(KAIR)--Benedictine College students are among the many local area students having the week off for the Thanksgiving holiday.

When they return, as tradition holds, the college will welcome them back with a lighting ceremony, complete with fireworks.

According to a release from the Atchison-based college, the students are set to return Sunday; and, when they do, it's a tradition for the college to give them a welcome home ceremony, set to start Sunday evening at 8:00. The ceremony will include Mass, followed by the lighting ceremony, that will include the launching of fireworks around 9:15 that night.

The college wants to make certain the Atchison community, especially those residents near the college, is aware that the fireworks, and explosions, are not a concern and are merely a part of the student's return, with the fireworks show expected to last about 10 minutes.

(KAIR)--A 49-year-old Leavenworth woman has learned her fate, sentenced to a decade of incarceration last week in Leavenworth County District Court, for attacking a mother and attempting to push a stroller, holding an infant, into the roadway.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Shalada Guerin, previously convicted of one count of Aggravated Battery in the case, was sentenced to 10 years in the Kansas Department of Corrections.

It was on March 16, the release says, that Guerin approached a woman who was pushing a stroller with an infant near the 1700 block of 2nd Ave in Leavenworth, Kansas. Guerin physically attacked the woman and attempted to push the stroller, with the infant inside, into the roadway. A passerby stopped their vehicle and intervened, allowing the victim and her infant to escape to a nearby business. When Leavenworth police arrived, Guerin admitted to the attack. The woman suffered multiple injuries, including a broken nose, while her infant was not physically harmed.

(KLZA)-- A 15-year-old boy from Oregon, Missouri was transported to the Fairfax, Missouri hospital Thursday afternoon following a wreck on Quebec Road a miles west of Oregon at around 5:30.

The juvenile was eastbound on Quebec Road driving a utility vehicle and began to turn north onto Holt 300. A pickup truck driven by a 19-year-old male, also from Oregon was westbound on Quebec Road and began breaking and skidding. The front of the pickup struck the passenger side of the UTV. Both vehicles came to rest on their wheels.

The Missouri Highway Patrol report indicates the UTV driver was transported by the Atchison-Holt Ambulance District to the hospital. The names of those involved in the wreck were not released.

(KLZA)-- An early Thanksgiving morning wreck on Highway 2 west of Unadilla involved a vehicle traveling the wrong way on the 4-lane highway for the second time in a week.

The Otoe County Sheriff's Office reports the a 17-year-old male from Tecumseh was driving a pickup west in the eastbound lane of traffic and collided head-on with a semi-truck.

The teenager was flown from the scene of the crash by medical helicopter to a Lincoln hospital with what were described as serious injuries.

The 66-year-old driver of the semi is from Ohio and was transported to the hospital in Syracuse while a passenger in his truck, a 70-year-od man from Indiana was transported to a Lincoln hospital by ambulance.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Nebraska State Patrol and fire and rescue units from Unadilla and Syracuse responded to the wreck that occurred shortly before 6 a.m.

The names of those injured have not been released.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Thursday, rescinded boil water advisories for the Jefferson County Rural Water District #10 public water supply systems located in Jefferson County.

According to a release from the KDHE, laboratory testing samples collected from the water district indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.

The advisory took effect Monday when KDHE officials issued it due to a broken water line resulting in low pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.

(KAIR)--A reward is being offered as an incentive as the search to find who's responsible for the Thanksgiving Day shooting, via arrow, of a local area dog continues.

Stephanie and Cody Horton, late Thursday morning, took to social media to draw attention to the shooting, complete with a photo of the arrow-impaled dog. The post can be seen here, but the photo could be disturbing to some readers.

The message accompanying the photo says the shooting occurred in the Denton/Bendena area of Doniphan County, with a later comment saying the Sheriff's Office has been notified of the crime. The Doniphan County Sheriff- Office was not available for immediate comment.

According to the social media post, the dog received emergency treatment from an area veterinarian, and, while in pain, is expected to survive, being treated with antibiotics and pain medication.

The couple has not publicly stated the amount of the offered reward.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Public Works water wells remain below normal levels but are rising steadily.

As of Monday, four wells were below the 5-foot pumping level and the water emergency remains in effect until further notice for Auburn and Peru water customers.

The BPW asks that conservation efforts continue.

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.

Current protocols being observed include: A ban on outdoor water use. The car wash is shut down. Lawn and Irrigation watering is banned and waste of water is prohibited.

Water / Wastewater Manager Alan Slater noted in his latest report that the BPW appreciates the community support and is committed to maintaining the most efficient use of resources available.

If you have questions, please contact the BPW.

(KLZA)-- Omaha Public Power District leaders are sharing the utility- preliminary Corporate Operating Plan for 2025.

Chief Financial Officer Jeff Bishop presented the proposed $2.3 billion budget to directors during their committee meetings Tuesday. If directors approve the proposed plan at the December- board meeting, OPPD will implement a 6.3% average increase among all customer groups.

Residential customers would see an 8.4% average increase, representing an increase of around $9.44 on an average bill of $113. All proposed rate adjustments would be effective beginning Jan. 1, 2025.

The increase includes an average 4.9% general rate increase and a 0.4% increase from the Fuel and Purchased Power Adjustment (FPPA), which is a line item on bills. It also includes a 1% increase from the Rate Stabilization Account to help cover some of the unanticipated costs from this year- extreme weather.

To support reliability, the preliminary COP includes a $12 million increase to the tree-trimming budget, bringing the total investment to $29 million for 2025. OPPD wants to be able to cut back trees near electric lines more often. Currently, each circuit throughout our 5,000-square-mile service territory is trimmed every seven or eight years. The goal is to get that down to every five years or so.

The utility has a range of assistance programs for those who qualify. Some of these programs involve collaboration with other organizations. For more information, visit OPPD.com/EAP or call 402-536-4131.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners approved entering into a lease/purchase agreement with the Nebraska Association of County Officials and D.A. Davidson when they met November 20 for the purpose of electronic upgrades at the County Jail.

Electronic Contracting Company of Lincoln will complete the work at a cost of $251,388.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported hiring two persons for the Road Department with the possibility of hiring one more that is an experienced motor grader operator.

Darveau also reported quotes have been received and a Henderson dump box was ordered at a cost of $44,014. A second dump box has been ordered with Bebo for delivery next year as the manufacturer is about 40 weeks out for delivery.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office executed a pair of search warrants in Falls City on the morning of October 31 as part of an ongoing methamphetamine investigation.

Search warrants were served at 720 Wilson Street and 1312 Barada Street.

At 720 Wilson Street, at approximately 8:00 a.m., Kif Buis was arrested for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a playground and possession of drug paraphernalia.

About an hour later a search warrant was served at the Barada Street home with three people being arrested.

Marty Foster is charged with 5 counts each of possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person and possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony.

In addition Foster was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of Concentrated THC, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Richard Weaver is facing a charge of possession of methamphetamine.

47-year-old Robert Moyer is charged with being an habitual criminal, possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(MSC News)--Thanksgiving weekend is ranked as one of the busiest travel times of the year, and that leads the Kansas Department of Transportation, Kansas Highway Patrol and Kansas Turnpike Authority to remind travelers to buckle up to help make it to the table for holiday celebrations.

A joint release from the agencies, citing KDOT statistics, says the last five Thanksgiving holiday weekends saw 22 people lose their lives in Kansas traffic crashes, with law enforcement officers across the state to have an increased presence over the holiday period, focusing on overall traffic safety in an effort to avoid such tragedies.

KHP Superintendent Colonel Erik Smith, in the release, says "the Kansas Highway Patrol, along with law enforcement agencies across the state, will be on roadways enforcing Kansas’ traffic and occupant protection laws,” adding that "one of the safest choices drivers and passengers can make is to buckle up."

The KTA is also preparing for increased traffic during the Thanksgiving holiday.

Before traveling, the three agencies remind motorists to check the vehicle- tires and fluid levels and have a basic winter travel kit handy in case of emergency. Items that should be included are blankets, bottled water, non-perishable food, cell phone charger, ice scraper, jumper cables, flashlight/batteries and a first-aid kit.

The Missouri Department of Transportation sends a similar message, reminding motorists to "Drive Stuffed, Not Distracted" during the holiday travel period.

According to a release, motorists should expect heavy traffic volumes on interstates and major roads for the holiday especially on the day before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.

The night before Thanksgiving, the release says, is sometimes referred to as Blackout Wednesday, a popular night for outings at bars, which can result in a potential increase of impaired driving.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, from 2019 to 2023, 53 people died in Missouri crashes during the Thanksgiving holiday period.

(KNZA)--A local agency, "devoted to ending family homelessness and ensuring no child sleeps outside,” is granted $2.5 million from the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund, through Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, in order to "connect Northeast & North Central Kansas Families Experiencing Homelessness with Stable Housing and Critical Services."

