to a report of a prowler, on that date. When they arrived around 5:00 that morning, Wilson says officers saw an SUV fleeing from the area, and a pursuit was launched. However, no contact was made with the driver, who an investigation later determined to be Roles. It was also learned, through that investigation, that Roles was allegedly accompanied by a passenger under the age of 18 at the time of the pursuit.

Roles was arrested on the warrant late Monday morning, at 5th and Park Streets, in Atchison, with the warrant charging him with fleeing and attempting to elude, aggravated endangering a child, and twelve additional counts related to various traffic violations.

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

His bond is set at $100,000.

(KAIR)--A text message, using the name of a local bank and being received by area residents, is an attempted scam.

That's confirmed by Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, who says the message, received by residents and bank employees alike, is not legitimate.

The message, which claims to originate from Exchange Bank and Trust, tells the recipient, "your card has been used to make a payment of $1,872.67" at what the message calls "GroceryOutlet." The message asks the recipient to reply or to click on an embedded link.

Laurie says not to do either, as it's an attempt to steal personal financial information, with the best bet being to delete the message and block the sender.

Any unsolicited, similar messages should always be viewed with caution, with recipients, instead of following such directions, to contact the entity directly to make certain the message is legitimate.

Anyone who falls victim to such a scam should report it to authorities immediately.

(KAIR)--The latest case of a stolen, out of area vehicle being located in Atchison, occurred early Tuesday morning; but, unlike two other recent cases, the vehicle was not found to have been set on fire.

A release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says officers were called to northwest Atchison, the area of the Brookdale Addition, around 5:00 Tuesday morning, " in an attempt to locate a 2023 Ford F-150 pick up truck that had been stolen in Holt County, Missouri," with the vehicle- security system alerting authorities to its movement in that area.

The truck was not located, but another, a 2019 Ford F-150 stolen from the 1500 block of Brookdale Drive, was located, abandoned and unoccupied, on Harper Drive.

A short time after that truck's discovery, the one stolen from Missouri that began the morning search, was found, also unoccupied, near 8th and Spring Garden.

The investigation is continuing.

Last Thursday, a vehicle, stolen from Weston, Missouri, was found ablaze at Atchison's Jackson Park. Then, on Saturday, a vehicle, stolen from Wathena, was found burned at 244th and River Road, in rural Atchison County.

The Atchison Police Department, the Atchison County Sheriff's Office, as well as Missouri authorities, and others, are working to investigate.

Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, on Tuesday, said "it is very possible and very likely" that the two cases involving burned vehicles are related. Additionally, he said his office "also would believe that they are related to the multiple vehicle burglaries and vehicle thefts overnight" Monday.

Those cases were reported Tuesday morning, and include the burglary of a pickup truck, parked at 2447 Pacific Street, with a wallet and 9mm handgun reported stolen. Another pickup, also a Ford F-150, was also burglarized, with a vehicle jack stolen from inside it as it was parked at 17567 Parkview Street. Two other vehicles, in the area of 8270 Pratt Road, were also burglarized, with low value items stolen. That's a similar story for a theft that occurred at 9010 Pawnee Road where the burglary of another pickup resulted in the theft of a flashlight.

Laurie says his office is investigating, gathering video footage from the multiple locations where the similar crimes occurred.

(KNZA)--The report of a weekend burglary in progress, near Mayetta, has led to the arrest of three in Jackson County.

The trio, from Topeka, face charges for burglary, with 19-year-old Tanner Brooke, 20-year-old Dustin Brooke, and 21-year-old Jon Wilson located, and arrested Saturday night.

Their arrests follow what Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says was a report of a burglary in progress in the 13000 block of 162nd Road, with deputies and Hoyt Police responding to that location around 9:00, leading to the arrest of the Topeka trio.

Once in custody, all three were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KMZA)--The emerald ash borer continues to spread in Kansas, with the latest sighting of the invasive beetle confirmed in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Forest Service, working with the Kansas Department of Agriculture and K-State Research and Extension Office, confirmed the presence of the pest at a private residence in Nemaha County last week.

The emerald ash borer had been suspected to be in the county for some time. However, this is the first time a live insect was found to definitely confirm it.

Its the second Kansas county with a confirmed sighting this year. The insect was discovered earlier this year in Lyon County.

The pest has already killed hundreds of millions of Ash trees across the U.S. and Canada, and with the last sighting in Nemaha County has now spread to 15 Kansas counties.

Forest officials urge landowners to recognize signs of infestation and to develop replacement plans for declining ash trees, promoting a diverse landscape for greater resilience against pests and diseases.

(KAIR)--Public assistance is being sought by Doniphan County authorities following what's reported as several vehicles and detached buildings, in Troy, being burglarized this week.

According to a release from the Doniphan County Sheriff's Office, the crimes occurred during the early morning hours of Monday.

Now, the Sheriff's Office is requesting that anyone with a security camera, a video door bell system, or similar recording equipment, to check the footage captured between 2:30 and 5:30 Monday morning, in case suspicious activity was captured. Should that be the case, the Sheriff's Office asks to see that footage. It can be emailed to sheriff@doniphanso.org, while calls may be placed to 785-985-3711.

As the Sheriff's Office works leads in the burglaries, they are reminding the public to remember the phrase, "Lock It or Lose It."

The Sheriff's Office explains that most criminals seek the easiest targets, meaning unlocked doors on buildings or vehicles are an open invitation to a quick theft. That's why the word goes out to lock all doors, on all buildings and vehicles, and to remove any valuables from inside vehicles, especially those easily viewed from outside.

(KLZA)--Unemployment figures declined significantly during the month of August in Southeast Nebraska while statewide the jobless rate remained steady.

In Richardson County, the August unemployment rate was down 1 full percentage point to 2.9 percent. In Pawnee County, the drop in unemployment was 1.4% to 1.9%.

In Nemaha County, Nebraska the jobless rate dipped six-tenths of a percent to 3.3 percent. In Johnson County unemployment dipped seven-tenths of a percent to 3.5 percent. Otoe County had a decline in the jobless rate of seven-tenths of a point to 2.5 percent.

Gage County saw the biggest decrease in unemployment for August dropping from 6.4% in July to 2.7% in August, a decline of 3.7 percent.

(KLZA)--Women have a one in eight chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

On average, 310,720 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the United States; approximately 1,770 of those are Nebraska women. Navigating the journey of a breast cancer diagnosis is difficult but there is hope. Advancements in early detection methods and support continue to increase the chances of survival. When caught in its earliest, localized stages, the five-year relative survival rate of breast cancer is 99%.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services recognizes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month which provides an opportunity to discuss the importance of prevention and screening and to promote resources available to Nebraskans. Women are leading full lives with breast cancer as a result of earlier detection through screening tests and exams, as well as improved treatment options.

The CDC recommends that women 40-72 years old who are at average risk for breast cancer get a mammogram every two years. Breast cancer, while significantly more common in women than men, can happen to anyone.

An important resource for under or uninsured Nebraskans is the Every Woman Matters program. EWM is a federally funded program that pays for office visits associated with pap tests, pelvic exams, clinical breast exams, age-appropriate mammography, and diagnostic and follow-up tests.

The first step to enrolling in EWM is filling out the Healthy Lifestyle Questionnaire to determine what services are best for you.

For more information, visit dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Womens-and-Mens-Health.aspx or call toll free, 800-532-2227.

(KAIR)--A new face joins the staff of Highland Community College, as Dr. Jennifer Schiller is hired as vice president for strategic initiatives.

According to a release from the college, Schiller "will work closely with the president and faculty of HCC in the execution of the College- next strategic plan," while supporting "high-level, mission-critical initiatives and programs like the implementation of the Ellucian Colleague product, HCC- new student information system, and HCC- next Title III grant application."

The release notes that Schiller, whose career, to date, has been spent driving high-impact programs across all levels of K-20 education, will put her main focus on championing workforce development, economic prosperity and quality of life measures for those in the Midwest and beyond.

Schiller is mother to three children, all college-aged.

(KAIR)--Now that the spooky season is upon us, with Halloween fast approaching, local groups, schools, and organizations are planning seasonal trunk or treat events.

Among them are the first responders for Atchison County, with just such an event coming up later this month, in Atchison.

According to a release, the Atchison County EMS trunk or treat is intended as fun for the entire family, offering the opportunity to meet with EMS, as well as the Atchison Fire and Police Departments, and view, up-close, their emergency vehicles.

The trunk or treat will be held Saturday afternoon, October 26, from 3 until 5:00, at Independence Park, located in the area of the Atchison Riverfront.

Along with trunk or treating, the afternoon will also include games, prizes, face painting, and, of course, candy.

(KAIR)--Another stolen vehicle is located in Atchison County; and, like a similar case last week, had been burned and abandoned.

A release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie says it was around 8:30 Saturday morning that deputies were called to 244th and River Road, located in rural Atchison County, due to the discovery of a burned, unoccupied pickup truck.

A similar vehicle had been reported by Doniphan County authorities as having been stolen from Wathena between 4 and 7:30 that same morning, with investigating deputies determining the vehicles were the same.

The owner of the pickup was notified of its discovery, with the truck later towed from the scene.

Walnut Township firefighters assisted at the scene of the truck's discovery, with the burned vehicle found to still be hot from the fire.

The investigation is continuing.

Last week, on Thursday, Atchison Police and Fire worked together after a stolen pickup truck was discovered, that morning, fully engulfed in flames inside Atchison's Jackson Park, 1500 South 6th Street.

The truck, believed to have been a case of arson, had earlier been stolen from Weston, Missouri, with police from that location investigating the case in conjunction with Atchison Police.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman, accused of setting an Atchison business on fire earlier this month, has been ordered to undergo an evaluation to determine if she is competent to stand trial.

A judge ordered the evaluation Friday for 50-year-old Angela Dugger following a hearing in Atchison County District Court.

Dugger is to be evaluated by either the Larned State Hospital or Osawatomie State Hospital.

The case was placed on hold pending the outcome of the evaluation.

Dugger was arrested October 4th on a charge of aggravated arson after Harris Service Company, located at 1621 South 6th Street, was allegedly set on fire.

Atchison Police said a 60-year-old man was asleep inside the business when the fire was allegedly set, but escaped injury.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has voted to move forward with a surplus sale of city-owned items and equipment.

The Council took the action when they meet last week. Kris Enneking presided over the meeting in the absent of Mayor Joe Mitchell.

City Superintendent Brian Ruske proposed having Midwest Auction Pro's, of Oketo, conduct the surplus sale.

He said there would be no cost to the city and the company would handled all the advertising. The buyer would have to pay a 10 percent fee.

A link will be provided where residents can go on-line and bid on the items.

The fire department's old F150 truck , city's remaining decorative street lights and other items are to be auctioned off.

City Administrator Steve Brooks said he had department heads go through their inventory to see what they no longer needed.

A date hasn't been set for the surplus sale.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has launched what it calls “a comprehensive bus study survey to enhance public transportation services across the state.”

According to a release from KDOT, the study will assess the current long-distance bus services provided by public transit agencies and private intercity carriers. Kansas supports three intercity bus carriers: Greyhound, Jefferson Lines and Village Travel.

Anyone can take the online, six minute survey, especially users of public transit and intercity bus services.

The survey will close November 30.

According to the release, the survey feedback KDOT receives will help shape the future of Kansas’ bus services and meet the transportation needs of residents and communities across the state.

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Association of School Boards, Board of Directors and staff recognized the 2024 Awards of Achievement recipients during their Area Meeting in Nebraska City in September.

The Awards of Achievement program recognizes the dedicaiton of scool board membes through a points-based system.

Falls City School Board member June Bowers was recognized with the prestigious Level VII Award for her exceptional commitment and service.

Board members Anthony Johansen, Teresa Olberding and Cassandra Goff were honored with the level I Award which recognizes early contributions to the success of the district.

(KAIR)--An Atchison business is selected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to receive $98,000 from a total of more than $650,000 in shared grant funding intended for energy enhancements.

According to a release from USDA, the grants are earmarked to help rural Kansans in seven communities build renewable energy generation systems or improve their existing energy efficiency.

In Atchison, the Berger Company, named in the release as "an established leather manufacturer," will receive a grant of $98,764 to purchase, and install, a 68.73 kilowatt solar system, with USDA saying the "project is expected to generate 97,427 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year, enough energy to power eight homes."

A Leavenworth County business, located in Tonganoxie, will also benefit, with more than $48,000 going to Brothers Market 5 Inc. to allow for the purchase, and installation, of LED lighting, with the release saying that's expected to save enough energy annually to power eight homes.

USDA Rural Development Kansas Director Christy Davis, in the release, says the program means "Kansas farmers and rural business owners can expand their operations while lowering energy costs,” while supporting rural communities with clean energy production and improved efficiency.”

(KLZA)--Richardson County Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported to County Commissioners last week that The Nebraska Jail Standards annual inspection conducted recently found the facility to be in full compliance.

Sheriff Hardesty also reported that Jail Standards has approved the proposed replacement and improvements to the electronic control programming and stations a the Law Enforcement Center. The project will be completed by Electronic Contracting of out of Omaha.

Commissioners will be reviewing a bid for the creation of an enclosure at the jailer observation area from the countertop to the ceiling with a metal frame and Marguard.

County Attorney Samantha Scheitel reviewed an Interlocal Agreement presented by Pawnee County for Law Enforcement Mutual Aid between the two counties. The agreement was approved unanimously by the Board.

(KNZA)--Advance voting for the November 5th general election is to begin Monday, October 21 in Brown County.

Brown County registered voters may vote an advance election ballot in person at the County Clerk'S Office located in the Brown County Courthouse during regular office hours.

The County Clerk's office will provide extended office hours Saturday morning, October 26, from 10 to 12 noon for early voting.

Voters may vote in person up until 12:00 noon on Monday, November 4th.

Your reminded to bring a photo ID.

Voters may also request an application to have an advance election ballot mailed to you. The last day to apply for advance election ballot is October 29th.

For more information, contact the Brown County Clerk's Office at 785-742-2581.

(KNZA)--As November's general election approaches, advance voting is now underway in Doniphan County.

According to a release, advance voting, at the County Clerk's Office, located in the Doniphan County Courthouse, at Troy, can be done weekdays, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 to 4:30 each day.

The County Clerk's office will hold special hours on Saturday, November 2nd, to allow voters to cast their in person advance ballots from 8 that morning until 12 noon.

Advance in person voting will continue until 12 noon on November 4.

Voters are reminded to bring their photo ID in order to vote.

The release notes that voters may also apply for an advance ballot by mail until October 29.

(KMZA)--No injuries were reported in an early Saturday morning house fire in rural Nemaha County, Kansas.

The Sabetha Fire Department was called to the fire, south of Woodlawn, shortly after midnight.

The Department, in a social media post, said when firefighters arrived they made an aggressive interior attack on the basement fire, which was quickly contained and extinguished.

The release said a water line in the basement melted and leaked during the fire, which helped slow the spread.

The department said all the occupants made it out safely.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Sabetha EMS responded and provided standby.

Fire crews were back at the station shortly before 2 a.m.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Board of Education voted to accept the resignation of Jim Robidoux from his position as the Spanish Teacher at Falls City High School when they met Monday evening. Robidoux has been teaching in District 56 for five years.

The Board also approved a contract with Chelsea Hamilton as a Speech -Language Pathologist.

Board member June Bowers was appointed to be the District 56 representative at the NASB Delegate Assembly.

(KLZA)--The Department of Health and Human Services encourages low-income households to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help with the costs of heating and cooling.

The heating season for the program begins October 1 and continues through March 31.

To qualify, a household must meet the following guidelines.

Have income at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.

Meet the citizenship and residency requirements;

Be responsible for home energy utilities;

Not be otherwise disqualified or ineligible,'

Those who are currently receiving Economic Assistance benefits do not need to submit an application to quality for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Individuals not currently receiving Economic Assistance benefits can apply for the program through DHHS.

(KLZA)--The Pawnee City Board of Education voted to accept, with regret the resignation of Mark Bloss as Ag Teacher and FFA Advisor when they met Monday evening. His resignation is effective at the end of the current school year.

A number of Policy Committee recommendations were approved, including the policy on professional boundaries and appropriate relationship between employees and students and a policy concerning political activity by school staff members.

The Board also approved Education Foundation expenses including $10 thousand for auditorium upgrade to include a new control room; $3,700 for a new Clavinova piano, $2 thousand for drama props and costumes and $3,084 for an air compressor.

(KAIR)--$6.6 million in federal dollars is earmarked for a Holton telecommunications company as part of ongoing efforts to expand high speed internet in Kansas.

According to a release from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a loan of $6,630,755 " will help J.B.N. Telephone Company, Inc., of Holton, deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network to provide high-speed internet," with the network to benefit 329 people, seven businesses and 178 farms in Cloud, Republic and Washington counties.

USDA Rural Development Kansas Director Christy Davis says the funds will "connect rural residents, farmers and business owners in northeast Kansas to reliable high-speed internet," with Davis, in the release, explaining that "keeping Kansans connected…brings new opportunities and better economic security.” She credits USDA- ReConnect Program for providing the investment that she says "will drive economic security and rural prosperity for generations to come.”

(KAIR)--As area residents watch the east coast hurricane damage, wondering how to assist those in need, the City of Valley Falls, through an effort inclulding state emergency management, has put together a fund raiser for the hurricane victims.

(KMZA)--Advance voting is underway in Nemaha County for the November 5th general election.

Nemaha County registered voters may now vote an advance election ballot in person at the Nemaha County Clerk- Office.

Voters may vote in person up until 12:00 noon on Monday, November 4th.

Your reminded to bring a photo ID.

Voters may also request an application to have an advance election ballot mailed to you. The last day to apply for advance election ballot is October 29th.

For more information, contact the Nemaha County Clerk- Office at 785-336-2170 Option 1

(KLZA)--The Auburn Board of Education voted to enter into a 2-year cooperative agreement with the Humboldt -Table Rock - Steinauer School in girls soccer when they met Monday evening.

The co-op will begin with the current school year. Boad member James Paschal cast a nay vote with Board members Bill Chapin and Ryan James absent from the meeting.

Board members learned there are 263 students in High School in Auburn; 192 in the Middle School for a total of 455 in grades 6 - 12.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Public School Board of Education has selected BVH Architecture to conduct a comprehensive facility assessment and develop a master plan for future improvements. This process will begin this fall and is anticipated to be complete in the spring of 2025.

BVH will work closely with Falls City Public Schools to analyze existing facilities, evaluate their alignment with current and future educational programs, and study the effectiveness of the facilities for teaching and learning.

This assessment will inform the development of a master plan that includes potential project budgets, schedules, and phasing plans.

To ensure that all stakeholders have a voice in the process, the district will provide opportunities for school staff, students, and the community to participate in the planning. This input will help the Board of Education understand the full needs of the community and make informed decisions.

BVH Architecture is a well-respected firm in the education community, known for its expertise in school design and master planning. The firm has a proven track record of working with schools in the region on projects ranging from small renovations to large-scale bond programs. Current clients include Wahoo Public Schools, Fremont Public Schools, Lincoln Public Schools, and Fillmore Central Public Schools.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha chapter of the National Teammates Mentoring Program has received special recognition.

Teammates Kansas Regional Coordinator John Pfau announced at Monday's Hiawatha School Board meeting that the Hiawatha chapter had been selected as the " 2024 Kansas Chapter of the Year."

Pfau presented a certificate to Hiawatha chapter coordinator Kim Krauter in recognition of the success of the local chapter, which has been in existance since 2020.

The school-based mentoring program was founded in 1991 by former University of Nebraska head football coach Tom Osborne and his wife, Nancy, to inspire students to reach their full potential.

The program is currently in five states, with 12 chapters in Kansas.

Two Hiawatha Elementary School teachers were also recognized at the meeting. Board President Roni Tietgens presented certificates of recognition to 4th grade teacher Ariel Blanton and IRC teacher Sara Edie for their work in the classroom and positive attitude.

In other business, the board on a 6-1 vote approved a bid from School Specialty for sound proofing panels to be installed in the elementary school gym/lunchroom at a cost of $30,647. It was lowest among 3 bids received. Board member Ian Schuetz cast the lone dissenting vote. He felt the district should explore less costly alternatives.

Also at the meeting, the board approved two early dismissal dates. School will dismiss at 12:30 on December 6 and January 29.

Following an executive session, the board accepted the resignations of IT specialist Eric Edie, high school custodian Myles Long and Theresa Williams as middle school track coach. The board also approved hiring Ariel Young as elementary school para, Michael Gabbard as middle school para, and Liam Jones as high school assistant track and field coach.

(KMZA)--A Seneca business and a Seneca business CEO have been recognized by the Kansas Department of Commerce for their outstanding contributions to the community and state's economy.

Koch and Company was awarded the Manufacturing/ Distribution Regional Award for northeast Kansas at the recent To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards, while Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems CEO Lukas Koch was awarded the Regional Award in the Under 30 Entrepreneurs category.

Nearly 350 businesses, organizations, and individuals were nominated for nine different categories. There was a total of 226 Merit Awards and 45 Regional Awards presented at the event.

The awards ceremony was held October 3 in Great Bend.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has voted to enter into an agreement with Miller Trash Service for operation of the county transfer station, beginning November 1st.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, the Commission took the action when they met Tuesday.

Cody Miller, representing the Troy-based trash service, presented the Commission with a proposal for operation of the transfer station.

Under the proposal, the transfer station would be open four afternoons per week plus two Saturday mornings per month, subject to change.

The Commission approved limiting trash collection at the transfer station to local Doniphan County residents only, beginning November 1st.

County Attorney Charles Baskins will draft an agreement between two parties.

Waste Management, who currently operates the transfer station, will end their contractual agreement with the county on October 31st.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Library and Arts Center will present a screening of the film, Lost Nation: The Ioway, in the Stalder Gallery Friday afternoon, October 18th at 5 p.m.

The Fourth Wall Film is an award winning documentary.

On Sunday, October 20 a Gallery Reception and Talk will be held at 2 p.m. featuring a presentation by tribal members to address the nearly forgotten history of the Native Americans in this area.

The exhibit is made possible through the cooperation of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska, and the loan of art from the Iowa and Sac & Fox Mission Museum of Highland, Kansas.

The events are sponsored by the Richardson County Arts & Humanities.

(KAIR)--Atchison County residents are reminded of the rough conditions of an area roadway, with Commissioners working with the Road and Bridge Department to upgrade its condition.

According to a release from the County, Ottawa, Osborne, and Osage, from 262nd to 206th, is deteriorating, with crews working to patch what's possible.

Motorists are reminded of the condition through signage now put in place, with the County asking those who drive the area to slow down for the rough roadway.

The current roadway condition is set to be discussed at the upcoming meeting of the Atchison County Commission, planned for Tuesday.

(KAIR)--A casting call, of sorts, goes out to the Atchison area, as residents are needed as voices in a community Christmas Choir.

According to a release, rehearsals are set to begin Halloween evening, Thursday, October 31, at 6:30, at the Atchison Area United Methodist Church, located at 501 Kansas Avenue. Any area resident wanting to sing is welcome, with no auditions to be held.

The release says rehearsals will be held for six weeks, skipping the night of Thanksgiving, with the choir to be directed by Marta Myers, accompanied by Melissa Blanton.

The rehearsals lead up to the actual performance, with the Christmas concert to be presented Sunday afternoon, December 15, at the Atchison church. 367-6707.

Anyone interested in singing in the choir is welcome, but are asked to contact Myers in advance, through call or text, at 913-367-6707. She can also be reached, by email, marta.myers@atchisonumc.org.

(KAIR)--A stolen pickup truck is found ablaze in Atchison's Jackson Park, with the Atchison Fire Department called to that location early Thursday morning.

Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar says the report of the fire was made around 5:15 in the morning, adding, in a release, that arriving firefighters found the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado completely engulfed in flames.

According to Weishaar, the firefighters "were able to extinguish the fire but not before the vehicle had been severely damaged due to the amount of time that had lapsed before the fire was discovered."

No one was found in, or near, the fire-ravaged vehicle, nor were any firefighters, or Atchison Police Officers, injured as the fire was battled in the park, located at 1500 South 6th Street.

The cause of the fire is not immediately determined, but Weishaar says "it's probable the fire was arson.'

While the Fire Department investigators probe the scene, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says his department is also working with Weston Police as part of the ongoing investigation, due to the truck having been reported stolen from that Missouri city a short time prior to the discovery of the fire.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has approved a resolution opposing a proposed five-mile wide electric transmission line corridor that would run through the county and placing a moratorium on the project until certain conditions are met.

The Commission unanimously approved the resolution at their October 7th meeting.

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--the Midwest Plains Corridor--would run locally through Marshall, Nemaha, Brown and Doniphan Counties.

The proposal would allow the federal government to take land through eminent domain, which the resolution says would have a devastating impact on Nemaha County's tax base and the local agricultural community.

The resolution places a moratorium on the project until the Department of Energy provides the county with three studies proving no health hazards exist to water sources in the county, assumes liability for all hazards associated with the project and resolves how the agency is going to compensate the county for the loss of tax revenue.

(KAIR)--Work is underway as part of the $27.3 million dollar bond issue approved by voters earlier this year for a variety of improvements at the Atchison Public Schools of USD 409, ranging from HVAC replacement to student safety.

Late last month, ground was broken on one of the first bond projects, that being the Atchison High School baseball field.

On Monday, Superintendent Dr. Renee Nugent took to social media, using her weekly "Monday Minute" to provide, on site, a view of the underway work, while explaining that, later this week, focus will be placed on what's to come for enhancements at the Atchison Elementary School.

(KLZA)--Nebraska- first voter registration deadline for the November 5, general election is coming up Friday, October 18. It will be the final day that Nebraskan's can register to vote.

You can register online by midnight; by mail postmarked by the 18th, by secure drop box, at a state agency by deputy registrar or by personal agent.

Nebraskan's who are already registered to vote should check to verify their voter registration infomration is up to date on VoterCheck.

The final general election voter registration deadline if Friday, October 25. That is the final day you can register to vote in person at your county election office. Offices will be open until 6 p.m on the 25th.

(KLZA)--The ballots for the All-Mail voting precincts, which include, Arago/Barada, Salem, East

Muddy and Grant/Nemaha, in Richardson County, are being ( were ) mailed on Wednesday, October 16.

Voters who reside within these precincts will receive their ballots in the mail and should watch their mailboxes for them on October 17 or October 18. Please notify the County Clerk- Office if you reside within one of these precincts and did not receive a ballot or if you have any questions regarding the All-Mail ballots.

(KLZA)--Peru State College invites you to a special event on Thursday, October 17th, at 11:00 a.m. in the Performing Arts Center to express our gratitude to Dr. Daryl Long and pay tribute to his late wife, Peggy Long. The event will recognize their remarkable generosity, particularly their gift of 26 acres to the college, which will play a key role in the institution- future development.

President Michael Evans expressed his appreciation, stating, “Peru State College is thrilled to receive this generous gift from Daryl and Peggy Long. This property will impact the College far into the future, and we’re eager to explore how to use it to benefit our students. This land will forever be known as the Long Farm, and a bronze plaque will be installed to honor their contribution.”

Dr. Long credits his financial success to Peggy, who worked while he pursued his doctoral studies. Together, they were able to grow their funds, providing not only the recent land donation but many other gifts to Peru State College over the years.