The funds are awarded to Hiawatha-based NEK-CAP, Inc., a Community Action Agency that provides services and stabilization to families experiencing homelessness throughout its 16 county service area which, locally, includes Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Marshall, Nemaha, and Pottawatomie counties.

According to a release from the agency, family homelessness in the U.S. rose dramatically from 2022 to 2023, and families now represent more than 28 percent of the country- homeless population, according to a 2024 report from the National Alliance to End Homelessness, with NEK-CAP, equipped with the funding, to work toward reversing the national trend.

The release explains that the agency specifically "plans to use its funds to develop partnerships and collaborate with other entities to address short-term and long-term strategies related to ending family homelessness by employing a whole-family, strengths-based model of service delivery."

A group of national advisors who are leading experts on family homelessness and its solutions, including the intersection of homelessness and housing policy, child welfare, racial equity and service provision, identified the organizations selected for funding, with NEK-CAP, Inc. one of 40 across the nation receiving a portion of a total of $110.5 million from the Day 1 Families Fund, formed in 2018. This is the seventh year that the Fund has awarded grants to organizations across the country that are "leading the way to move the needle on family homelessness," with this being the first year to include Kansas nonprofit agencies in the funding.

Lincoln, NE — According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, influenza activity often begins to increase in October and peaks between December and February.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services emphasizes the importance of taking preventative steps to keep Nebraskan families and communities healthy.

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness that infects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. The symptoms can be mild to severe including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle/body aches, headaches, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Anyone can get the flu, but some individuals are at higher risk for serious symptoms. Those groups include individuals 65 years and older, individuals with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, pregnant women, and children younger than five years.

Everyday prevention actions to stop the spread of germs:

• Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick. If you are sick, limit your contact with others as much as possible.

• Stay home when you are sick. If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands. You can resume normal activities when you have not had a fever for over 24 hours and your symptoms are overall getting better.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash immediately after you use it. The flu virus is thought to spread mainly by droplets made when individuals cough, sneeze, or talk.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap is not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Teach children the correct w​ay to wash their hands.

• Clean frequently touched surfaces regularly including doorknobs, handrails, countertops, light switches, restrooms, and tables.

• Consult with your healthcare provider about an annual flu vaccine and other preventive recommendations.

Individuals with the flu are most contagious during the first three days of their illness. If you or a loved one is experiencing flu-like symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan for your care.

For more information, visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Flu-Prevention-and-Vaccine.aspx.

(KLZA)--Falls City will be the site of a Lighted Christmas Parade on Friday, November 29 at 6 p.m. on Stone Street in the 1500 - 1800 blocks.

Decorated floats, machinery, emergency vehicles, UTV's, golf carts and vehicles are welcome to participate.

Any business or organization or family is invited to participate at no cost. You can register for the parade by emailing Amber Holle at the Falls City Chamber Office at

amber@fallscitychamber.com.

Santa will meet with children at his house at 15th and Stone Street following the parade. Free sleigh rides, coloring books, hot cocoa and cookies will be available during the event and stores will be open late for shopping.

Prior to the parade, the Boy Scouts will be serving up soup at the Richardson County Ag Museum at 14th and Chase Streets beginning at 4:30 p.m.

(KLZA)--The Humboldt Citizen Support Group is congratulating the greater Humboldt community for having reached the initial $100,000 contribution threshold for Colonial Acres Nursing Home.

This cash injection level reached $100,000 last week.

Large and small donations have combined to allow for a firm financial footing to be re-established, recovering from the hole that was created by the impacts of Covid.

During a Novmeber 17 meeting, the Citizen Support Group had reason to celebrate having reached this threshold. They also learned that Colonial Acres Nursing Home & Assisted Living had officially started the new Fiscal Year with positive revenue, which was not based on donations or State Funds.

Nursing Home Administrator Betsy Packet reported that this positive revenue appears to indicate that things have potentially turned a corner.

In August 2024, it was all hands are on deck as the Humboldt community rallied in support of the City owned Colonial Acres Nursing Home & Assisted Living. Donations large and small, from 37 unique donors: individuals, businesses, community institutions have gotten the Citizen Support Campaign to this initial $100,000 level which has resulted in the ability to make major headway with accounts payable that had accumulated during Covid.

Nursing Home census has rebounded from an average of 25 in 2020 during Covid to 32 in the most recent quarter of 2024. That represents a 20% positive gain.

The Citizen Support Group notes that there is a need to finish paying past due accounts payable and to restore a working level of cash reserves.

This effort as triggered in August continues. Contributions can be made directly to the Coloial Acres Nursing Home.

Anyone is welcome to join in with this working group for this next push. This group has been holding meetings at 6 PM on selected Sunday evenings. Feel free to reach out and get your email address on the contact list for the posting of any future work sessions.

(KNZA)--As part of National Rural Health Day on November 21st, Sabetha Community Hospital announced it has earned a 2024 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Patient Perspective. Compiled by The Chartis Center for Rural Health, the Performance Leadership Awards recognize top quartile performance (i.e., 75th percentile or above) among rural hospitals in Quality, Outcomes and/or Patient Perspective.

“The administrative team are certainly very proud of the dedicated staff at Sabetha Community Hospital that exhibit the characteristics worthy of this recognition. We realize that it takes commitment from all areas of the healthcare system to achieve this award. Our unwavering steadfastness to improvement in all that we do will continue to be goal. The staff of SCH are deserving of gratitude for making our hospital a standout facility in which to obtain healthcare services, Dr. James Longabaugh.”

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, a comprehensive and objective framework for assessing how rural hospitals are performing. INDEX benchmarks are relied upon by rural hospitals, health systems with rural footprints, hospital associations, and state offices of rural health to measure performance across multiple areas impacting hospital operations and finance.

“The Performance Leadership Awards capture the commitment, diligence, and innovation with which America- rural hospitals approach the delivery of care within their communities,” said Troy Brown, Network Consultant, The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “It- a tremendous honor to be able to recognize the efforts of this year- award winners and celebrate their achievement as part of National Rural Health Day.”

Sabetha Community Hospital is a 25-bed critical access facility providing acute care including obstetrics, skilled care, home health, swing bed and hospice, and a broad range of outpatient services. SCH is a Level IV Trauma Center and the Hospital and Medical Staff maintain working relationships with the closest tertiary care centers, so that transfers of complicated cases are handled smoothly. The Sabetha Community Hospital provides round-the-clock acute care for all your medical needs.

(KNZA)--A longtime Hiawatha volunteer firefighter was recognized for his service to the city during Monday evening's City Commission meeting.

Mayor Becky Shamburg presented a plaque to Don Koontz in recognition of 20 years of service.

Koontz recently retired from the Fire Department after serving as a volunteer firefighter from October 2004 through October of this year.

In addition, Shamburg recognized public works employee Chad Goben for 5 years of service to the city.

In other business, the Commission adopted a resolution authorizing the sale of general obligation bonds to finance the replacement of the traffic signals at the intersection of 1st and Oregon Streets at an estimated cost of $795,000 and replacement of the water meters in town at an estimated cost of $870,000.

That came after the Commission adopted resolutions authorizing both projects, which are planned for next year.

Bond Counsel Kevin Cowan joined the meeting via Zoom to guide the Commission through the process.

At the request of Fire Chief Patrick Sheldon, the Commission authorized the Fire Department to seek bids for two options to provide additional space to house the department's apparatus.

With the department's new truck set to arrive next week, Sheldon said they have a housing problem.

He said the Fire Department came up with two options to address the situation. One option is remodel the old gas station to provide additional space for a truck and the other option is to add a new building on the back of the Fire Station. It would replace an existing building, whose roof leaks.

Sheldon said he felt both options are viable.

The Commission also voted to seek bids for the removal of a derelict house located at 1101 Miami Street, which Commissioner Brian Shefferd said he feels is a safety concern.

(KNZA)--An Elwood man has been charged in Doniphan County with aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

66-year-old John Umphress was arrested November 13 following an investigation by the Elwood Police Department.

According to court documents, Umphress is charged in connection with an alleged incident in May involving a girl born in 2015.

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

(KLZA)-- An Iowa man was killed in a wreck on U-S Highway 159 approximately 4.5 miles northeast of Fortescue, Missouri on Thursday afternoon, November 21, about 5:45 p.m. according to the Missouri Highway Patrol.

The Iowa man was driving north in a 2020 Polaris Ranger and a Hyundai Santa Cruz, which is a compact pickup was southbound on U-S 159. The Polaris Ranger hit a deer in the northbound lane and crossed into the southbound lane where the Ranger impacted the front of the Santa Cruz. The Polaris overturned coming to rest on its passenger side.