“Peggy and I always believed in the power of education and its ability to bring positive change. Peru State College holds a special place in our hearts, and we are honored to contribute to its growth,” Dr. Long shared.

The Longs have left a legacy at Peru State. They were Grand Marshals of the 2017 Homecoming parade, and Dr. Long was recognized with the College- Distinguished Service Award in 2022. Their previous contributions include two sculptures on campus and two endowments to support the college- etiquette dinners and the Distinguished Speaker Series.

Please join us for this special event during Homecoming Week to celebrate the Long family- extraordinary legacy. Refreshments will be served in the lobby following the event. Dr. Daryl Long looks forward to seeing you all on campus.

(KLZA)--A single vehicle wreck on U.S. Highay 59 approximately 8 miles north of Tarkio Tuesday morning sent 36-year-old Daniel Irvine of Tarkio to the hospital with what the Missouri Highway Patrol described as moderate injuries.

Irvine was northbound in a Dodge Charger that went off the west side of the road and struck an embankment.

Irvine was transported to the Fairfax Community Hospital by private vehicle.

The Atchison County Sheriff's Office assisted at the scene of the wreck.

(KAIR)--A once in 80,000 year opportunity approaches this evening, Tuesday, October 15, and Atchison's Benedictine College is offering an opportunity to experience it first hand.

The celestial event, as a release from the college calls it, is the passing of Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS, as well as views of Saturn and the moon.

That will happen this evening, from 7 until 8:00, at the Daglen Observatory, located on the hill at the corner of Atchison- 3rd and N Streets. Admission is free.

According to a release from the college, the comet will also be visible to the naked eye for approximately the next week. Look south by southwest low on the horizon starting around 7:00 p.m. For better viewing, use binoculars, or an exposure of a few seconds with your phone.

The release notes that Comet Tsuchinshan - ATLAS was just discovered last year by an observatory in China and simultaneously by the ATLAS observatory in South Africa.

(KAIR)--The end of the day, Tuesday, October 15, is the deadline to register to vote in the fast approaching 2024 general election.

That word comes in a release from Atchison County Clerk Michelle Phillips, who tells MSC News advance voting, for the election, is set to start, at her Atchison County Courthouse office, one week from today. That due to state law that allows voters to cast their ballots, in advance and in person, up to 20 days before an election.

While the County Clerk's office, and the Courthouse, is open weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm, Phillips has arranged a series of dates for extended office hours to allow in person, advance voting.

According to the schedule provided by Phillips, her office will be open from 8 am to 7 pm on Wednesday, October 23, and Tuesday, October 29. On Saturday, November 2, the office will also be open, from 10 that morning until 2 in the afternoon.

Advance voting in person ends at noon, Monday, November 4.

The General Election will be held Tuesday, November 5.

(KAIR)--The cities of Horton and Holton are, combined, set to receive $4 million dollars in state and federal funding to make power-grid related improvements.

The two local cities are among a total of 11 Kansas communities receiving a portion of more than $17 million for energy grid resilience.

That's according to a release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, which explains the "investment combines nearly $12 million in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding from the U.S. Department of Energy-...Grid Resilience Grant Program and more than $5.8 million in matching funds from the Kansas Infrastructure Hub and Build Kansas Fund."

Horton will see its funding used for a substation upgrade, with the city receiving $529,494 in Build Kansas Funding, and an additional $1 million-plus in federal funding, for a total of $1,625,000.

In Holton, the funds, totaling $2,444,000, are earmarked for transformer and feeder circuit improvements, with more than $796,000 awarded through Build Kansas Funding, while the additional $1,647,640 comes through federal funding.

Kelly, in the release, says the funding "ensures [Kansas]communities have the resources to build, operate, or maintain critical infrastructure.”

According to the release, the Build Kansas Fund has, in recent months, also been used to leverage grant awards in 13 cities, including, locally, Ozawkie and Nortonville.

The combined total investment by the Build Kansas Fund in all projects is just over $28.5 million, which has resulted in federal grant awards of more than $44 million.

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will seek a loan through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment to fund improvements to the city's sanitary sewer system.

Following a hearing Monday evening drawing no public comment, the Hiawatha City Commission approved a resolution authorizing the filing of an application with KDHE for a $5.5 million loan.

The city is seeking funding through the low interest State Revolving Loan Program.

The funding will be used for improvements to the south sewer lift station and associated sanitary sewer piping for peak flow management.

In other business, the Commission approved an extension for completion of the north sewer lift station improvement project. A change order was approved for Irvinbilt Constructors, extending the project to February 17, 2025 for substantial completion and May 17, 2025 for final payment.

The Commission adopted an ordinance updating the purchasing policy for the city of Hiawatha. The city administrators spending authority will be increased from $5,000 to $10,000. The Commission approved adding the updated policy to the employee's handbook.

The Commission also approved designating October 29 and October 30 as Trick-or-Treat nights in the city of Hiawatha.

(KAIR)--A bridge repair project begins in Doniphan County, and residents are alerted to the accompanying closure of Ash Point Road, from 140th Road north to 160th Road.

According to the Doniphan County Road and Bridge Department, crews conducting the bridge repairs have begun moving into the work zone, with motorists traveling in that area asked to use an alternate route until repairs are complete.

(KLZA)--Get ready to roll the dice and hit the jackpot at this year's Peru State College Homecoming extravaganza, “Viva Las Peru!”

The College invites alumni, family, and friends to campus Friday and Saturday, October 18 and 19 for the 2024 Homecoming.

Relive your glory days with a dazzling celebration blending the vibrant energy of Las Vegas with the warm spirit of Peru State College. Reconnect with old friends, savor delectable food, enjoy the various entertainment, and revisit the place of unforgettable memories.

The Peru State College Foundation will host its All-College Reunion on Friday evening, October 18, in the Student Center. Any graduate or friend of the College is invited to attend. The Foundation will honor the class of 1974 and its affinity classes (’73 and ’75), and those from the other honored classes, including 1964, 1984, 1994, 2004, and 2014.

On Saturday, October 19, the Homecoming Parade begins at 10 a.m. The Student Senate has selected Gloria (Bean ’70) Adams of Peru, Nebraska, and Beverly Hill, Florida, as the Grand Marshal. To register for the parade, please go to https://www.peru.edu/events/homecoming/ and click on “Parade Entry.”

Following the parade, everyone is invited to a tailgate held on the campus quad, compliments of the College and the Foundation.

The Peru State Jazz Band and Bobcat cheerleaders will be on hand to entertain the lunch crowd. In addition, there will be other activities available for the young and young-at-heart. Better yet, it is free and open to all in attendance.

That afternoon the Bobcat football team will host the William Penn Statesmen at 2 p.m. At halftime, Homecoming royalty will be crowned.

(KAIR)--A familiar face in area law enforcement, and government leadership, gains a new role.

John Calhoon, once the Sheriff of Atchison County-turned Horton Police Chief/City Administrator, is now named to serve as interim Undersheriff for Jackson County. Calhoon, a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says, served 19 years as Sheriff of Atchison County and has over 30 years of experience in public administration.

Calhoon gains the new role due to Scott Morris stepping down from the Undersheriff position. Morris, the release says, " first joined the Jackson County Sheriff's Office in 2020 after serving a long career with the Kansas Highway Patrol," and was appointed as Undersheriff in September, 2022, replacing then-outgoing Undersheriff Darrel Chapman.

Morse, in the release, credits the skills Morris brought from KHP to the Sheriff's Office, with the release calling him "a vital part of the many accomplishments that have been made in recent years at the Sheriff's Office."

Calhoon fills the position as "Morris plans to slow down somewhat in his work life," with the release noting he "will continue his association with the Sheriff- Office on a part-time basis," planning "to continue to share his expertise with the K-9 Program and with Tactical Training which are some of his greatest passions."

Following Morris' resignation, Morse appointed Calhoon to the position in an interim capacity, with Morse saying Calhoon "will be a tremendous asset to the role of Undersheriff," adding there "are few people with his experience and knowledge," saying he believes Calhoon "will continue to improve and build on the services" offered by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Public Schools proudly announce that Tabitha Nelson, a Special Education Paraeducator, has been awarded the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Associations Para to Teacher & Transition to Teaching Scholarship.

This scholarship program aims to address the teacher shortage in rural Nebraska schools by supporting individuals transitioning into teaching roles.

Tabitha is currently enrolled at Chadron State College, where she is pursuing a major in K-12 Special Education. The NRCSA scholarship provides her with the opportunity to participate in the “Para to Teacher” program. This program, along with transitional teaching programs, helps paraeducators like Tabitha attain full teaching certification while continuing to work in their local school districts.

Tabitha Nelson is among three $1,000 recipients of the NRCSA scholarship for the fall semester. An additional three scholarships will be awarded for the spring semester each year. Candidates must be employed by an NRCSA-member school district or ESU, and scholarships are available for those attending accredited colleges or universities within Nebraska.

The Falls City Public Schools commend Tabitha for her dedication to education and her commitment to serving the students of Falls City. This scholarship will assist her in achieving her goal of becoming a certified K-12 Special Education teacher, contributing to the ongoing effort to ensure quality education in Nebraska- rural areas.

(KAIR)--Atchison, Holton, and Leavenworth are set to receive a portion of the near $31.5 million designated to assist funding 31 bicycle and pedestrian projects across the state.

Announcement of the funding was made Monday through a release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, which says the funding is intended "to create safer, more walkable and bike-friendly routes through the Transportation Alternatives Program," with Kelly adding that the investment is "about strengthening the safety, accessibility, and mobility of [KS] communities."

The City of Atchison is named to receive funding support for two projects, with Unity Street Pedestrian Improvements, from 2nd to 6th Street, to be funded through nearly $814.5 . The City's North 5th Street Safe Routes to School is earmarked to receive more than $924,000.

The City of Holton will receive more than $2 million for the Highway 75 Pedestrian/Non-Motorized Vehicle/Bicycle Safety Project, while the City of Leavenworth gains nearly $630,000 for Downtown ADA Sidewalk Ramp Improvements.

According to the release, "the competitive grant program, administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation and provided by the Federal Highway Administration, is currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School." The release notes that the program requires a 20 percent local match of the project cost. The non-federal required share will consist of $2.79 million in local matching funds and $5.15 million in KDOT state funding.

Kansas Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed, in the release, notes that the announcement marks the largest grant funding the state has awarded since the launch of the federal program.

(KNZA)--An Oregon man is facing drug distribution charges in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says 44-year-old Jesse Hewes, of Independence, Oregon, was arrested last Thursday near Mayetta after deputies allegedly found illegal drugs his his car.

Hewes was arrested for distribution of cocaine, distribution of a hallucinogenic drug, and distribution of marijuana. In addition, he was arrested for felony possession of drug paraphernalia, criminal use of a weapon and no drug tax stamp.

Following his arrest, Hewes was booked into the Jackson County Jail where he remains held on a $50,000 bond.

(KAIR)--The State Child Death Review Board has released its annual report, revealing what a release calls "a troubling rise in drug-related deaths among Kansas children aged 0-17."

According to the release, issued by the office of Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, the number of such deaths, in 2022, increased to 16, up from 11 in 2021, highlighting what the release identifies as "a significant and alarming trend associated with fentanyl."

The report, which analyzes deaths of children from birth to age 17, reflects a broader national crisis, with the CDC reporting 107,941 drug overdose deaths for all age groups in 2022.

In recent years, both nationally and in Kansas, the data shows an increase in the use of synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which the release says "is frequently incorporated into illicitly manufactured pressed pills and mixed with other substances without the knowledge of the end user."

According to the board report, there were ten drug-related deaths in children ages 4 or younger between 2019 and 2022, six being the result of the child finding unsecured illicit drugs. In 2018, the state recorded zero drug-related deaths in that age category. For older youth, counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl are a rising concern as 69% of the drug-related deaths during this time period were in youth ages 15-17, many of whom, the release says, "were experimenting with drugs without knowledge there was fentanyl."

Overall, the report revealed that Kansas recorded 389 child fatalities in 2022, an increase from 349 in 2021, resulting in an overall child death rate of 56.3 deaths per 100,000 population.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Library & Arts Center is excited to announce it is one of seven Nebraska public libraries and elementary schools to be awarded a 2024 Dollar General Literacy Foundation Youth Literacy grant.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation- Youth Literacy grants provide funds to assist in implementing new or expanding existing literacy programs, purchasing technology or equipment to support literacy initiatives, and/or purchasing books or materials for literacy programs. Our grant funds will be used to create and implement a customized version of the nation-wide “1000 Books before Kindergarten” library program. “1000 Books before Kindergarten” is designed to help parents prepare their children for one of life- big milestones: kindergarten.

Research has proven over and over that children get ready to read years before they begin their formal education and the most effective way to get a child ready to learn is to read to them. Our program will extend the reach beyond kindergarten to children through the end of first grade - allowing us to reach many more pre-reading and early reading children.

Families will track the number of books read and small prizes will be awarded at the completion of various levels of the program. This will be a self-paced, family-powered program with lots of fun games and prizes along the way. This program will provide another opportunity for children and families to grow together with the added benefit of increased pre- and early literacy skills allowing children to be better prepared to both enter and progress in school.

Details are being finalized and we anticipate kicking off the program by the end of November 2024.

(KNZA)--The November 5th general election is just around the corner, and the Brown County Clerk's Office will be providing an opportunity this week for residents to vote early in the upcoming election.

On Thursday, October 17th, the County Clerk's office will provide three early voting locations. Early voting will be able at the Morrill Community Building from 9 to 11 in the morning. Maple Grove West Complex in Hiawatha from 12 noon to 1 and at the Northfield Community Room, in Everest, from 2 to 3 in the afternoon.