The 66-year-old driver of the Polaris was pronounced dead at the scene by Holt County Coroner Susan Lentz. A 35-year-old man from Huxley, Iowa, who was a passenger in the Polaris, was transported to Community Medical Center in Falls City by the Atchison-Holt EMS and then transferred by Life Flight to Brian West Hospital in Lincoln with what were described as serious injuries.

The 51-year-old female who was driving the pickup was not transported.

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

(KLZA)-- During last weeks meeting of the Falls City Council, recently hired Parks & Recreation Director Briar Burr outlined an operational and use plan for Prichard Auditorium and reviewed the Aquatic Center staff manual.

Prichard Auditorium, described as "The Jewel of Southeast Nebraska" was built in the 1930's using more than 2,000 tons of native limestone. The facility has been used to host basketball and volleyball games, boxing and wrestling, benefits, community events, wedding receptions, prom and after-prom parties, toy shows, farm and home shows, Red Cross Bloodmobiles and even funerals.

Burr said that even with those events taking place he feels the building is under utilized and could be used to offer recreational use weeknights between 4 and 8 p.m. Staff is currently on duty from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. but staff would need to be on duty for the additional hours.

The City already keeps the building heated in the winter and Burr feels it will be fairly inexpensive to operate with added use. He noted that he wants to be able to keep the use of the facility affordable and offer something back to the community.

Burr feels the building could be used more by youth and families for a wide range of activities. He said in checking with the schools, unless kids are involved in organized sports at their school, there aren't many other opportunities for recreational activities.

The idea is to have use of the building membership driven. Starting December 2, a "Prichard Pass" will be available, which will give members access to the Auditorium amenities which includes gym space for volleyball, basketball, pickle ball dodgeball and others.

During December the plan is to have the building open at no charge and then utilize the passes beginning in January.

The passes would be good through December, 2025 with plans for annual passes for youth ages 5 - 15 for $60, adults 16 - 54 for $78 and seniors 55 and over for $50. The possibility of a family pass could be explored in the future.

During the summer months when there are more activities and families are busier outside, the Auditorium hours would be reduced to 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. During the school year from September 1 to the end of April the hours would be extended to 8 p.m.

Prichard Auditorium will still be available for rent for wedding receptions and other events.

The Council approved the proposal.

Burr also presented an Aquatic Center Staff Manual and Emergency Action Plan which included proposed wages for staff members, job descriptions, staff policies and uniform requirements. The proposal was approved.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office will be sponsoring Stuff the Cruiser events on Saturday, December 7 in Falls City and Humboldt.

In partnership with Southeast Nebraska Community Action, toys will be collected which will go to children and families in need in Richardson County.

In Humboldt, the Stuff the Cruiser event will take place from 8 a.m. until noon at the Dollar General Store.

In Falls City, you can Stuff the Cruiser at three different locations between 1 and 5 p.m. Cruisers will be on hand at the Dollar General Store, Farm and City Supply and at Dollar Fresh.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners reviewed the law enforcement contract between the Richardson County Sheriff's Department and the City of Humboldt when they met last week.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty proposed to the Humboldt City Council the prior week a three-year contract beginning September 1, 2025 at a price of $103,000 for the first year, with a 5% increase each year of the contract period.

The Humboldt Council made a counter proposal of $94,000 the first year with a 2% increase each year for a period of 5 years.

Commissioners unanimously approved counter offer from the City of Humboldt with a clause to be included that if it is necessary that a salary increase for the deputy should exceed 2%, the City would incur the additional cost for that year. The contract with the stipulation will now go back to the Humboldt City Council for their approval.

Sheriff Hardesty also reported he is meeting with the Village of Stella December 2 to discus ordinance enforcement within the village and the possibility of developing an agreement for the Sheriff's Office to carry out the enforcement. Charges would be made on a “per call” basis.

Options for providing inmate meals are being reviewed. The current contract with Consolidated Management Company is in effect until October, 2025, with a buy-out clause. Consideration is being given to staff more jailers which would meet the Jail Standards recommendation and these jailers would also be in charge of preparing the inmate meals.

Discussion has also been taking place on hiring an additional dispatcher.

Sheriff Hardesty noted that he is obtaining quotes to upgrade the generators at the Law Enforcement Center and that the Sheriff's Department will participate in the “Drive Sober, Get Pulled Over” grant December 13 through January 1, 2025.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for Jefferson County Rural Water District #10 public water supply system located in Jefferson County.

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.

The advisory took effect on November 25th and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a water main break causing a loss in system pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure levels may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination. 

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-876-2639, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE- PWS Consumer Information webpage: kdhe.ks.gov/waterdisruption

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture- food safety & lodging program at kda.fsl@ks.gov or call 785-564-6767.

(KNZA)--A local agency, "devoted to ending family homelessness and ensuring no child sleeps outside,” is granted $2.5 million from the Bezos Day 1 Families Fund, through Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez, in order to "connect Northeast & North Central Kansas Families Experiencing Homelessness with Stable Housing and Critical Services."

The funds are awarded to Hiawatha-based NEK-CAP, Inc., a Community Action Agency that provides services and stabilization to families experiencing homelessness throughout its 16 county service area which, locally, includes Atchison, Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Marshall, Nemaha, and Pottawatomie counties.

According to a release from the agency, family homelessness in the U.S. rose dramatically from 2022 to 2023, and families now represent more than 28 percent of the country- homeless population, according to a 2024 report from the National Alliance to End Homelessness, with NEK-CAP, equipped with the funding, to work toward reversing the national trend.

The release explains that the agency specifically "plans to use its funds to develop partnerships and collaborate with other entities to address short-term and long-term strategies related to ending family homelessness by employing a whole-family, strengths-based model of service delivery."

A group of national advisors who are leading experts on family homelessness and its solutions, including the intersection of homelessness and housing policy, child welfare, racial equity and service provision, identified the organizations selected for funding, with NEK-CAP, Inc. one of 40 across the nation receiving a portion of a total of $110.5 million from the Day 1 Families Fund, formed in 2018. This is the seventh year that the Fund has awarded grants to organizations across the country that are "leading the way to move the needle on family homelessness," with this being the first year to include Kansas nonprofit agencies in the funding.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth County man, of the City of Lansing, has been convicted on a charge stemming from the fentanyl overdose death of a teen who used Snapchat to obtain the drug.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, 20-year-old Torin Baughman, last week in Leavenworth County District Court, "pleaded guilty to an amended charge distribution of a controlled substance causing death," identified in the release as fentanyl.

Baughman had originally been charged with first-degree murder in the January 17, 2023 death of a 15-year-old Leavenworth County teen.

In exchange of the plea, a charge of aggravated endangering a child was dismissed.

Leavenworth County Sheriff's deputies arrested Baughman on March 20, 2024, after the Kansas Bureau of Investigation obtained an arrest warrant.

According to court documents cited in the release, multiple law enforcement agencies investigated the crime, including the KBI and the U.S. Secret Service, with the outcome showing that Baughman had sold the teen a pill that had been "sprayed" with fentanyl.

Sentencing for Baughman is scheduled for January 3 of next year.

(KNZA)--Holton Community Hospital's Home Health and Hospice services are now under the management of Faith Home Health and Hospice.

That change, or new chapter, as the hospital puts it in a release, began November 17.

Holton Community Hospital CEO, Carrie Lutz, in the release, says they are "actively working towards finalizing a Purchase Agreement that ensures [the hospital's] dedicated local staff will continue to provide compassionate care" to the community," adding that Faith Home Health and Hospice shares [the hospital's] commitment to exceptional service and is enthusiastic about partnering with [the hospital] to meet the needs" of the patients and families.

The decision to make the change comes after what the release calls "the hospital- difficult announcement in September of the closure of its award-winning Home Health and Hospice department, effective December 31, 2024," with the release explaining "that closure was necessitated by significant financial challenges brought on by changes in healthcare payment models, the expansion of Medicare replacement plans, and increasing competition from other agencies.

According to the release, Faith Home Health and Hospice, based in Kansas City, brings decades of expertise in quality care, with their values aligning "closely with the hospital-, offering a smooth transition for patients, families, and staff."

(KAIR)--A Delia house fire is battled successfully, but apparent suspicions led to a search of the home hours following the fire, leading to one arrest.

Taken into custody was Denise Meltz, of Delia, who was booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of arson, possession of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.

That's according to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, who says the investigation followed the fire, which was reported shortly after 6:00 Thursday evening, at 510 Washington Avenue. It was there that the Delia, Mayetta, Hoyt, and Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Fire Departments responded, accompanied by Jackson County EMS, and the Sheriff's Office.

Upon arrival, responders found the residence engulfed with fire, with the fire departments able to extinguish the blaze

The Kansas State Fire Marshal- Office responded later to the scene.

The Jackson County Sheriff- Office served a search warrant on the residence later in the night, leading to the arrest of the 44-year-old Meltz.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Perry public water supply system located in Jefferson County. This advisory is for customers living in the Perry Place Mobile Home Park.