The County Clerk's Office reminds voters that a photo ID is required to vote.

Residents are also reminded that Tuesday, October 15 is the deadline to register to vote or to update your voter registration information.

(KNZA)--The 2nd Judicial District Nominating Commission is seeking nominations to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Jefferson County that will be created when District Magistrate Judge Dennis Reiling retires at the end of his term.

The 2nd Judicial District is composed of Jackson, Jefferson, Pottawatomie, and Wabaunsee counties.

Justice Caleb Stegall, the Supreme Court departmental justice responsible for the 2nd Judicial District, said individuals can apply or be nominated, but nominations must come on a nomination form and include the nominee's signature.

Nominations forms are available from the District Court clerk offices in the 2nd Judicial District and must be submitted by noon, November 5th.

The nominating commission selects who is appointed to fill the district magistrate judge vacancy.

The commission will convene on November 20th at 9:00 in the morning at the Jefferson County Courthouse in Oskaloosa to interview nominees.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has approved bids for a pair of Marshall County bridge projects.

King Construction Company, of Hesston, was awarded the contract for the replacement of a bridge over Deer Creek on a county road about 9 miles north of the U.S. 77/U.S. 36 west junction in the amount of $2.7 million.

Ebert Construction Company, of Wamego, was awarded the bid for the replacement of a bridge on K-99 over Jim Creek, located about 4 miles north of the Pottawatomie County line, in the amount of $2.5 million.

The bid letting took place September 18 in Topeka.

Construction start dates for the bridge projects haven't been announced yet.

(KAIR)--A full sized replica of the keelboat used by Lewis and Clark during their expedition of the western United States in 1804-1806, is on its way to Atchison.

That's part of the 121 mile voyage undertaken by members of the Lewis and Clark Discovery Expedition of Saint Charles, Missouri, aboard the keelboat, which. sometime Thursday, will arrive in Atchison, following a Wednesday night stop in Rulo, Nebraska.

Atchison's Karen Seaberg has worked closely with the team to see that their return trip to Atchison, 20-years-after their last visit which she also helped arrange, is a success. She spoke Monday during the Atchison City Commission's regular meeting, prior to approval being given to the local stayover.

The Keelboat is set to depart Atchison on Sunday, following its Friday through Sunday stop at the City's riverfront, near Veterans Memorial Park,. Friday, Seaberg told the Commission, is for Atchison students to visit, while Saturday will allow the most time for the public to visit the expedition.

Following Seaberg's presentation, the Commission granted unanimous approval to requests regarding the journey, including use of the riverfront area.

• October 10: The boat and crew will depart Rulo on October 10 and head for Atchison, Kansas.

• October 10-13: The keelboat will arrive on October 10 at Atchison, Kansas. The boat will be tied up at the Veterans Memorial, Commercial and River Road, in the Veterans Memorial Park, part of the Riverfront Park complex. The keelboat and the re-enactors will be available to the public until October 13.

• October 13: The boat will move downriver from Atchison to the historic Lewis and Clark Riverfront Park at Kaw Point, a riverside park in Kansas City, Kansas. The start time for the public to visit is 5 p.m. Kaw Point is the area where the Lewis and Clark explorers camped from June 26 to June 29, 1804, at the confluence of the Missouri and Kaw rivers.

• October 14: The keelboat and re-enactors will be at the riverfront park at Kaw Point—but leaving at noon—and available to the public.

(KNZA)--A Sunday afternoon one-vehicle Jefferson County crash sent a McLouth teenager to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on Wellman Road, just south of K-16, around 1:45.

According to the KHP report, 16-year-old Gretchen Copeland was northbound when her SUV left the roadway. Her vehicle vaulted over K-16 and overturned into the north ditch.

Copeland was transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says she was not wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred.

(MSC News)--Governor Laura Kelly has signed a proclamation approving updated drought declarations for Kansas counties.

“Drought conditions have persisted across the state through the summer season, and Kansans are continuing to see the effects,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “With conditions expected to remain dry throughout the fall, Kansans should consider their water usage and take extra care to prevent wildfires.”

The drought declaration placed three counties into emergency status, 55 into warning status, and 47 into watch status. The action was recommended by Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office and Chair of the Governor's Drought Response Team. Owen says forecasts indicate that drought will persist and expand across most of the state through October and into the winter.

Among the counties placed into warning status are Brown, Marshall, Nemaha and Pottawatomie.

Atchison, Doniphan, Jackson, Jefferson and Leavenworth Counties remain under watch status.

Three south-central Kansas counties---Harvey, Reno and Sedgwick--have been placed into emergency status. Counties in the emergency stage are eligible for emergency water use from certain state fishing lakes and some federal reservoirs.

Owen says the Drought Response Team will continue to watch the situation closely and work to minimize the negative drought-induced effects on Kansans.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council approved moving forward with an engineering contract totaling $37,300 for an additional phase of the Natural Gas Improvement Project recommended by the Board of Public Works when they met Monday night.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum said the project will be between 25th and 28th Streets between Highland and Barada Streets. There are easements in the area but no open alleys and will require a large amount of boring as part of the project. A grant application has been submitted in an attempt to get some funding for the project.

Council members also passed a resolution authorizing the city to abate a nuisance home at 906 Stone Street, owned by Charley Rock and another family member who did not respond to notices from the city, so a clear title could not be obtained in order to allow the property to be donated to the Land Bank.

The City will go through the abatement project, demolish the house and then file a lien against the property.

In other business, the Council approved the closure of Lane Street from 19th Street to 26th Street on Halloween night between 5 and 9 p.m. for trick or treating.

(KLZA)--The Richardson County Commission declared a state of emergency due to a high-water event June 19, that caused severe damage to public and private property, disruption of utility service and the endangerment of the health and safety of county residents.

Emergency Management Agency Director Brian Kirkendall presented the emergency declaration to the Board.

The declaration will make it possible to apply to the State of Nebraska for assistance from the Governor's Emergency Fund to assist public organizations and individuals who have experienced financial loss.

in other business, 3rd District Commissioner Rick Karas presented correspondence from Stan and Joan Stalder of Humboldt which included a $200 donation for the Richardson County Sheriff's Department to purchase candy and other items for distribution to youth during community events in which the Department participate.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported the Road Department has begun the installation of new posts and stop signs purchased through the Nebraska Department of Transportation Statewide Stop Sign Program, which is 100% funded.

County Road crews have also started to clean out ditches.

(KLZA)--An October 24th preliminary hearing has been set for an Oregon, Missouri man charged in connection with a 1985 homicide.

The Mound City News reports the Holt County Prosecuting Attorney Robert Shepherd has filed a charge of 1st-degree murder against 62-year-old Kirby David in connection with murder of Peggy Horseman at the King Oil Station, in Mound City.

Horseman was the night clerk at the gas station when she was shot in the back of the head during the early morning hours of September 27, 1985.

David is currently serving a prison sentence with the Missouri Department of Corrections on a felony count of distribution of a controlled substance in a protected area.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Water Department is beginning its semi-annual fire hydrant flushing on Monday, October 14th.

This important maintenance work is expected to last for approximately three weeks and is essential for ensuring the proper function of our hydrants and maintaining high water quality throughout the city.

During the flushing process, residents may experience temporary low water pressure or slight discoloration in their water. If discoloration occurs, simply run your cold water tap for a few minutes until it clears. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we complete this routine maintenance.

For more information or questions, please contact the Utility Office at (402) 245-2851.

(KNZA)--Brown County will be getting new election equipment.

The Brown County Commission on a 2-1 vote Monday approved a quote from Omaha-based Election Systems and Software in the amount of $67,475 for the equipment, which includes eight ballot scanning devices and two electronic polls books.

Commissioner Bill Pollock cast the dissenting vote, saying he feels hand-counting ballots is the best way to go.

County Clerk Nikki Lee says the current machines were purchased in 2016 and the software is outdated.

Half the cost of the new equipment will be paid this year, and the remainder next year.

(KLZA)--A Nebraska Legislative District 1 candidate form is scheduled for Tuesday, October 15th at the Peru State College Performing Arts Center beginning at 6:00 p.m.

Candidates Bob Hallstrom from Syracuse and Dennis Schaardt from Steinauer won the primary election in May and seek the seat in the General Election in November.

Bob Engles of Auburn will serve as moderator for the event. Each candidate will be given two minutes to respond or answer a question. The forum will focus mostly on economic development.

The public is encouraged to attend the event that is sponsored by the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, Auburn Development Corporation, Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, Nebraska City Area Economic Development Corporation and Nebraska City Tourism & Commerce.

Hallstrom and Schaardt seek the seat currently held by Julie Slama who did not seek reelection after six years as Legislative District #1 Representative.

(KMZA)--This past Saturday, October 5th, a large brush and farmland fire occurred near Woodlawn in Nemaha County. At approximately 1:40PM, Nemaha County Dispatch received a call to report a field on fire, likely caused by a combine which was harvesting grain. The Sabetha Fire Department was dispatched to the fire north of Woodlawn, and quickly requested mutual aid from surrounding fire departments as the fire was within a quarter mile of a residence.

Due to the already complex situation, Nemaha County Emergency Management and Bryce Haverkamp with the Kansas Forest Service responded to the scene to begin to coordinate the response. Command was quickly set up near the fire with Assistant Chief Gary Elliott of the Sabetha Fire Department taking command of the firefighting portion of the incident. Aerial firefighting was requested through the Kansas Forest Service, and two Heinen Brother- aircraft were quickly on scene to aid in firefighting operations.

Firefighting operations continued for the next six hours or so. The fire ended up burning over 150 acres of crop land. Zero structures were lost, including two homes and various sheds and grain bins. Also, there were zero injuries to responders and residents.

Nine different fire departments were involved in the incident: Sabetha, Wetmore, Goff, Centralia, Seneca, Hiawatha, Fairview, Powhattan, and Morrill; including 79 fire fighters, the Nemaha County Sheriff and Dispatch, Sabetha Dispatch, Sabetha EMS, Kansas Forest Service, Kansas State Firefighters Association, various ag-related businesses providing fuel and bulk water for firefighting, and local landowners/farmers providing farming equipment to create firebreaks to stop the fire.

During the Woodlawn fire, two other large fires requiring mutual aid were affecting portions of the county in Bern and Corning's fire districts. With these three separate fires burning at the same time, all Nemaha County first responder agencies were working diligently to keep our county safe with heavily burdened personnel and equipment.

Nemaha County Emergency Management Director Eddie Aldrine wants to thank everyone involved in the response to the fires around the county on Saturday. Without their dedication to our county and their quick response to the incidents, all fires could have been much worse due to the Red Flag conditions.

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

The Brown County Commission approved a rate increase as presented by Landfill Director Don Pounds when they met Monday.

The rates to dispose of trash at the landfill will increase 13 percent. The new rate for in-county trash will be $63.50 a ton, while the new rate for out-of-county trash will be $68.50 a ton.

The rates for the disposal of construction and demolition material will increase 17 percent.

You can find a complete list of the new rates posted on the Brown County website. Click here

Commissioners say the rate adjustment is necessary due to continued increases in operational costs.

It's the second rate increase this year, with the last increase on May 1st.

The landfill is funded through user fees and not subsidized by tax dollars.

In a related matter, Commissioners were told there is not enough funding left in the solid waste budget to cover expenses through the end of the year and the budget will be need to be amended.

County payroll Clerk Barb Gradhorn said about $214,000 remains in the budget and an additional $200,000 should cover costs.

Commissioners approved amending the budget, with the additional funding to come from the Commissioners budget.

Pounds also reviewed with Commissioners a list of health and safety issues he says need to be addressed at the landfill.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man, accused of striking another man with a metal pipe in July, has pleaded no contest to charges.

According to court documents, 66-year-old Randy Mendez entered the plea Monday in Brown County District Court to charges of aggravated battery, misdemeanor theft and possession of marijuana.

In exchange for the plea, charges of burglary and possession of drug paraphernalia were dismissed.

Sentencing was set for November 4th.

Mendez remains in the Brown County Jail, held on a $50,000 bond.

(KAIR)--A full sized replica of the keelboat used by Lewis and Clark during their expedition of the western United States in 1804-1806, is on its way to Atchison.

That's part of the 121 mile voyage undertaken by members of the Lewis and Clark Discovery Expedition of Saint Charles, Missouri, aboard the keelboat, which. sometime Thursday, will arrive in Atchison, following a Wednesday night stop in Rulo, Nebraska.

Atchison's Karen Seaberg has worked closely with the team to see that their return trip to Atchison, 20-years-after their last visit which she also helped arrange, is a success. She spoke Monday during the Atchison City Commission's regular meeting, prior to approval being given to the local stayover.

The Keelboat is set to depart Atchison on Sunday, following its Friday through Sunday stop at the City's riverfront, near Veterans Memorial Park,. Friday, Seaberg told the Commission, is for Atchison students to visit, while Saturday will allow the most time for the public to visit the expedition.

Following Seaberg's presentation, the Commission granted unanimous approval to requests regarding the journey, including use of the riverfront area.

• October 10: The boat and crew will depart Rulo on October 10 and head for Atchison, Kansas.

• October 10-13: The keelboat will arrive on October 10 at Atchison, Kansas. The boat will be tied up at the Veterans Memorial, Commercial and River Road, in the Veterans Memorial Park, part of the Riverfront Park complex. The keelboat and the re-enactors will be available to the public until October 13.

• October 13: The boat will move downriver from Atchison to the historic Lewis and Clark Riverfront Park at Kaw Point, a riverside park in Kansas City, Kansas. The start time for the public to visit is 5 p.m. Kaw Point is the area where the Lewis and Clark explorers camped from June 26 to June 29, 1804, at the confluence of the Missouri and Kaw rivers.

• October 14: The keelboat and re-enactors will be at the riverfront park at Kaw Point—but leaving at noon—and available to the public.

(KNZA)--A Wednesday evening two-vehicle Holt County, Missouri wreck sent two people to the hospital.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 159 Highway, about one mile south of Big Lake, shortly after 6:15.

According to the Patrol report, a car driven by 66-year-old Charlie Gordon, of Rulo, Nebraska, was westbound when he crossed the center line and struck the driver's side of an eastbound semi-truck driven by 26-year-old Blake Wesley, of Onaga, Kansas.

Both driver's were transported by ambulance to Community Medical Center, in Falls City, Gordon with suspected serious injuries and Wesley with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says Gordon was wearing a seat belt, while Wesley was not, when the wreck occurred.

(KLZA)--A recent increase of pertussis, also known as whooping cough, has been detected in Nebraska.

A total of 51 cases have been reported in the state of Nebraska as of October 8. This number is about three times the number of pertussis cases last year at this time. Nebraska's increase in cases is similar to those reported nationally.

Early detection and treatment are important to prevent the spread of this contagious disease

Pertussis is an acute highly infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. Pertussis is only found in humans. The disease is particularly dangerous for infants and those with weakened immune systems.

Transmission occurs through respiratory droplets; even mild or asymptomatic individuals can spread the disease. Infants are often infected by family members who may be unaware they have the illness. Early symptoms of pertussis may appear like a common cold, including runny and/or stuffy noses, low-grade fevers, and mild coughs. However, one to two weeks after symptom onset, people may experience coughing fits which may persist from 1-10 weeks and may cause the high-pitched “whoop” sound characteristic of pertussis. Some people may also experience vomiting, feel fatigued after coughing fits, struggle to breathe, and more severe symptoms.

Babies younger than one year old are at greatest risk for getting whooping cough and having severe complications. However, people with certain pre-existing health conditions, like moderate to severe medically treated asthma are at high risk for developing a severe infection.

The best way to prevent pertussis is to get vaccinated. The Center for Disease Control recommends pertussis vaccination for everyone.

If you think you have been exposed to pertussis or have symptoms, call your health care provider. The CDC recommends pertussis vaccination for everyone.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council approved a resolution Monday night for loan forgiveness in an amount of $155,250 for Falls City Foods, LLC.

The amount is half of the the Community Development Block Grant awarded to the business. City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum pointed out that it was not city funding that went to the project. The City was simply the pass through entity to get the funds to Falls City Foods.

Falls City Foods met their requirements for the loan forgiveness which required creation of 10 full-time equivalent positions and maintaining their baseline of 20 full-time equivalent positions.

The Council also approved a resolution to purchase real estate at 1612 Fulton Street for the Rural Workforce Housing Fund Project which will move the title for the property from the Land Bank to the City.

A home will be built on the property and then sold.

(KAIR)--In the name of student safety, a new all way stop is coming to the intersection of Atchison's 3rd and Mound Streets, in the area of St. Benedict Catholic School.

Atchison City Manager Mark Westhoff, speaking during Monday's meeting of the Atchison City Commission, said the move comes at the request of staff from the school, due to concerns regarding the speed of vehicle traffic on 3rd Street through the 20-mph school zone, while only Mound Street traffic currently stops.

Prior to approval, an emotional City Commissioner, Bill Murphy, spoke in opposition, saying, due to personal experience with losing a sister in a traffic-related accident, he believes stop signs create a sense of false security for children:

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson was asked to weigh in, saying “…in reference to this stop sign, the four-way stop, has been to try to enhance safety, not necessarily ensure it. That- what we really have to look at, it- just another stet to try to enhance it.”

Westhoff then explained it's not just stop signs coming to the intersection, but other markings, including newly painted crosswalks, in the effort of increasing safety.

Once the motion for approval was made, and the vote called by Mayor La Rochelle Young, placement of the stop signs was approved 4 to 1, with Murphy casting the no vote.

(KAIR)--A happy ending in the search for a missing, 90-year-old Leavenworth man Wednesday.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, at the request of the Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office, issued a Silver Alert late Wednesday morning for Dwane Monroe, who had, at that time, not been seen since early Tuesday evening. Concerns arose, in part, due to him experiencing memory issues for the last few months.

Late Wednesday morning, Monroe had been located in Jefferson County, with the Leavenworth County Sheriff's Office reporting to the KBI that he was found on Kansas Highway 4, in Valley Falls.

Once he had been located, Monroe was returned safely to his home.

(KNZA)--A guardrail improvement project is underway on U.S. 36 in Doniphan County. The project spans about 4 miles, from the eastern city limit of Wathena to the Kansas/Missouri state line.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says lane reductions will be in place where crews are actively working. Traffic impacts should be minimal.

Work will take place Monday through Friday during daylight hours.

Bettis Asphalt & Construction Inc., of Topeka, is the contractor on the $527,000 project, which is expected to be complete in late November.

(KAIR)--An Atchison County UTV crash last year, that led to this year's termination of three Atchison County first responders, now results in a civil lawsuit filed against four connected to the crash, including one of the three former county employees.

The lawsuit was filed late last month in Atchison County District Court by Hannah Sparks, identified in court documents as a passenger in the UTV, which was operated by Jared Reiff, on September 2, of last year.

Reiff, of Nortonville, is named in the lawsuit, as is former Atchison County Emergency Management Director Wesley Lanter, of rural Atchison County, and Keith Locklin and Michael Lutz, both of Nortonville. The latter three, court documents allege, had involvement in the ownership, or possession, of the UTV, which crashed on a bridge near 250th and Graham Roads, in rural Atchison County. The crash, which happened near Effingham, left Sparks injured and hospitalized with what authorities at the time said were "severe, life threatening injuries." The court documents allege that Reiff, while operating the UTV, was intoxicated at the time of the crash.

Court documents say Sparks is seeking a jury trial to reach a resolution against the accused parties.

Lanter, who had served in his emergency management capacity from late 2010, until his termination in February of this year, was arrested in May following what Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie called "a comprehensive six-month investigation." which led to Lanter's arrest on two felony counts, aid and abet leaving the scene of an accident/failure to report an injury accident resulting in great bodily harm, and interference with law enforcement, as well as a single misdemeanor count of official misconduct.

Five others were also arrested in May, including Lanter's two former employees, Reiff, and one other. It's alleged that Reiff had fled the scene, through the assistance of the former county employees, to avoid arrest for being under the influence at the time of the crash.

(KNZA)--Doniphan County Health Department/Home Health Administrator Sheryl Pierce has announced plans to retire next year.

Pierce announced a tentative retirement date of May 1st, 2025, at Monday's Doniphan County Commission meeting.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, she will begin the recruitment process for a new Health Department/Home Health Administrator, with hopes of having someone hired prior to January 1st in order to train the individual and transition out by May 1st.

In other business, Northeast Kansas Environmental Services Health Specialist Martha Smith and Miller Trash Service Representatives met with the Commission to discuss operations of the Doniphan County Transfer Station at the end of Waste Management- contractual agreement on October 31st.

Smith presented the Commission with costs per ton from Z Force Transportation of Chicago Heights, IL and Hamm Quarries, of Perry to haul waste from the transfer station to landfills in Lawrence and Johnson County, Kansas. No action was taken.

County Clerk Peggy Franken, Smith and Miller Trash Service representatives will compile operating cost figures for the Commission's consideration on continuing to own the landfill and entering into a contractual operating agreement with Miller Trash Service.

(KNZA)--A former St. Joseph, Missouri middle school teacher will be sentenced next month after his guilty plea to a charge of first-degree sodomy.

KQ-2 TV reports 47-year-old Everett Harding faces a sentence of five years to life in prison when he is sentenced November 4th.

Harding entered the guilty plea September 16.

He was charged in connection with a May 7th incident at the Robidoux Middle School involving a 14-year-old girl. Investigators said Harding had a relationship with the girl that continued outside of school through electronic communications.

The St. Joseph School District Board of Education terminated his employment in June. Harding had taught math at Robidoux since 2022 .

Harding remains in the Buchanan County Jail, held without bond.

(KLZA)--Wednesday, October 9th is the final day for Missouri residents to register to vote in theh November 5, General Election.

Voter registration can be done online with the Missouri Secretary of State's office, at your County Clerk's office or by mail if your information is postmarked by October 9.

(KNZA)--A mill and overlay project is scheduled to begin on K-246 in Brown County Wednesday, Oct. 9, conditions permitting. The 5-mile project spans from the U.S. 75 junction to the western city limit of Morrill.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says traffic will be restricted to one lane and directed by a pilot car and flaggers where crews actively are working. Drivers should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes.

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

Hall Brothers Inc., of Marysville, is the prime contractor on the $1.3 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.gov or call 5-1-1.

(KLZA)--A total of 332 students and adults participated in the 2024 Southeast Area Land Judging competition last week held in Johnson County, Nebraska. The farm of Arlen & Andy Grotrian of Johnson hosted the event.

Participants from a record eighteen schools were brought together to test their skills in soil and land evaluation. The competition, designed to promote sustainable agriculture and expose youth to potential career opportunities, continues to grow in size and importance.

The land judging competition challenges students to gain a better understanding of soil structure and land evaluation. Students learn to recognize physical features of soil, determine land capability for crop production, and evaluate management practices needed for proper stewardship.

The event was a collaborative effort between the USDA NRCS, Nemaha NRD, and Nebraska- Association of Resources Districts.

State qualifying teams include:

1. Lewiston - Brody Wright, Cooper Swendener, Axel Seeman, Ashlynn Anderson

   2. Pawnee City - Dylan Layne, Tyler Tegtmeier, Madolyn Gottula, Taelyn Blecha

   3. Johnson County Central - Kayden Badertscher, Molly Weber, Riley Wellensiek, Stefani Peters

   4. Johnson-Brock - Ellanor Gerdes, Andrew Hodges, Taryn Ottemann, Austin Meyer

   5. Falls City - Bowdy Jones, Dayton Snethen, Malori Kuker, Taiylah Moore

In addition to the top qualifying teams, the top ten individuals will also advance to the state competition.

Individual state qualifiers are Bowdy Jones (1), of Falls City; Dylan Layne (2), of Pawnee City; Axel Seeman (3), of Lewiston; Ashlynn Anderson (4), Lewiston; Kayden Badertscher (5), of Johnson County Central. Samuel Thomas (6), of Meridian; Tyler Tegtmeier (7), from Pawnee City; Joely Weers, (8, from Diller-Odell; Madolyn Gottula (9), from Pawnee City and Taelyn Blecha (10) of Pawnee City.

With a record eighteen schools participating, we were able to qualify an additional school for the State competition on October 16, 2024.

During the contest, participants had 20 minutes to judge each of the four distinct locations

(KNZA)--The Kickapoo Tribe has announced the results of its annual election held on Monday.

The tribe, in a release, said it has elected a new leadership dedicated to serving the Kickapoo community and promoting its values.

Officers:

Chairperson: Gail Cheatham
Vice Chairperson: Priscilla Wakole
Secretary: Howard Allen (re-elected)
Treasurer: Grace Ross

Members:

Mark Kahbeah
Michelle Cadue (newly elected)
Sharon Doxtator (re-elected)

The tribe says it extends its gratitude to all candidates and voters who participated in the democratic process.

(KNZA)--Two Topeka men were arrested on drug possession charges following separate traffic stops in Jackson County.

Shortly after 10:30 Monday night, Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Ford Escape at 142nd Road on U.S. 75 Highway.

A probable cause search was conducted and alleged illegal drug contraband was found.

Morse said the driver, identified as 48-year-old Robert Uitts, was arrested for felony interference, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, and operating a vehicle without insurance.

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

Shortly before 8:30 last Friday morning, Morse said deputies conducted a traffic stop on a Mercedes E350 on 150th Road, just west of U.S. 75 Highway.

Deputies conducted a probable cause search and located alleged illegal drug contraband.

The driver, identified as 46-year-old Tyler Simmons, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

(KLZA)-- Plans for a chicken facility in southeast Nebraska move forward.

The Johnson County Planning and Zoning Commission approved the construction of eight chicken growing houses on a property located southwest of Sterling following a public hearing held when they met September 11.

The Tecumseh Chieftan reports it was the third public hearing on a permit application filed by Jim Erickson.

The special use permit is approved as long as the Erickson family provided an indoor storage facility for the dry litter compost and follow through with proper disposal of the litter.

Johnson County Commissioners will vote whether or not to approve the special use permit during their October 22nd meeting, during which another public hearing is scheduled to be held at 10 a.m.

The meeting is open to the public.

(KNZA)--Voters in the Jefferson County North School District will decide the fate of a $5.5 million bond issue for facility improvements during the November 5th general election.

The USD 339 Board of Education decided to place the issue before voters again after the bond proposal was defeated by a 19-vote margin during a special election in May.

The bond issue would fund a variety of improvements, ranging from school safety to HVAC and roof repairs, along with a Vo-Ag and Tech classroom addition.

School district officials say the bond projects are needed to improve safety and security, accessibility, classroom environments and building efficiency.

The proposal would require a 6.5 mill levy increase over a 30-year period to pay for the bonds and interest.

Informational meetings on the bond issue will be held Tuesday evening, October 8th at the Jeff Co North High School and Wednesday evening, October 9th at the elementary/middle school. Both meetings will start at 6:00.

(KAIR)--The Superintendent for Atchison's Public Schools earned special, surprise honors Monday, when it was announced she had been named the 2025 Kansas Superintendent of the Year.

Announcement of Dr. Renee Nugent's selection to receive the honor, as presented annually by the Kansas Superintendents Association, was made Monday morning, during an assembly in the Atchison Elementary School gymnasium.

Nugent, following the announcement, made brief remarks regarding her excitement at being named with the recognition, ending with the motto, "We are 409."