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.

The advisory took effect on November 22 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system at 785-597-5613, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE- PWS Consumer Information webpage: https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture- food safety & lodging program at kda.fsl@ks.gov or call 785-564-6767.

(KLZA)-- Two people are facing multiple felony charges in Richardson County following the execution of a search warrant by the Richardson County Sheriff's Department and officials with Nebraska Game and Parks on November 17 at 520 3rd Street in Humboldt.

David Wells is facing 6 counts each of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of a firearm with a felony drug violation; possession of marijuana with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a playground; 3 counts each of possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person and possession of a deadly weapon while committing a felony; no drug tax stamp; possession of concentrated THC and possession or use of drug paraphernalia.

Bianca Ramirez is facing 6 charges of possession of a firearm with a felony drug violation; possession of marijuana with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a playground; 3 counts of possession of a deadly weapon while committing a felony; no drug tax stamp; possession of concentrated THC and 2 counts of possession or use of drug paraphernalia.

Both Wells and Ramirez are being held at the Richardson County Jail.

(KLZA)--A Dawson, Nebraska man is facing multiple charges following the execution of a search warrant, which resulted in the discovery of homemade explosives, a firearm, multiple prohibited weapons and suspected methamphetamine.

According to a release from the Richardson County Sheriff's office, 61-year-old Charles Ochoa was arrested November 19th after deputies served the warrant at 420 4th Street in Dawson.

Ochoa was arrested on charges including possession of a firearm by a prohibited person; possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony; use of explosives to commit a felony; possession of a destructive device; use of explosives without a permit; storing explosives in violation of safety regulations; possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person; possession of meth, maintaining a drug house, possession of drug paraphernalia, obstructing a peace officer and being a habitual criminal.

Following his arrest, Ochoa was booked into the Richardson County Jail where he remains held on a $100,000 bond.

(KLZA)-- During this weeks City Council meeting in Falls City, Administrator Anthony Nussbaum updated the Council on a pair of grants the city had applied for, both of which were unsuccessful.

The first application was for a Rural Community Recovery grant in an amount of one million dollars that was to be used for a park area at 1506 Stone Street. It was a one-time grant which will not be accessible again.

The other application was for a Natural Gas Infrastructure Safety grant in an amount of $9.5 million. The city can resubmit the grant for up to two more years.

The Council approved a new Snow and Ice Control Plan recommended by the Board of Public Works and Public Works Director Trevor Campbell.

The new plan outlines priorities for the order snow removal from streets will be done. Streets designated Priority Level I will include Emergency Routes, Parking lots and sidewalks at the Fire and Ambulance buildings, City Hall and downtown public parking lots.

Priority II Level includes collector street routes, paved alley's dead end streets and the parking lots for Prichard Auditorium, City parks and public parking sidewalks on 15th and 16th and Chase Streets and Steele Cemetery.

A new plan for removing snow in the downtown business area will be implemented. Snow will be piled up in one or two parking stalls at the end of each block and then removed after business hours in an effort to avoid conflicts with traffic in the area.

Business owners are not to push snow from sidewalks into the street after the street has been cleaned and snow hauled offsite. However, property owners are encouraged to push snow from their sidewalk into the snow piles created by city staff located in the corners of the blocks.

(KLZA)-- The Nemaha Natural Resources District Board of Directors voted to appoint Dick James of Verdon to fill the vacant director position in Subdistrict #8 when they met November 14.

The Board approved the Fiscal Year 2024 audit report presented by Christy Hadden of Schulz and Associates.

A bid for riprap placement on two watershed structures in the Upper Big Nemaha watershed was awarded to Dynamic Dirtwork and Demo in an amount of $10,550.

Bids for tree and brush removal for 14 watershed structures were awarded. Borrenpohl Excavation was awarded a bid for four structures at a cost of $4,820. Goracke Contracting was awarded the bid for five structures at a cost of $5,620. BF Construction will do the work at two structures for $1,450 and East-South Trucking / Excavating will do three structures at a bid of $4,850. The structures are located in Brownell, Wilson Creek, Upper Little Nemaha and South Branch areas.

The Nemaha NRD Board voted to purchase a new 75 horsepower tractor from Landmark Implement at a bid price of $47,296.

Board members also approved a resolution in support of Omaha Public Power Districts project near the Steamboat Trace, which will result in relocating the Arbor Spur trailhead.

(KNZA)--An Atchison man has been arrested in connection with a recent rash of burglaries and thefts in the southeast part of Brown County.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant announced in a release Friday the arrest of 42-year-old Richard Croft following a joint investigation by his department and surrounding law enforcement agencies.

Croft was arrested Wednesday on three felony counts of burglary, a felony count of theft and two misdemeanor counts of theft.

Merchant said the arrest came after Brown County investigators and the Valley Falls Police Chief coordinated a search warrant in Jefferson County. Assisting were the Troy Police Department, Doniphan County Sheriff's Department and Jefferson County Sheriff's office.

Stolen property from the Brown County burglaries was recovered at the search warrant location.

Merchant said the case remains under investigation.

Following his arrest, Croft was booked into the Brown County Jail, where he remains held on a $40,000 bond.

A preliminary hearing the case is set for November 27

(KNZA)---USDA is investing nearly $2.7 million in 17 clean energy projects in Kansas--including projects in Brown and Doniphan Counties.

The grant awards were announced Monday and are part of a larger national announcement that includes projects in 39 other states.

In Brown County:

A $54,750 grant will help S&K Agronomy, of rural Hiawatha, purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine. The project is expected to generate 38,831 kWh of electricity per year, which is all the company's electricity use and enough to power three homes.

In Doniphan County:

A $57,250 grant will help Junior Nelson Farms Inc. purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine to support their agricultural operation in Troy. The project is expected to generate 33,593 kWh of electricity per year, which is all the company's electricity use and enough to power three homes.

A $57,250 grant will help Johnson Farms Inc. purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine to support their agricultural operation in Bendena. The project is expected to replace 35,804 kWh of electricity per year, which is all the company's electricity use and enough to power three homes.

A $57,250 grant will help Gerald Boos purchase and install a 15 kW wind turbine to support his agricultural operation in Denton. The project is expected to generate 32,066 kWh of electricity per year, which is all the company's electricity use and enough to power three homes.

(KNZA)--A district magistrate judge vacancy has been filled in Jefferson County.

According to a release from the Kansas Courts, the 2nd Judicial District Nominating Commission selected Brian Yearout to fill the vacancy from among ten nominees interviewed Wednesday for the position.

Yearout- new position will be effective on his swearing-in. He currently serves as the deputy county attorney for Pottawatomie County.

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

The vacancy will be created when District Magistrate Judge Dennis Reiling retires at the end of his term.

After serving one year in office, Yearout must stand for a retention vote in the next general election to remain in the position. If retained, he will serve a four-year term.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council approved awarding the 20-24 SCADA Water Systems upgrade project to HOA Solutions of Lincoln, at a cost of $149,205 as recommended by the Board of Public Works and Public Works Director Trevor Campbell when they met Monday night.

The project will upgrade the Falls City Water Control System. The bid from HOA will include all the control and networking equipment needed to make the upgrades and will include two control panels at the Water Treatment Plant at Rulo, one control panel at the Power Plant in Falls City, three well panels and two SCADA Computers and networking and SCADA hardware at the collector well site.

In other business the Council approved on final reading amendments to police regulations for dogs and cats. Action was also approved concerning the employee cell phone policy which will require a lock on phones used by employees using personal cell phones or city issued cell pones for business purposes. This is to protect sensitive information and ensure security.

(KNZA)--The city of Robinson and Horton Elementary School are among 36 community grants recipients from the Foundation for Rural Service, defined, in a release, as the philanthropic arm of NTCA--the Rural Broadband Association.

According to the release, issued by Everest-based Rainbow Communications, the city of Robinson will receive a $5,000 grant for improvements to the city's ball field.

The Horton Elementary School will receive a $1,000 grant to host a Career on Wheels event for the students. The release defines a Career on Wheels as "an interactive educational event that brings various professionals and their vehicles to Horton Elementary School, allowing students to explore and learn about different careers in a hands-on environment."

The funds granted to city of Robinson and Horton Elementary School come from the total grant amount of $170,000, which the release calls "the largest number of grants and greatest total annual allocation" in the broadband association's history, with the funds granted to close out the foundation's 30th anniversary year. The overall funding will support a wide variety of projects aimed at improving quality of life across rural communities served by NTCA members," such as Rainbow Communications.

(KNZA)--Voters in Jeff County North USD 339 defeated a $5.5 million bond issue for facility improvements by just a 4-vote margin.

That's the outcome following a canvass of ballots from the November 5th election.

The school district released the certified results Wednesday in a social media post.