Nugent was among three finalists for the honor, which included Dr. Kellen Adams, of Leavenworth USD 453, and Heather Bohaty, of Derby USD 260.

According to the Superintendents Association, all three will be recognized at the Kansas 2025 Superintendent of the Year Gala to be held November 14 in Wichita.

As the 2025 Kansas Superintendent of the Year, Nugent's application will be submitted to the American Association of School Superintendents for consideration as the 2025 National Superintendent of the Year.

National finalists will be announced in January 2025 and the national winner will be announced at the 2025 National Conference on Education in March 2025.

(KLZA)-- 36-year-old Kandice Johnson of Pawnee City has been sentenced is Pawnee County District Court to a period of 6 - 12 years in prison on one count of sexual abuse by a school employee and one count of sexual assault. Both charges are felonies.

Johnson was working at the Pawnee City School as a para in early 2023 and engaged in sexual activity with two high school students who attended the Pawnee City School District.

Johnson exchanged explicit text messages and snapchat messages with the victims. The messages included nude photos of Johnson.

Johnson was arrested by the Pawnee County Sheriff's Office in March of 2023. As part of a plea agreement, an additional charge of sexual abuse was dismissed by the state.

(KLZA)-- Members of the Lewis & Clark Discovery Expedition of Saint Charles, Missouri are taking a 121 mile voyage on a full-sized replica of the keelboat used by Lewis and Clark during their exploration of the western U.S. from 1804 - 1806.

The venture started last week near the Lewis and Clark National Trail's Visitor Center at Omaha and will end in Kansas City, Kansas. Along the way stops are being made in Nebraska City, Rulo and Atchison, Kansas.

The schedule calls for the keelboat to sail from Riverview Marina State Recreation Area at Nebraska City on Monday, October 7 arriving in Rulo on Wednesday, October 9 around 5 - 6 p.m.

During the stop at Rulo, which will be an informal camp for the crew, people will be able to view the boat. Tents will be set up in the campground for the crew.

On Thursday the 10th, the crew will depart from Rulo, traveling downstream to Atchison, Kansas where it will be moored at the Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Park through October 13th.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Game and Parks is implementing a temporary ban on campfires at all Nebraska state park areas and wildlife management areas until further notice.

Camp stoves using liquid or gas fuel are permitted as they reduce the likelihood of ash or hot charcoal being discarded before they are extinguished.

Campground and WMA visitors should be mindful of changing conditions.

Stay tuned to local emergency managers and fire departments for any potential regional fire ban updates.

With dry conditions in mind, Game and Parks urges people to take the following precautions to avoid the risk of wildfire:

• Restrict driving to established roads and trails.

• Avoid parking vehicles in tall vegetation.

• Dispose of cigarettes and other flammable objects appropriately.

• Ensure your vehicle, trailers and other equipment are well-maintained.

• Make sure no chains are dragging from your vehicle.

• In the morning, before driving and while the exhaust/catalytic converter system is cool, inspect it to see no debris is clinging to it.

• Carry a fire extinguisher in the vehicle.

(KMZA)--The city of Seneca is moving forward with a GIS mapping project.

The Seneca City Council voted last week to enter into a contract with Surveying and Mapping LLC ( SAM) for the GIS mapping of city utilities at a cost of $128,746.

The Council took the action after hearing a brief presentation from a representative of the Austin,Texas-based company.

Bids were received from three companies, with SAM submitting the lowest bid.

The project is to be conducted next year.

In other business, the Council approved an ordinance changing the city- regulations regarding political signs to match state regulations.

Also City Administrator Steve Brooks told the Council he didn't like the plans that Dollar General presented him for a new store on Highway 36 on the west side of Seneca. Brooks said the plans show an entrance on the west side of the building and he said that placement was unacceptable. He said that he told them they would have to change their plans so the entrance is on the east side or the project would be “a no go”

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works has implemented mandatory water conservation protocol for Auburn and Peru water customers.

Drought emergency Contingent Plan Stage 2 is in effect.

Under this plan Odd / Even lawn water system is imposed. Residents with odd number addresses can water on odd numbered days and residents with even number addressed may water on even number days.

Outdoor water use, including lawn watering and car washing is restricted until after 9:00 p.m. and before 10:00 a.m.

There is to be no refilling of swimming pools. Wells used for irrigation within the city well head area protection area will have usage monitored and waste of water will be prohibited.

The Auburn BPW is asking Auburn and Peru water customers to please conserve water where you are able to.

Please be mindful of water usage until normal levels have been reached.

(KLZA)-- A rural Cook, Nebraska man died following a side-by-side UTV accident in a field near Cook that occurred on Tuesday, October 1.

Johnson County Attorney Ben Beethe noted in a news release that 68-year-old Paul H. Wilken was the lone occupant of the UTV. He was transported to the Johnson County Hospital by emergency responders and then transported to the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha, where he died on Wednesday.

Services for Paul Wilken of rural Cook will be Tuesday morning at 10 at the Grace Lutheran Church in Cook.

Paul Wilken is survived by his wife Diane; sons Matthew and Michael Wilken,

(KLZA)-- Fire fighters in southeast Nebraska were kept busy over the weekend battling field fires.

Saturday afternoon at 2 the Humboldt Volunteer Fire Department was called to a stubble and standing bean field fire north of Humboldt at 720 and 637 Roads.

Strong winds pushed the fire rapidly through corn stubble, more beans and finally grass.

In a social media post the Humboldt Volunteer Fire Department thanked the Auburn, Nemaha, Johnson and Stella fire departments for mutual aid in fighting the fire.

They also thanked area farmers who brought disc equipment to help stop the fire.

While still on the scene a call to 638 and 715 roads where a fire started by harvest equipment in a soybean field started. Humboldt and Stella Fire Departments initially responded to the call with the Dawson and Verdon fire fighters also responding. Once again area farmers with tillage equipment helped bring the fire under control.

Several hundred acres were involved in the two fires.

Wildfires that burned through cropland and pasture were also reported in Gage County.

A fire near Holmesville destroyed a farm structure at a rural residence along the north side of Highway 136 approximately five miles east of Beatrice. The same fire burned a power pole causing a power line to fall over part of the Holmesville Road.

Around 200 firefighters from multiple department were involved in battling four fires near Odell, one near Holmesville and a major fire north of Pickrell that involved a combine.

The picutre with this story was posted by the Humboldt Volunteer Fire Department.

(KAIR/KMZA)--A dry Saturday, accompanied by strong winds, led to the issuance of burn bans across the region, and to a number of fire calls, as a Red Flag warning was issued by the National Weather Service.

Volunteer firefighters in Atchison County were kept busy by grass fire flareups, due to the windy conditions. That included efforts from Lancaster Fire District #5, Effingham Fire District #2, and Walnut Fire District #3, according to weekend social media posts from the area fire teams.

Nemaha County was hit hard by Saturday's conditions when, according to the Sabetha Fire Department, "a very large field fire" was "caused when a combine sparked while operating" in the Woodlawn area.

According to the release, approximately 30+ firetrucks, a dozen other specialty pieces of equipment and many dozens of firefighters responded, including volunteers from Sabetha, Wetmore, Goff, Centralia, Seneca, Powhattan, Fairview, Hiawatha and Morrill, as well as Sabetha EMS, Kansas Forest Service, Nemaha County Emergency Management, police and sheriff deputies who responded to assist.

Heinen Brothers provided two crop duster planes who performed aerial water drops. Multiple farmers brought in tractors to disk the fields to help slow the fire's spread, while multiple heavy graders and bulldozers responded, as well as large tanker trucks from ag services that normally transport chemicals and fertilizers were filled with water to assist.

The last of the crews left the scene nearly 7 hours after being called.

The release notes that while hundreds of acres were burned, "all structures were saved from damage and nobody suffered serious injuries during the incident."

Conditions remain dry across the region, with fire-related authorities urging all residents to exercise extreme caution in all outdoor activities as the conditions remain.

(KNZA)--An early Saturday evening two-vehicle Jackson County crash claimed the life of a Topeka woman and left two other Topeka residents seriously injured.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 77-year-old Dianna Slavens was entering U.S. 75 Highway from a private drive about three miles south of Holton when she failed to yield to a northbound Toyota Rav4 and her Honda CR-V was struck broadside.

Slavens was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Toyota, 38-year-old Jamie Wells, and a passenger in the Honda, 89-year-old Alva Goff, Jr., were both transported to the Holton Community Hospital with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says all three occupants were wearing seat belts when the wreck occurred shortly after 5:00 Saturday evening.

(KNZA)--Multiple fire departments battled a large field fire in Nemaha County Saturday.

The Sabetha Fire Department, in a social media post, said the fire was caused when a combine sparked while operating near Woodlawn. Due to very high winds, the fire spread rapidly.

The fire burned hundreds of acres and threatened several homes and outbuildings.

Fortunately, the Department said all structures were saved from damage and nobody suffered serious injuries during the incident.

Volunteer firefighters from Sabetha, Wetmore, Goff, Centralia, Seneca, Powhattan, Fairview, Hiawatha and Morrill responded.

Heinen Brothers provided two crop duster planes who performed aerial water drops. In addition, multiple farmers brought in tractors to disk the fields to help slow the fire's spread. Multiple heavy graders and bulldozers responded, as well as large tanker trucks from ag services that normally transport chemicals and fertilizers, which were filled with water to assist.

The last of the crews left the scene nearly 7 hours after being called.

(KMZA)--A Friday evening single-vehicle crash in northwest Kansas claimed the life of Blue Rapids teenager.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says killed in the crash on a Thomas County road near Colby was 19-year-old Emma Brungardt.

According to the KHP report, Brungardt was a passenger in a pickup that left the roadway and struck a tree row.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 18-year-old driver from Colorado and four other passengers, ranging in age from 18 to 20, were transported to a hospital for treatment of possible injuries.

The Patrol says all six occupants were wearing seat belts when the crash occurred shortly before 9:45 Friday evening.

Brungardt was currently a student at Colby Community College, and was the winner of the 2023 Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas competition.

The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant issued the following statement in a social media post:

"The Miss Rodeo Kansas Pageant would like to express our deepest condolences to the family of Emma Brungardt, our beautiful Miss Teen Rodeo Kansas 2023. Emma was a true gem and horsewoman who embodied what it meant to be a rodeo queen, always going above and beyond what was expected of her. We will miss her contagious smile and one in a million personality. Please keep her family and friends in your prayers as they navigate through this unimaginable loss."

(KLZA)--Richardson County Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2025 Western Star semi-truck when they met Wednesday at a cost of $159,250 as priced through the State of Nebraska contract. The truck purchase will be from Truck Center Companies of Omaha.

The Board also received a bid for $161,768 through a Sourcewell contract for a 2025 Mack truck.

Commissioners voted to terminate an agreement with GeoComm, Inc. which had been executed in May for 911 mapping software.

Commissioners also received notice the cost for jail inmate meals provided by Consolidated Correctional Foodservice will be increasing by 4%. The per meal price is based on the number of inmates.

Commissioners did conduct the quarterly jail inspection and found the facility to be in good order. The State Jail Inspection was also conducted Wednesday.

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Public Service Commission has approved nearly $5.5 million in funding for the construction of 10 cellular towers through the Nebraska Universal Service Fund Dedicated Wireless Fund Program.

UScellular will receive $5,493,500 in grant funding support to build 10 tower sites which will include sites near the communities of Sterling and Plymouth.

UScellular has committed to completing construction of the towers

within 24 months of approval of the funding.

The PSC allocated just over seven million dollars in Wireless Fund Program Support for the 2024 funding year. The remaining dedicated support allocated but not awarded will be rolled into the next wireless fund grant cycle.

(KLZA)--The state of Nebraska has issued a health alert for for Kirkman's Cove Lake in Richardson County and Iron Horse Trail Lake in Pawnee County due to the presence of toxic blue-green algae .

That word came Friday in a release from the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy.

Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water.

Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake.

People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities.

(KLZA)--Richardson County Commissioners approved the purchase of a 2025 Western Star semi-truck when they met Wednesday at a cost of $159,250 as priced through the State of Nebraska contract. The truck purchase will be from Truck Center Companies of Omaha.

The Board also received a bid for $161,768 through a Sourcewell contract for a 2025 Mack truck.

Commissioners voted to terminate an agreement with GeoComm, Inc. which had been executed in May for 911 mapping software.

Commissioners also received notice the cost for jail inmate meals provided by Consolidated Correctional Foodservice will be increasing by 4%. The per meal price is based on the number of inmates.

Commissioners did conduct the quarterly jail inspection and found the facility to be in good order. The State Jail Inspection was also conducted Wednesday.

(KAIR)--The investigation into the suspected arson of an Atchison structure Friday morning has led to the arrest of an Atchison woman.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 50-year-old Angela Dugger was arrested about six-hours after the morning fire, and taken into custody for aggravated arson.

No injuries occurred as a result of the fire, which Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar says was reported just after 6:00 Friday morning, with the caller saying fire was climbing the outside wall of the structure, located at 1621 South 6th Street, which online maps show to be the location of Harris HVAC Company.

An Atchison Police Officer in the area of the fire was able to, Weishaar says, "extinguish the bulk of the fire with a fire extinguisher from his patrol vehicle." Arriving firefighters then finished extinguishing the fire, which Weishaar says, "appeared to have started at the base of the outside wall" thorough the use of what investigators are calling "evidence of accelerants."

Investigators Friday morning, including those from the Atchison Police and Fire Departments, as well as the State Fire Marshals Office, suspected arson early in their investigation, leading to the arrest of Dugger.

According to Wilson, she faces aggravated arson because a 60-year-old man was asleep inside the structure at the time the fire was allegedly set, but escaped injury.

The investigation is ongoing.

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

A Sabetha company has earned the 2024 Kansas Governor's Exporter of the Year Award.

KSI Conveyors received the award Thursday as part of the Kansas Department of Commerce- 2024 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards ceremony in Great Bend.

The company, which was among three finalists for the award, was praised for its commitment to quality, service, and sustainable growth.

A record 346 businesses, organizations, and individuals were nominated in nine categories for this year- To the Stars: Kansas Business Awards.

The Governor- Exporter of the Year award has been given annually to a Kansas company for more than three decades. The award brings statewide recognition for their exporting efforts and showcases them as role models of exporting success in Kansas.

KSI is a leader in the design and manufacturing of conveyors, seed treatment systems and automation.

The family-owned business was founded nearly 25 years ago. KSI has operating offices and manufacturing facilities in Kansas and Illinois, as well as regional representation, strategic partnerships, and offices throughout the Midwestern United States, Canada, and South America.

(KNZA)--A new Jackson County treasurer has been appointed.

The Holton Recorder reports members of the Jackson County Republican Precinct Committee during a special convention last week unanimously appointed Lisa Miller, of Holton, to the position. Miller was the only nominee.

Current treasurer Linda Gerhardt, a Republican, is retiring from the position on October 31st after 25 years in office.

Miller will serve the remainder of Gerhardt's term, which expires in October 2025.

The treasurer's position will be included on the November 5th general election ballot. Miller is the only person who filed for the position.

She has worked in the treasurer's office for 28 years.

(KNZA)--Plans for accessibility improvements at the Doniphan County Courthouse move forward.

A hearing was held at Monday's Doniphan County Commission meeting on the county's plans to seek a Community Development Block Grant through the Kansas Department of Commerce for an ADA modification project.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, no public comment was received.

On hand to discuss the grant application were representatives of the MO-Kan Regional Council.

The project would add an ADA accessible ramp to the south side of the courthouse building. The new ramp would replace the current electrical lift, which has faced technical and weather-related challenges. The project would allow individuals to access the courthouse independently.

The total project cost is estimated at $333,370, with the grant request for $200,000. If the grant is awarded, the county would provide a 50 percent match or $166,685.

(KLZA)--Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) wants to remind equipment operators to keep a focus on safety around power lines as they head out to the fields for harvest.

When large equipment gets too close to a power line, electricity can arc to the equipment, leaving the equipment damaged with the potential to cause serious or fatal injuries to the operator.

If a piece of equipment is in contact with a power line, call 911 or your local power provider and remain inside the vehicle until help can arrive and de-energize the line. When a power line is touching a vehicle, it can electrify both the vehicle and the ground in the surrounding area. If a fire forces you to exit the vehicle, then do so by jumping away from the vehicle, landing on two feet, and shuffling as far away from the area as possible.

NPPD encourages farmers to review the following safety precautions before entering the fields to begin harvest operations.

Each day, review all farm activities and work practices that will take place around power lines and remind all workers to take precautions.

Know the location of power lines, and when setting up the farm equipment, be at least 20 feet away from them. Contact your local public power provider if you feel this distance cannot be achieved.

Use caution when raising augers or the bed of a grain truck or wagon. It can be difficult to estimate distance, and sometimes a power line is closer than it looks. For large equipment, use a spotter to ensure the equipment stays a safe distance from the line.

Always adjust portable augers or elevators to their lowest possible level - under 14 feet - before transporting them. Variables like wind, uneven ground, or shifting weight can cause unexpected results.

You can ore information on farm safety at NPPD.com

(KLZA)--The Nemaha Natural Resources District has issued a burn ban until further notice at all of the District's recreation areas due to dry conditions.

Included in the burn ban are Kirkman's Cove, Iron Horse Trail, Wirth Brothers Lake, Prairie Owl, Duck Creek Recreation Area and along the Steamboat Trace Trail.

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) reminds the

public that is it unlawful to place any signs, including political campaign signs, within state highway and interstate right-of-way.

The ROW consists of intersections, medians, entrance and exit ramps, sidewalks, ditches and lands that make up the area bordering each roadway.

NDOT maintenance crews will remove signs that are improperly placed within the state highway right-of-way. These signs will be stored for a brief time and sign owners can coordinate with local district offices to reclaim removed signs.

Additional regulations governing political campaign sign placement and size may be set by each county and/or municipality.

The public is advised to reference local regulations for questions regarding a specific location and to keep in mind that violation of local sign ordinances may result in a fine.

Those needing further information concerning the boundaries of state right-of-way corridors or seeking sign permit information should contact their local district permit officer, in District 1 call the Lincoln office at (402) 471-0850. Inquiries may also be made to NDOT- Right-of-Way Division office at (402) 479-4463.

(KNZA)--A Fairview man was arrested on multiple drug charges following the execution of a search warrant Tuesday evening.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, in a release, says the Sheriff's Office drug task force served the warrant at 111 Flora Street, in Fairview.

As a result, 45-year-old James Parr was arrested on charges of possession of
methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

(KAIR)--An Atchison educator has been awarded for his work on behalf of safety efforts for teenaged drivers.

Tyler Lueckenhoff is the District Activities Director for Atchison's USD 409, but is also the upfront/emcee and a workshop presenter for the youth program, TRACTION , which stands for "Teens Taking Action to Prevent Traffic Crashes."

According to the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety, the program "is a youth traffic safety leadership training program that has been successful in Missouri the past 30 years and has saved the lives of thousands of people on Missouri- roadways," by empowering "youth to take an active role in promoting safe driving habits and making positive change within their schools and communities," as the program "provides teens with the tools necessary to create an action plan on how they will successfully implement projects and activities to make their schools and communities a safer place to live and travel."

Luekenhoff, according to the Atchison public school district, was serving as emcee for the Missouri Highway Safety and Traffic Conference awards, held late last month in Columbia, Missouri, when he was surprised to receive the Tempe Humphrey Award, which recognizes an individual or group who has focused efforts on younger drivers.

In a release regarding Luekenhoff's honor, the roadway safety coalition calls him "a true leader and fantastic role model inside and outside of TRACTION," saying "he has educated thousands of teens over the past 20 years and his passion for highway safety in Missouri is unmatched."

According to the release, Luekenhoff, now in his 13th year at USD 409, is originally from Jefferson City, Missouri, and first came through the TRACTION program as a participant his sophomore year of high school in 2004.

(KAIR)--A settlement agreement has been approved regarding the Kansas Gas Service rate case.

A release says the Kansas Corporation Commission, Thursday, approved the agreement, which means the $58.1 million net revenue increase originally requested by KGS was reduced to $35 million. The bill impact to residential customers, with average usage, is an increase of approximately $3.83 per month or $46.02 per year. The new rates will take effect on November 1.

According to the release, Kansas Gas Service withdrew its proposal to implement two different rate structures based on high or low usage. That proposal, which was opposed by KCC staff and the Citizens Utility Ratepayer Board, would have resulted in a residential rate increase of approximately $6.71 per month for customers using less service per month, or $9.48 more per month for those residential customers using more.

A proposal to implement a performance-based ratemaking mechanism to annually adjust rates was also withdrawn by KGS after facing opposition from the two entities.

In its March application to increase rates, KGS noted it had been five years since its last rate case and the company had invested $600 million in capital expenditures necessary to provide safe and reliable service to customers.

In testimony filed in support of the settlement approved Thursday, KCC staff stated that the agreed upon revenue increase strikes the proper balance between KGS’ desire for reasonable assurances that it will meet its financial obligations and the need to keep rates as low as possible for customers while still providing reliable natural gas distribution service.

(KLZA)--Fall has arrived, which means deer and other wild animals are on the move as temperatures cool and nights become longer. Most deer strikes with vehicles occur during October and November and between the hours of 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Missouri Department of Transportation reminds motorists to be prepared for the sudden appearance of wild animals on Missouri roadways throughout the fall months.

“Deer increase their movements during the breeding season, which begins in October and peaks in mid-November,” said Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) Deer Biologist Jason Isabelle. “Because of this, motorists should be especially cautious when driving this time of year.”

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, Missouri has consistently ranked 10th to 15th in the country for collisions involving deer each year. In 2023, Missouri drivers experienced 3,591 crashes involving deer. One deer strike occurred approximately every 2 hours and 30 minutes in the state. In these crashes, there were four fatalities and 420 people were injured.

Rural areas are not the only places where vehicle strikes occur. Deer are often in groups, even in populated areas.

Here are some tips for staying alert:

• Stay on guard after a close call or when you see a single deer, as there are likely more.

• To avoid hitting a deer, always be cautious and regularly scan both sides of the roadway.

• Watch for the reflection of deer eyes from vehicle headlights and slow down so you can more easily react to their presence.

• Never swerve to avoid animals in the road, as it can cause loss of vehicle control, resulting in serious injury or death.

According to Missouri Law, an individual who has struck and killed a deer with their vehicle may claim the deer carcass if written authorization to possess the deer is granted by an MDC agent. The Wildlife Disposition Form is free, but MDC must be contacted to obtain the permit.

“No one should ever jeopardize their safety by attempting to remove an animal in a high-traffic area. Instead, contact MoDOT- customer service line at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636),” said MoDOT State Maintenance Engineer Darin Hamelink. “Crews will address any animal or debris that poses a safety hazard, meaning the item is in the driving lanes. Crews will safely drag the large animal debris to the outer portion of the grassy roadside, outside any active drainage ditch or channel.”

If a deer is located on the shoulder, MoDOT will address the deer during normal weekday work hours. MoDOT crews are not called out after hours to remove an item unless it is a road safety hazard in a driving lane. MoDOT does not employ any specialized crews assigned to remove dead animals from roadways or contract out any roadkill removal. If a deer is struck along a state-maintained road and is completely off the roadway, MoDOT will not pick it up unless it impedes mail delivery or is in a neighborhood, especially at or near a bus stop.

For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org.

(KLZA)--County election offices in Nebraska are mailing early voting ballots to voters who completed early voting applications and fulfilled the new voter ID requirement.

County election offices are reporting that the majority of voters are following the voter ID requirement. Voters have two options to fulfill the new voter ID requirement during the early voting application process: Voters can write their Nebraska driver- license or state ID number on their early voting application, or they can submit their early voting application with a photocopy of their acceptable ID.

Election workers are assisting voters who have not properly submitted their early voting applications.

Registered Nebraska voters can still request an early voting ballot by sending their early voting application to their county election office. October 25 is the last day a voter can request an early voting ballot be sent to them.

Early voting ballots are due back to the voter- respective county election office by the close of polls, which will be 8 p.m. Central Time on Election Day, November 5.

County election offices will not accept late ballots, even if the postmark date is before the election.

Voters must present an acceptable photo ID before voting. Acceptable IDs include, but are not limited to:

A Nebraska driver- license, a Nebraska state ID, a U.S. passport, a Military ID, a Tribal ID, Hospital, intermediate care facility, assisted-living facility or nursing home record, Nebraska political subdivision ID which includes a state, county, city, school, or a Nebraska college or university ID from a public or private college.

The ID must have the voter- name and photo. IDs can be expired. The new law does not require Nebraska voters to re-register to vote.

Nebraskans can get a free state ID from the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles. If the person was born in Nebraska and needs a free certified copy of their Nebraska birth certificate to get a free state ID, they can contact the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services. A birth certificate is not a valid form of voter ID.

October 7 - First day for early voting at county election offices.

October 18 - Deadline to register to vote online, by mail, at a state agency, via deputy registrar or via personal agent.

October 25 - Deadline to register to vote at county election offices (by 6pm local time).

October 25 - Deadline to request an early voting ballot be mailed.

November 4 - Last day to vote early at a county election office.

November 5 - Election Day. Polls open at 8:00 a.m. Central Time and close at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. Early ballots are due back to county election offices by the close of polls.

(KLZA)--Missouri 6th District Congressman Sam Graves from Tarkio has introduced the "Rails to Trails Landowner Rights Act" to insure landowners get a voice.

In his weekly report Graves said that landowners were told their land, taken for use to build railroad lines would be returned to them when the railroad was abandoned. However, much of the land is not returned to the landowner. Instead, Congress authorized the federal government to take the land from the railroads and give it to others to turn into a walking trail.

Graves says this practice unconstitutionally takes land away from the private landowner without just compensation, creating a new set of headaches for them. Graves notes that tucked away in a Biden-Harris Administration so-called "infrastructure" bill was a provision to give the federal government the authority to overrule state permitting decisions for electrical transmission lines, giving them all they need to greenlight projects to get "green-energy" from the West to the East Coast with no benefit to Missouri.

Graves introduction of the "Protecting Farmers from the Green New Deal Act" is designed to repeal these provisions, return the permitting decisions to states, and protect the rights of Missouri landowners.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission has approved a 2025 county budget that calls for total expenditures of $16 million and maintains about the same tax levy.

The Commission took the action Monday.

The Commission held a public hearing on the budget at their September 16 meeting but decided to delay approval at that time to see if they could get the budget closer to the revenue neutral rate.

The original budget proposal had called for a nearly 1.8 mill levy increase.

The adopted 2025 budget contains an estimated tax rate of 36.090 mills, which is .078 mills below the revenue neutral rate.

The budget calls for the county to collect nearly $8.5 million in local tax revenue, which is an about $15,000 decrease over this year.

(KAIR)--A Doniphan County teenager is missing, and the search to locate her is underway, with public assistance sought in that effort.

17-year-old Tasia Murray was last seen September 29, according to Kansas Missing and Unsolved, with the organization saying it's believed she may be attempting to reach Champaign, Illinois.

Tasia Murray is described as having red, or auburn, hair and green eyes, weighing 180 to 200 pounds, and standing 5-feet-10 to 6-feet tall.

She is considered a missing/endangered runaway.

Anyone with information related to the whereabouts of Tasia Murray is asked to contact the Doniphan County Sheriff's Office, at 785-985-3711, or the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, at 785-296-4017.