561 votes were cast in favor of the bond issue to 565 votes against.

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

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

The school district released the following statement Wednesday:

“On behalf of USD 339, we thank everyone who participated in the November bond election. While the outcome was not what we had hoped for, we are deeply grateful for the community- engagement, thoughtful conversations, and ongoing support for our schools. We will continue the conversation in the future to provide the best facilities, security, and future for JCN students and staff. “

(KNZA)--Fundraising efforts are underway for a new Sabetha High School track and football field improvement project.

Sabetha High School Athletic Director Kaleb Moeller, who is spearheading the project, said the " state-of-the art facility" would benefit not only the student athletes, but the community as well.

The $2.55 million project would utilize private money to redo the aging track and install turf on the football field. Also as part of the project, the field events would be moved to the south end of the football field.

The project would start in the summer of 2025 and take eight weeks to complete. The goal is to have the new facilities ready for use at the beginning of the fall sports season.

Moeller provided a fund-raising update to the Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education last week, saying $606,000 has either been pledged or given to the project to date. He added that they have received $525,000 in match fund from Keim TS and an anonymous donor.

Those interested in supporting the project can donate to the Bluejay Facility Enhancement Fund through the Greater Sabetha Community Foundation. In addition, businesses and families have an opportunity to purchase advertising squares along the sidelines with a donation of $50,000 or more. It can be a one-time donation or a pledge over five years.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson-Brock School Board met for an emergency session November 14.

The meeting was called due to low cash reserves due to low cash flow coming in.

Board members discussed the cash flow from the past three months. December is typically a slow month for income. Past years income was compared to the current year.

The Board in an effort to be proactive to make sure expenses are covered approved a resolution to accept a line of credit at First National Bank of Johnson.

(KAIR)--For the 11th year, Atchison-based MGP Ingredients is providing the Atchison community with a Christmas present in the form of what's known as "Boxes of Blessing."

According to a release, the company will, through the help of local partners, distribute 25,000 pounds of food during the annual giveaway, planned for Friday, December 13.

Aimed at serving Atchison-area families in need, each box will contain 25-pounds of non-perishable food items, and will be given away, from 1 to 7 pm, in the alley on the south side of Atchison Wholesale Grocery, located at 100 South 3rd Street. Drivers, on that December 13, are asked to line up on main street in wait of their box, which will be available while supplies last.

MGP's vice president of Ingredient Solutions sales and R&D, Michael Buttshaw, in the release, says "Boxes of Blessing" "reflects appreciation and care for the entire Atchison community," adding that the company finds it "gratifying to help our neighbors."

Local, non-profit partners include Atchison County Food Pantry at First Christian Church; the Salvation Army of Atchison County; Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas; and Pantry of Hope. The Atchison Police Department and Atchison Wholesale Grocery are also commended for their assistance with the annual giveaway.

The Atchison project was inspired by a community program developed more than 20 years ago at B.C. Williams, a Dallas-based ingredients distributor and producer of custom mixes, bases and concentrates, with the "Boxes of Blessing" initially focused on helping families in Texas and Tennessee, until it was extended to the Atchison area in 2014.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, Ecostrat and the BDO Zone Initiative have announced the issue of an investment grade BDO Zone "A" Rating for Falls City.

A BDO Zone is a Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone, which certifies a regional readiness for bio-manufacturing. The "A" rating denotes high prospective viability of Feedstock Supply and Infrastructure and low expectations of default risk in the zone.

Falls City- BDO Zone rating for 600,000 bone dry tons per year of corn stover is the first rating in the state of Nebraska and extends a 75-mile drive-distance from the center point in Falls City.

Corn stover is the plant material left in the field after corn is harvested including leaves, stalks, husks and cobs.

The capacity to support new biobased plant operations is considered strong, with the region featuring high crop yields that guarantee a reliable feedstock supply and a lack of competing bio-projects in the competition zone.

Local farmers and agricultural companies are experienced in bale logistics, production, storage, and transport, enhancing operational efficiency.

The Mid-America Rail Campus offers rail access, open zoning, and strong government support for infrastructure upgrades, making Falls City an ideal location for biomass-based projects.

The importance of BDO Zone ratings has been recently highlighted by Citroniq Chemicals LLC's decision to select Falls City for the world's largest decarbonized plastics production facility.

Falls City EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl says the 'A' rating confirms Richardson County, as the home of consistent and productive corn yields and adds value to the agriculture industry that drives our local economy.

Falls City- Mid-America Rail Campus is positioned to lead the way for bioeconomy investments to support the local family farms, create careers and prosperity for working families, and capitalize on the areas land, rail, river, and air transportation assets.

Froeschl said "Falls City EDGE welcomes discussions with those in the bioenergy, biochemical, and bioproducts market ready for production facility construction to meet customer demand and goals.”

Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative, stated, “The Falls City BDO Zone 'A' rating highlights Nebraska's significant potential in the bioeconomy sector. He said

this designation not only showcases the region's abundant corn stover resources but also underscores its robust infrastructure and strong agricultural expertise.

(KMZA)-Marshall County voters approved a continuation of a half-cent sales tax for Community Memorial Healthcare in Marysville by a 14-vote margin following a recount of ballots from the November 5th general election.

The Marshall County Clerk's Office says a board of six election workers met Monday afternoon to count all 5,022 ballots by hand after county resident Nicole Woodard requested the recount.

Results from the recount showed the sales tax question being approved by a vote of 2,380 to 2,366.

Following a canvass of ballots last week by the Marshall County Commission, the sales tax question had been approved by just an 8-vote margin.

The County Clerk's office says the additional "yes" votes resulted from a combination of ballots marked in red ink, green ink, check marks or pencil that were unable to be read by the tabulating machine.

(KMZA)--Work began Tuesday along a section of K-9 Highway in Centralia.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says the project consists of curb, gutter and storm sewer improvements between 3rd and 6th Streets.

KDOT says traffic impacts should be minimal, with most project activity taking place along the roadway- shoulder. Occasional lane closures may occur in the area. Flaggers will direct traffic when necessary.

Work will take place Monday through Friday during daylight hours and is expected to be complete by April 2025.

Ebert Construction Co., of Wamego, is the contractor on the $1 million project.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission, during a short special meeting Tuesday morning, approved the creation of a reinvestment housing incentive district for a proposed duplex development project on city-owned land, west of Bruning Park.

City Administrator Brad Scott said the project developer wants to create the housing incentive district to help pay for infrastructure improvements for the project.

The Commission voted 3-0 to authorize Mayor Becky Shamburg to sign the documents for the creation of the district. Commissioners Evans Woehlecke and Toni Hull were absent.

The Commission at their October 28th meeting gave the project developer, Michael Webb, of Wichita, approval to submit a grant application to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation for funding through the Kansas Moderate Income Housing Program to help finance the project.

Two previous grant applications were unsuccessful.

(KLZA)-- An Atchison County, Missouri crash that occurred shortly before 7:30 Sunday morning, killing three people and injuring three others allegedly occurred following a kidnapping in Nebraska, followed by a pursuit starting in Iowa and ending in a deadly crash.

KETV in Omaha reports that Fremont County, Iowa deputies responded to a report shortly after 6 a.m. Sunday of a woman at the hospital in Hamburg, Iowa, telling investigators that a man she knew had kidnapped her and her 1-year-old son in Nebraska.

She said the man had run over her and later dropped her off at the hospital in Hamburg before fleeing with the child in a Kia Sorento. The woman also reported the man was suicidal and homicidal.

Iowa troopers attempted to box in the suspect but he was able to get away and continued to flee, getting onto Interstate 29 headed south in the northbound lanes.

Deputies attempted to intercept the pursuit near Hamburg traveling north on I-29. They found the Kia driven by a 29-year-old man from Bellevue, Nebraska, traveling south in the northbound lane at a high rate of speed, followed by Iowa State troopers.

The driver attempted to hit the Fremont County deputies. One deputy pursued the suspect in the northbound lanes with emergency lights activated while other pursuit continued in the southbound lanes.

Iowa troopers stopped pursuit at the Missouri State line as Missouri authorities were notified.

The Kia collided with a 2013 Ford Foucs which was northbound in the left lane while passing a semi-truck. The semi swerved in an attempt to avoid the crash but hit the Fremont County, Iowa deputy who was still in pursuit in the northbound lanes.

The Kia came to rest on the northbound Nishnabotna River Bridge and caught on fire. The driver of the Kia was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Fremont County Deputy was able to rescue the 1-year-old child who had been kidnapped from the burning vehicle. The child was flown to a hospital in Omaha with non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the Ford Focus left the road and the car rolled over, ejecting an 18-yer-old woman from the vehicle. The woman and the driver, an 18-year-old male also died at the scene of the wreck. Another passenger in the car survived with serious injures. All three were from Kearney, Missouri.

The Fremont County Deputy who was hit by the semitrailer was treated and released from the Grape Community Hospital in Hamburg.

The names of those involved in the crash have not been released.

The crash is under investigation by the Missouri Highway Patrol.

(KAIR)--A Kansas Department of Transportation field survey is underway on K-116 in Atchison County, with a release from KDOT saying the survey area is south of Effingham and extends from Cheyenne Road to the U.S. 159 junction.

The survey, according to the release, is to gather information necessary for the detailed design of the proposed roadway improvements and is estimated to be complete by March 2025.

A member of the survey crew first will contact property owners and/or tenants for permission to enter private property. Survey activities will include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the survey corridor.

Johnny Yackle, P.S., Survey Project Manager, HDR, will be in charge of the survey for KDOT.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Court of Appeals has denied the appeal of a Hiawatha man convicted on multiple felony counts over two decades ago.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said in release that the court denied the criminal appeal of Joseph Esher in an an appellate decision on Friday, November 15.

" In a unanimous decision, the Court of Appeals upheld the decision of the District Court of Brown County summarily denying Esher's habeas corpus motion requesting relief from his 2001 convictions for multiple felony counts."

In 2001, Esher was convicted following a four-day jury trial in Brown County of two counts of rape, and one count each of aggravated kidnapping, aggravated criminal sodomy, and kidnapping.

The charges followed an incident in which Esher barricaded himself in a Hiawatha residence and held two 14-year-old girls hostage until they were rescued by officers with the Hiawatha Police Department and Brown County Sheriff- Office.

Esher was sentenced to a total of 74 years and 10 months in prison on the charges.

Hill prosecuted the 2001 trial and handled the recent habeas corpus motion and appeal on behalf of the State.

(KAIR)--More than $300,000 will go toward what a release calls "seven new partnership initiatives for the second year of funding through the Kansas Water Office- Kansas Water Plan Partnership Initiative," with two of those based in the local area.

The release, from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly explains the $320,000 is earmarked for "projects centered around conserving and protecting the High Plains Aquifer, improving state water quality, reducing vulnerability to extreme events, and increasing awareness of Kansas water resources."

Of the seven selected projects to be funded is the Doniphan County Conservation District, with the release explaining that the funding will be used for the "implementation of a new roller/crimper in cover crop management and completion to enhance soil health and for outreach programs."

The Nemaha County Conservation District is also selected, with funding to be used for the "implementation of a new no-till drill and education program materials."

Regional Advisory Committees across the state have established water-related goals specific to their region, which applicants could cite when submitting their proposal.

Kelly, in the release, says the selected projects will "continue the work...to secure our state- water future,” adding that such investments "will affect generations to come," as "the Kansas Water Plan Partnership Initiative ensures progress on meeting the water needs of communities in our state.”

(KAIR)--Horton Elementary School is named as one of 36 community grants recipients from the Foundation for Rural Service, defined, in a release, as the philanthropic arm of NCTC-the Rural Broadband Association.

According to the release, issued by Everest-based Rainbow Communications, the local school receives $1,000 to host a Career on Wheels for the students. The release defines a Career on Wheels as "an interactive educational event that brings various professionals and their vehicles to Horton Elementary School, allowing students to explore and learn about different careers in a hands-on environment."

Rainbow's CEO, Jason Smith, in the release, says supporting such initiatives aligns with the company's "commitment to investing in the future of our local communities," with Smith adding that "by introducing students to careers right here in their hometown, we hope to inspire them to see the possibilities for their futures close to home."

The funds granted to Horton Elementary School come from the total grant amount of $170,000, which the release calls "the largest number of grants and greatest total annual allocation" in the broadband association's history, with the funds granted to close out the foundation's 30th anniversary year. The overall funding will support a wide variety of projects aimed at improving quality of life across rural communities served by NTCA members," such as Rainbow Communications.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Board of Education approved the Boards evaluation of Superintendent Brian Rottinghaus when they met November 11.

The Board accepted the Policy Committee's recommendations for policies concerning Assessment Administration and Security; Internet Searches Regarding potential employees; staff and district social media use; job references; the superintendent evaluation and overtime and compensatory time; reporting child abuse or neglect and the resignation of certified staff.

It was noted during the meeting that the 2025-26 health insurance premiums through the Educators Health Alliance through Blue Cross / Blue Shield will increase by 5.49 percent, which will amount in a total premium cost increase the the Pawnee City School District of approximately $43,000.

Overall, EHA insurance premiums have increased 4.8% over the past 10 years.

It was also reported that plans to place an Ag Partners owned diesel fuel tank by the bus barn have moved forward. Ag Partners will provide the fuel tanks free of charge to the school district as long as the Pawnee City District used their fuel.

(KLZA)-- Governor Jim Pillen has appointed Humboldt native Jeff Bucher to the Nebraska Board of Parole.

Bucher will replace Robert Twiss, whose term expired in September.

Bucher has been a member of the Lincoln Police Department since 1990 and is currently a Captain. He recently supervised operations for the Lincoln/Lancaster County Narcotics Task Force and the Lincoln Gang Unit. He previously served as a managing criminal investigations and duty commander. Bucher was named the Lincoln Police Department Officer of the Year in 2015.

Bucher earned a degree in criminal justice from the University of Nebraska at Lincoln.

The Board of Parole is made up of five full-time members, each appointed by the Governor. Terms of office are six years. Appointments are subject to confirmation by the Legislature.

(KLZA)-- Larry the Cable Guy is gearing up for a road trip, bringing his comedy to nine communities across Nebraska including Falls City and his hometown of Pawnee City.

In Falls City the doors at Prichard Auditorium will open at 5pm and showtime is 7pm on Saturday, February 15. Tickets are General Admission and cost $50.

He is donating proceeds from the show to the theater programs at Sacred Heart School and Falls City High School. Tickets go on sale Friday, Nov 22. Tickets can be purchased at the Falls City Chamber Office, The Elks Club, Sacred Heart School, Falls City High School or contact Jackie Knobbe jackieknobbe7@gmail.com 310-927-8147 or Abby Merz Abby_lem@hotmail.com. 402-245-8678.

Lary The Cable Guy will also be performing in Pawnee City on Friday, February 14th at the Pawnee City High School.

The comedian, whose real name is Dan Whitney, says he- excited to perform at intimate venues that bring him closer to the communities that have supported him over the years.

Larry is pledging proceeds from each show to benefit local charities in each town.

Tour dates:

• Thursday, Jan. 23 at Merryman Performing Arts Center in Kearney

• Friday, Jan. 24 at Wahoo High School in Wahoo

• Saturday, Jan. 25 at Central City Senior High School in Central City

• Friday, Feb. 14 at Pawnee City High School in Pawnee City

• Saturday, Feb. 15 at Prichard Auditorium in Falls City

• Thursday, Feb. 27 at the Johnny Carson Theater in Norfolk

• Friday, Feb. 28 at York High School in York

• Saturday, March 1 at Midwest Theater in Scottsbluff

• Sunday, March 2 at Chadron State College in Chadron

(KNZA)--Everest-based Rainbow Communications has announced several grant awards through their Community Grant Program.

According to a release, a $5,000 grant to the Hiawatha Police Department will fund an annual license fee for advanced digital forensics software. The software will aid the Department in conducting in-depth investigations involving internet-related crimes and digital evidence.

Rainbow has also awarded a $4,630 grant to the Nemaha County Historical Society, in Seneca. The release says the grant will enable the historical society to modernize its technology infrastructure, allowing for an upgraded router system and the integration of cloud-based software specifically designed to enhance the preservation and accessibility of local historical records.

In addition, Rainbow has awarded a $3,545 grant to Armor Academy, in Everest, for the purchase of a Clear Touch Interactive Learning Board. The release says the state-of-the art tool is designed to promote dynamic, hands-on learning in classrooms.

(KAIR)--A 34-year-old Atchison woman is facing charges in connection with the weekend theft of Ford Focus.

A release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the 72-year-old owner of the car reported to Atchison Police, Saturday evening, that it had been stolen from the 400 block of Mound Street by a person known to her.

The investigation was launched, and the car was recovered that evening, with police then led to the suspect, Mary McDonald, who was arrested Saturday night.

Taken into custody for theft, McDonald was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KMZA)--A man has been sentenced in Pottawatomie County to 12 years and one month in prison in connection with the 2023 fentanyl overdose death of another man.

The Wamego Times reports 20-year-old Noah Baker, of Junction City, was sentenced Friday in Pottawatomie County District Court on a charge of distribution of a controlled substance, resulting in death.

After serving his prison sentence, Baker will be placed on 36 months post-release supervision and will be required to register as a violent offender.

A jury found Baker guilty of the charge in August.

He was charged in connection with the death of 18-year-old Thomas Deloach at a Manhattan motel in May 2023.

Two others were previously sentenced in the case.