(KLZA)--Missouri 6th District Congressman Sam Graves from Tarkio has introduced the "Rails to Trails Landowner Rights Act" to insure landowners get a voice.

In his weekly report Graves said that landowners were told their land, taken for use to build railroad lines would be returned to them when the railroad was abandoned. However, much of the land is not returned to the landowner. Instead, Congress authorized the federal government to take the land from the railroads and give it to others to turn into a walking trail.

Graves says this practice unconstitutionally takes land away from the private landowner without just compensation, creating a new set of headaches for them. Graves notes that tucked away in a Biden-Harris Administration so-called "infrastructure" bill was a provision to give the federal government the authority to overrule state permitting decisions for electrical transmission lines, giving them all they need to greenlight projects to get "green-energy" from the West to the East Coast with no benefit to Missouri.

Graves introduction of the "Protecting Farmers from the Green New Deal Act" is designed to repeal these provisions, return the permitting decisions to states, and protect the rights of Missouri landowners.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff's Office has release the office's statistics for the month of September, 2024.

Sheriff John Merchant is also is reminding residents that with harvest in full swing, to use extra precaution on the roadways. Avoid passing slow moving vehicles unless you are positive you have ample room to do so safely. Use caution cresting hills, especially on blacktop or country roads.

Also, he is asking farmers to notify law enforcement of any suspicious activity in or around their farms. Merchant says thieves will take any opportunity to steal fuel, tools or anything of value that is convenient.

DISPATCH CALLS:

911 Calls 224

non-emergent calls 2561

TOTAL 2785 averages to more than 92 calls per day.

DEPUTIES RESPONDED TO THE FOLLOWING:

ACCIDENTS 14

ALARM CALLS 2

ANIMAL CALLS 10

ASSIST OTHER AGENCY 24

BUILDING CHECK 1

COMMUNITY POLICING 58

CRIMINAL THREAT 1

CRIMINAL TRESPASS 2

DISTURBANCE 2

DRONE DEPLOYMENT 1

ELECTRONIC SOLICITATION 1

DUI/DRUG INVESTIGATION 12

FIRE ASSIST 3

FORGERY 1

ILLEGAL DUMPING 1

MEDICAL 3

MISC 10

OFFENDER REGISTRATION 35

PEDESTRIAN CHECK 7

PROPERTY LOST/FOUND 2

PROTECTION ORDER VIOLATION 1

DRIVING COMPLAINTS 7

SERVICE TO CITIZEN 1

SEX OFFENSES 1

SHOTS FIRED 2

SUBPOENA SERVICE 113

SUSPICIOUS PERSON OR VEHICLE 8

THEFT 1

TOWN CHECKS 354

TRAFFIC STOPS 249

TRANSPORTS 7

VEHICLE CHECKS & LOCKOUTS 38

VIN's 13

WARRANTS 25

WELFARE CHECKS 8

OVER 1010 INCIDENTS WHICH AVERAGE TO OVER 33 INCIDENTS PER DAY.

BROWN COUNTY JAILERS BOOKED IN 33 INMATES IN THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER

(KAIR)--A St. Joseph, Missouri woman is charged with child kidnapping.

KQ2-TV, citing court documents, reports that 51-year-old Deann Cluck was in the parking lot of a local business when she allegedly walked up to a stroller, unbuckled two children, and began walking off with both victims. The mother of the victims wrestled the children away from Cluck to get them back.

Court documents state that neither the victims or the victims parents know Cluck.

According to the probable cause statement, Cluck refused to cooperate with officers as they attempted to arrest her.

Cluck is being held without bond.

(KNZA)--Highland Community College celebrated the inauguration of Dr. Vincent Bowhay as the 45th president of the institution during a ceremony last Friday in Culbertson Auditorium.

Bowhay was installed by HCC Board of Trustees Chairman Thomas Smith.

He took over as President on July 1st, replacing Deborah Fox who retired June 30th after serving as HCC President for five years.

Bowhay was selected for the position by the HCC Board of Trustees earlier this year following a nationwide search.

He has more than than a decade of experience in higher education and assessment consultation.

Before coming to Highland, Bowhay served as the 16th president of Independence Community College. Prior to that, he served in student affairs roles at Missouri Western State University and Fort Hays State University.

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will hold its annual fall Citywide Cleanup Day on Saturday, October 5th.

City residents can take their unwanted items to the city public works property at 912 Hiawatha Avenue for disposal free of charge from 8:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon.

Recycling will not be available this year.

Each household will be allowed one pickup load, one carload or one single-axle trailer load. No contractors are allowed and the city reserves the right to refuse any load. Proof of residency will be required.

Unacceptable items include household trash, leaves, grass clippings, tires, paint, oil, gas, hazardous materials and any material containing Freon except appliances.

(KLZA)--No one from the public attended the Falls City Council's public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget Monday afternoon at City Hall.

Following the hearing during which City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum provided information on various aspects of the proposed budget, the Council approved the budget on a 5-0 vote.

Mayor Mark Harkendorff, Council members Don Ferguson, Kaylie Ractliffe and Carla Rhodd were not in attendance for the special meeting. The special meeting had to be held because figures for the City insurance package were not supplied until after the Council's regular second meeting of the month on September 16th.

The Council approved an operating budget of $24,881,677 which is $870,466 or four percent higher than the previous years budget. The property tax request for Falls City property owners will increase one-percent to $782,750 which is $9,090 more than last year.

The property tax levy will actually be four-percent lower than the previous year at 40.4161 cents per $100 of assessed valuation.

The valuation of property in Falls City increased six-percent this year to $193,672,997.

The Council did approved the transfer of $800,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund to the General Fund for Fiscal Year 2024-25.

During his review of the proposed budget Nussbaum noted that $50 thousand was included for the Housing Abatement / Demolition Program and $15 thousand to continue the sidewalk improvement program.

Other noteworthy details include plans to eliminate the second and third shifts at the Falls City Power Plant but keeping the number of employees at the current number of 6. There usually are eight employees. The decrease in workers will be accomplished through attrition.

There are also plans to fund two additional employees for the water distribution crew.

Of the total disbursements and transfers in the adopted budget, $3,430,192 will go toward Streets and Public Safety which includes Police and Fire.

(KLZA)--U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts has announced his constituent casework staff will be hosting Mobile Office Hours around the state.

At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts’ staff will be on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them get in touch with the correct people.

Ricketts staff will be in the local area:

Monday, October 7, 2024

In Richardson County at the Falls City Library and Arts Center at 1400 Stone Street from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m.

In Nemaha County at the Auburn Senior Center at 1101 J Street from 1 - 2 p.m..

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

In Otoe County at the Syracuse Public Library at 489, 5th Street, from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Pawnee County

At the Pawnee City Public Library at 735 8th Street from 1 - 2 p.m.

Johnson County

At the Johnson County Courthouse, 351 Broadway Street in Tecumseh from 3 - 4 p.m.

(MSC News)--Kansas total tax collections have exceeded expectations, with September generating $1.02 billion. That is $8.0 million above the estimate. Total tax collections are up 3.2% from September 2023.

Individual income tax collections were $468.1 million, which is $68.1 million above the estimate and up 19.8% from September 2023.

Corporate income tax collections were $228.1 million, which is $61.9 million below the estimate and down 12.8% from September 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $296.4 million, which is $4.4 million, or 1.5% above the estimate, but down $8.7 million, or 2.8%, from September 2023.

(KAIR)--An Oskaloosa high school teacher has earned special honors, named Kansas State Grange Teacher of the Year.

That happened last weekend, during the 153rd Grange Convention, held in Gardner, KS, where history teacher Rod Stottlemire learned he had been selected for the award.

Stottlemire now advances to the national competition, with a release from Oskaloosa USD 341 saying that Stottlemire, nominated for the honor by Pleasant View Grange #1459, was recognized for his 35-years of teaching, which includes 25-years spent at Oskaloosa.

According to the Grange, Stottlemier "embodies the values of the Grange by promoting personal growth, leadership, and community involvement in his students."

The Grange, founded in 1867, is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, fraternal organization that advocates for Rural America and Agriculture.

Stottlemire, a release says, is "known for his dedication to both students and community," pioneering the school- Veterans Day Assembly, where his history students plan and lead the entire event, fostering leadership and civic responsibility. In addition to his classroom success, his extracurricular activities were also noted, as Stottlemire has coached football, basketball, and baseball, achieving over 200 career wins as Head Baseball Coach, with the release saying his "coaching fosters teamwork, discipline, and perseverance in his student-athletes."

Now that he's earned the state honor, Stottlemire's nomination advances to the National Grange Teacher of the Year competition, to be held, next month, in Bettendorf, Iowa.

(KAIR)--The Superintendent of Schools for Atchison's USD 409 is in the running to become "Superintendent of the Year."

Dr. Renee Nugent becomes one of three finalists vying for the award, presented annually by the Kansas School Superintendents' Association, whose website explains that it's "designed to recognize the outstanding leadership of active, front-line superintendents," who have at least five years of experience and are a member of the association, commonly known as KSSA. The winners are selected based on leadership for learning, communication, professionalism, and community involvement.

Nugent is competing with another local area superintendent, Dr. Kellen Adams, of Leavenworth USD 453, while the third finalist is Heather Bohaty, Superintendent for Derby USD 260.

The winner of the award will be named Monday.

Nugent has served in the role of leadership for the Atchison Public Schools since 2019.

It's fall cleanup time in the city of Horton.

There will be dumpsters in the vacant lot south of City Hall at the corner of 1st Avenue East and 7th Street, beginning Friday evening, October 4th until the morning of Monday, October 14, 2024.

Acceptable items include furniture, carpet, empty paint cans, plastic, mattresses, wood, cabinets, tables, windows, demolished buildings, tubs, toilets, sinks, and shingles. There will not be anyone on site to assist with moving items, so please plan accordingly.

Please place metal items on the ground, as they will be removed separately.

Items that will NOT be accepted are antifreeze, freon, herbicides, pesticides, household cleaners, paint & paint products; spray paint, alkaline and Ni-Cad batteries, mercury, used oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, gasoline, leaves, grass clippings and household trash.

Additionally, NO tires will be accepted.

This annual Fall Cleanup is sponsored by the City of Horton and Hamilton Recycling for Horton residents. If you have any questions, call City Hall at 785-486-2681 extension option 1.

(KLZA)--An October 9th preliminary hearing is set for a 51-year-old Beatrice, Nebraska man facing charges of second degree murder, use of a firearm to commit a felony and two counts of kidnapping.

Christopher Milke was arraigned Friday in a Gage County courtroom on the charges in connection with the September 8 death of 52-year-old Tammy Leslie in Beatrice. He is also accused of holding his 19-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son hostage in the home after allegedly killing their mother.

Milke is being held without bond. If convicted he faces a period of 25 years to life in prison.

(KMZA)--A series of town hall meetings will be held in Nemaha County during the month of October on the upcoming half-cent sales tax renewal to fund health care services in the county.

The sales tax renewal will be on the November 5 general election ballot.

Hospital officials will provide information on the sales tax, which was initially approved by voters in April 2015 for ten years and must be approved by voters again to continue for an additional ten years.

Proceeds from the sales tax are divided between the county's two hospitals, with 55 percent going to the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca and 45 percent to the Sabetha Community Hospital. The funding is used by the hospitals for capital improvements, equipment upgrades and general operating expenses.

The first town hall meeting will be held Wednesday evening, October 2 at the Corning Community Center.

Additional meetings are planned for:

October 9th at the Centralia Community Center

October 15 at the Sabetha City Hall

October 16 at the Bern Community Center

October 30th at the HCC Western Center in Baileyville.

All the meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m.

In addition, a lunch-and-learn on the hospital sales tax will be held October 9th from 11:30 to 1:00 at the Meadowlark Extension Office, in Seneca.

(KAIR)--Atchison Police are seeking a missing handgun.

That follows the theft of the weapon, which police say was stolen from a parked vehicle in the 500 block of Spring Street.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the theft occurred sometime Saturday night.

Anyone with information regarding the missing handgun are urged to contact Atchison Police at 913-367-4323.

(KAIR)--A 69-year-old Olathe man, wanted for child-related sex crimes in Atchison, is now in custody.

That word comes in a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, who says Carlos Rondon, on Thursday evening, was arrested by the Olathe Police Department on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

According to the release, the charges are the result of an Atchison Police Department investigation that began on July 30, of this year, involving three victims that were under the age of 14 at the time the alleged crimes were committed, over an eight-year period in Atchison, which Wilson says was between 2012 and 2020.

Following his arrest last week, Rondon was booked into the Johnson County, Kansas Jail. His bond is set at one million dollars.

(KNZA)--The Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas has announced that tribal member Aaliyah Negonsott Raines has been selected for a highly competitive one-year internship program with the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League.

The Tribe, in a release, said the remarkable achievement highlights Raines dedication, talent, education and commitment to both her professional growth and community.

The program offers interns firsthand experience in various departments, including marketing, operations and player engagement. As one of the select few chosen from a nationwide pool of applicants, Raines will gain invaluable insights into the inner workings of one of the world's most influential sports organizations.

A key component of the KC NFL Internship program is its commitment to diversity and inclusion, aimed at bridging gaps and fostering a more inclusive environment within the organization. The release says Raines will play a crucial role in this initiative, helping to educate and promote an understanding of her deep-rooted heritage and other indigenous cultures. Her efforts will highlight the importance of sovereignty and jurisdictional issues facing Native nations, providing a valuable perspective within the NFL.

The release says Raines, who recently graduated with an MBA from Benedictine College, has consistently demonstrated a passion for sports and community involvement. During her time at the Atchison college, she was a starting guard for the women's basketball team and earned multiple all-league honors.