(KLZA)-- The Pawnee City Council received information about two grants awarded to the community totaling more than one million dollars when they met last week.

Pawnee City has been awarded a $480,000 Community Development Block Grant for public works which will help with the costs of street improvements including a culvert repair and drainage improvements on 17th Street near the fairgrounds, work on E Street from 14th to 16th and work on 15th Street from E to F Streets.

The projects are expected to done in the summer of 2025.

The CDBG grant will require a $130,000 match from the city.

The second grant, totals $535,000 through the Rural Community Recovery Program. The grant funds will help acquire two dilapidated buildings in downtown Pawnee City to be razed. City Clerk Tammy Curtis said that the area will become Tranquility Park and will include the construction of a gazeebo and installing and benches.

A portion of the grant funds will be used to improve Van Horne Park on the south side of Pawnee City.

The remaining funds will help cover the costs of improvements to the Pawnee City Swimming Pool to include the replacement of two ladders in the pool, the two diving boards and repair the steps in the shallow end and sandblast and re-coat the pool.

In other business, the Pawnee City Council approved the expenditure of $4,000 to pay for fireworks for the 4th of July celebration. By making the purchase now, the city will received 15% discount. The Pawnee City Chamber of Commerce will reimburse the City for the fireworks purchase.

(KAIR)--The Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas is among 12 communities, in 10 states, awarded a portion of $412,448 in competitive grants "to improve transportation for underserved populations, especially older adults and individuals with disabilities in rural areas."

That's according to a release from the Tribe, which says the funds come through the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, with each grantee to "receive up to $35,000 to develop plans addressing transportation barriers, future needs, and partnerships while actively involving older adults and people with disabilities," with the plans intended to "guide the implementation of equitable and accessible transportation strategies in their communities."

The release credits Chrissy Conklin, Elder- Program Director, "for writing the grant that will allow the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas to develop solutions for improved transportation access for medical appointments, official business, and social activities, including a safe walking path for older adults and individuals with disabilities."

(KLZA)-- Three people were killed and three others were injured in a 4-vehicle wreck on Interstate 29 in Atchison County, Missouri Sunday morning.

According to a report from the Missouri Highway Patrol, a Freemont County, Iowa Sheriff's deputy was pursing a Kia Sorento driven by a 29-year-old Bellevue, Nebraska man who was southbound in the northbound lanes of Interstate-29 about six miles north of Watson.

The Kia struck a northbound Ford Focus driven by an 18-year-old man from Kearney, Missouri head-on.

The report indicates the Kia traveled off the west side road, where it struck a bridge abutment and caught fire. The Ford Focus traveled off the west side of the road and overturned, ejecting an occupant.

A northbound semi truck driven by 30-year-old man from Ontario, Canada swerved avoid the two vehicles but struck the sheriff's deputy's vehicle.

The 18-year-old driver of the Kia and an 18-year-old female passenger in the Ford Focus ,along with the 19-year-old driver of the Focus, were pronounced dead at the scene of the wreck.

An 18-year-old female passenger in the Focus was airlifted to the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. A 1-year-old child in the Kia and the sheriff's deputy were transported by ambulance to a hospital in Hamburg, Iowa for the treatment of injuries.

Interstate 29 was closed to traffic at the scene of the wreck until about 2:15 Sunday afternoon.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff's Office is alerting residents of a scam circulating in the area regarding an official looking text/e-mail message from what appears to be the Kansas Turnpike.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant the message states it is from Drive KS and that a recent journey on the Kansas Express Lane has resulted in charges of $4.15.

There is also a contact link to settle the account.

Merchant says this is scam and urges residents not to reply to the message.

(KNZA)--A Sunday evening one-vehicle Brown County crash claimed the life of a Hiawatha man.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 36 Highway at Goldfinch Road, about 4 1/2 miles east of Fairview.

According to the KHP report, 76-year-old Richard Childress was eastbound approaching Goldfinch Road, when for an unknown reason, his Kia Sorento left the roadway to the north. The vehicle then traveled eastbound in the ditch, striking a highway sign and then Goldfinch Road. The SUV vaulted and overturned multiple times.

Childress, who was ejected from the vehicle, was pronounced dead at the scene.

He was alone in his vehicle when the crash occurred around 8:30 Sunday evening.

The Patrol says he was not wearing a seat belt.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board heard the findings of a review of the HVAC system needs within the district when they met November 11th.

Spencer Brinkmeyer, with Building Controls and Services ( BCS), said the major need is to upgrade the six variable refrigerant flow ( VRF) systems at the elementary school due to their age and performance issues.

He outlined several possible solutions, and recommended going with a mini-splits option that would allow for ease of maintenance and improved temperature control within classrooms.

The cost of the mini-splits option was placed at between $250,000 to $420,000 per system, depending on the number of indoor units needing replacement.

Brinkmeyer said the equipment should last 10 to 12 years and comes with a manufacturer's warranty.

The next step will be to walk the facility again and determine which units are in most critical need of being replaced.

(KNZA)--A Friday evening three-vehicle Jefferson County crash sent two people to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-4 Highway, 1.5 miles south of Meriden, around 6:30.

According to the KHP report, a southbound car driven by 75-year-old Gordon Smith, of Ozawkie, was stopped on K-4 waiting to turn onto 62nd Street when it was rear-ended by a southbound pickup truck driven by 21-year-old Brayden Adams, of Meriden. The pickup then crossed into the northbound lane where was struck by a third vehicle.

Smith and Adams were both transported to a Topeka hospital with suspected minor injuries.

The driver of the third vehicle and a passenger, both from Pennsylvania, were not hurt.

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

(KNZA)--An early Friday afternoon two-vehicle Brown County wreck sent a Sabetha woman to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened at the intersection of U.S. 75 Highway and K-246 , just north of Sabetha, shortly after 1:00.

According to the KHP report, 41-year-old Janelle Kaster was driving a westbound Jeep Patriot on K-246 when she failed to yield to a northbound Dodge Challenger on U.S. 75 and struck the vehicle broadside.

Kaster was transported to the Sabetha Community Hospital with suspected minor injuries.

The driver of the Dodge, 29-year-old Augusta resident Avery Vanbuskirk, was not hurt.

There were two passengers in his car. The Patrol report indicates one of the passenger's suffered possible injuries, but was not transported for hospitalized treatment.

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

(KLZA)-- Investigators with the Nebraska State Patrol were in Pawnee County this week as part of the continuing investigation into the disappearance of Linda Dillard who disappeared June 16, 2021.

Dillard who lived in the Fairbury area was with friends in Pawnee County on June 16, 2021, the last time she was seen.

The State Patrol believes Dillard and friends were drinking and smoking meth at a farmstead east of Table Rock. A wig belonging to Dillard was located as well as clothes belonging to her during a search of that property.

Investigators were told by people who were at the farm that Dillard and a man had an argument and she left and has not been seen since. The State Patrol believes Dillard may have been the victim of a crime which led to her disappearance.

NSP spokesman Cody Thomas asks that anyone with information about the disappearance of 55-year-old Linda Dillard contact Nebraska Crime Stoppers at Nebraskacrimestoppers.com.

Thomas said there is nothing new to report on the investigation.

(KAIR)--Special recognition for the Kickapoo Housing Authority, with the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas saying they're honored to announce their selection as a recipient of the 2024 Native American Housing Initiative Award.

According to a release, the recognition highlights the housing authority's "dedication to addressing critical housing needs and improving the quality of life within the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas community."

The release explains that "the funding provided through this award will support [the Kickapoo Housing Authority's] efforts to expand housing opportunities, enhance infrastructure, and foster long-term community development," adding that the housing authority "remains committed to providing safe, affordable housing and promoting community development for members of the Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas."

(MSC News)--With winter fast approaching, the Kansas Department for Children and Families is beginning it's Low Income Energy Assistance Program early for Kansans.

According to a release from the agency, state residents needing assistance with winter energy bills will be able to begin applying for the program, known as LIEAP, on Monday. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 on the evening of March 31.

LIEAP, the release explains, provides a one-time per year benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating costs, whether the home is heated with electricity, natural gas, propane, or other home heating fuels. In 2024, over 40,000 Kansas households received an average benefit of $645.

To qualify, households must have an adult at the address responsible for the home's heating costs. Applicants must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. The level of benefit received varies according to household income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel, and utility rates.

DCF and partnering energy companies are planning in-person events to help Kansans submit their LIEAP applications.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Postmaster Montana Jones is warning of a recent uptick in what is called "smishing".

Smishing is scam text messages attempting to gain information from those who don't realize what is happening.

These messages say things such as:

USPS - The package has arrived at the warehouse and cannot be delivered due to incomplete address information. Then asks the postal customer to confirm their address at the link: agxeus.cc.

Newer versions are saying within 24 hours a response is needed to increase the sense of urgency.

The postal service does not have warehouses, and if we they come across a package with an incomplete address; it would likely be returned to the sender.

The post office would leave a notice form 3849 in the mailbox or on your door if there was any postage due for an article of mail.

Be aware that the postal service will never send a text message asking for personal information.
The link in the message will send you to a site which will eventually ask for credit card information.

These sites look very similar to usps.com but the URL is typically very different.

Do not input card information in these sites. If you have, please contact your financial institution.

Fraudulent messages such as these should be reported to the United States Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455 or at uspis.gov.

(KMZA)--Marshall County voters have approved the continuation of a half-cent sales tax for Community Memorial Healthcare in Marysville for an additional five years by an 8-vote margin.

That's the outcome after the Marshall County Commission met Thursday to canvass ballots from the November 5th election.

The sales tax was approved by a vote of 2,374 to 2,366.

Unofficial results election night saw the sales tax trailing by an 8-vote margin. However, there were 164 provisional ballots yet to be considered.

The sales tax was initially approved by voters in November 2019 for five years, and needed to be approved by voters again to continue.

In 2023, the sales tax generated more than $1.2 million in revenue for the hospital.

(KLZA)--A Beatrice, Nebraska man accused of killing his partner and holding his children hostage has pleaded not guilty to charges.

51-year-old Christopher Milke entered the not guilty Wednesday in Gage County Court to charges of second degree murder, use of a firearm to commit a felony and two counts of kidnapping.

Milke is accused of shooting and killing 52-year-old Tammy Leslie at their Beatrice home on September 8th. He then allegedly took the phones of his 19-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son, sealing the exits of the home to prevent them from leaving.

The daughter called authorities after Milke fell asleep, which led to a raid by the Beatrice Police Department to rescue the children.

Officers found Leslie dead with multiple gunshot wounds.

She previously lived in Stella and was a graduate of Southeast Consolidated High School.

Milke remains in jail without bond. A bond review hearing is scheduled for November 21, with a pretrial scheduled for December 18.

(KAIR)--More than half of Atchison County's registered voters cast ballots in the November 5 election, along with a high number of advance ballots cast.

That was explained Tuesday by Atchison County Clerk Michelle Phillips, meeting with the Atchison County Commission, acting as the Board of Canvassers, with the ballots reviewed for the canvass.

Once the review of provisional, or questionable, ballots was complete, and the other ballots canvassed, there was no substantial change in the outcome of races, as seen election night.

Following the discussion, and detailed outline of the provisional ballots by Phillips, Commissioner Eric Noll called for the vote to finalize the canvass.

The amended and finalized results, as approved by the Board, are posted to the Atchison County website.

The only contested, key Atchison County race on November 5 was that of Atchison County Sheriff, with incumbent Jack Laurie challenged, through write-in campaign, by Adam Potts. Potts, a fellow Republican to Laurie, attempted unsuccessfully to defeat him in the August primary election. The finalized numbers, following Tuesday's canvass, shows Potts receiving 1,700 votes to Laurie's 4,741 in the November 5 election.

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(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission heard an update from Morrill Public Library Director Erin Verbick when they meet Tuesday evening.

She said they've had a great turnout at fall events so far, and had a good attendance for their summer programs.

After its modernization, the library elevator is up and running.

Verbick said the Friends of the Library book sale went exceptionally well, with more than $1,800 raised.

She said they have been awarded two grants from the Northeast Kansas Library System. A $15,000 grant will be used for an outdoor revitalization project. As part of the project, Hiawatha Elementary School art teacher Kate Miller will do a mural of the south wall of library, landscaping will be added around the perimeter of the building and a metal awning installed over the south door. The library was also awarded a $5,000 grant for an adult services project.

In other business, the Commission voted 3-1 to donate $5,000 to the Brown County Humane Society to help with the spaying and neutering of pets. Commissioner Brian Shefferd cast the dissenting vote. Commissioner Toni Hull was absent.

Also at the meeting, the Commission agreed to have City Administrator Brad Scott solicit bids for a used pickup for the Parks and Recreation Department. The city had previously received bids for a new truck and wanted to see what a used truck would cost before making a decision..

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(KLZA)-- News outlet Politico has reported that Falls City cattle producer Charles Herbster is among several candidates being considereed to serve as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President-elect Donald Trump.

Herbster served as an Agriculture adviser to Trump during his first term and donated more than $450,000 to support Trumps run for the presidency according to Federal Election Commission filings. He served as chairman of the Rural Americans for Trump during the recent campaign.

Herbster spent $11 million on a campaign for governor in Nebraska in 2022, finishing second in the Republican primary. During the campaign Herbster was accused by eight women alleging that he groped them. No charges were ever filed.

Herbster is the owner of Herbser Angus Farms in Falls City and would be the first Nebraskan to serve as U.S. Ag Secretary since Mike Johanns resigned as Governor in 2005 to serve two years under President George W. Bush.

(KMZA)--A group Seneca residents appeared at last week city council meeting to voice their concerns about the potential location of back-up generators for a proposed new electric substation.

One of the Seneca Jaycee's ball field's, in the southwest portion of town, has been identified as the best site for project.

The residents cited noise and safety concerns, along with concerns about the close proximity to a residential neighborhood and loss of space for children to play ball. The residents urged the city to find another location.

City Administrator Steve Brooks said plans are to re-locate the ball field to Skoch Park.

Mayor Joe Mitchell told the group the Council had not made a decision yet on the proposed project.

A representative from the Kansas Municipal Energy Agency provided update cost figures for the project.

The Council was told the project would allow the city to get off Evergy's distribution system and potential high interconnect costs, saving the city around $750,000 a year. It was stated that the generators would only run a few hours a year and new technology would mean they would be quieter than generators in the past.

The Council took no action.

(KAIR)--Projects made possible through a bond issue approved earlier this year by voters in Atchison's USD 409, are making progress, with some underway, while others await start dates.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Renee Nugent, in a post to social media this week, said passersby the underway baseball field construction can see the signs of progress.

With renderings shown, in the social media video post, of the future upgrades to the Atchison Elementary School, Nugent says bids will soon be accepted:

Among the AES work will be a new entrance and preschool facility, as well as an upgrade for the nurses office.

The start of facility roof upgrades is also forthcoming, but delayed due to recent weather conditions.

Atchison voters, through mail in ballot early this year, gave approval to the $27.3 million dollar bond issue for the enhancements and upgrades, including that for student safety.

(KAIR)--One driver required treatment, while the other was cited, following a two vehicle, Wednesday afternoon crash at Atchison's 9th and Commercial streets intersection.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, a car, southbound on 9th Street, and driven by 71-year-old Atchison resident Robert McCourtney, after stopping at the stop sign, "proceeded into the intersection to head east onto Commercial Street." That's when his car collided with a pickup truck, that was westbound on Commercial Street, driven by 17-year-old Effingham resident Trisha Miller.

She was treated at the scene by Atchison County EMS, with Wilson saying she was then taken, by private vehicle, for examination at Amberwell Atchison.

According to Wilson, McCourtney was cited for failure to yield.

The wreck happened around 2:00 Wednesday afternoon.

(KAIR)--One driver required treatment, while the other was cited, following a two vehicle, Wednesday afternoon crash at Atchison's 9th and Commercial streets intersection.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, a car, southbound on 9th Street, and driven by 71-year-old Atchison resident Robert McCourtney, after stopping at the stop sign, "proceeded into the intersection to head east onto Commercial Street." That's when his car collided with a pickup truck, that was westbound on Commercial Street, driven by 17-year-old Effingham resident Trisha Miller.

She was treated at the scene by Atchison County EMS, with Wilson saying she was then taken, by private vehicle, for examination at Amberwell Atchison.

According to Wilson, McCourtney was cited for failure to yield.

The wreck happened around 2:00 Wednesday afternoon.

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(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission Tuesday adopted by resolution a comprehensive plan for the county.

The county Planning Commission approved the plan last week following a public hearing.

The plan was developed by consultant Dick Horton, with public input.

It's a long-range guide for land use development and redevelopment patterns, infrastructure, transportation and mobility, housing diversity and land use.

Development of a comprehensive plan began in June 2023. The process was formalized by the creation of Planning Commission in April of this year.

In other business, Patty Merchant, with the Brown County Historical Society, presented a bid from Trutech Wildlife Serivce, of Kansas City, for the removal of bats from the Historical Society's museum in downtown Hiawatha. The Commission approved the bid in the amount of $12,309.

On the recommendation of Services of the Elderly Director Wanda Davis, the Commission on a 2-1 vote approved a contract with Lentz Express Catering, of Horton, to provide meals for the county's meals on wheels program for 2025. Lentz's Express is the current provider. Commissioner Bill Pollock cast the dissenting vote, saying he felt bids should be sought to provide the meals.

(KAIR)--More than $91,000 is awarded to Atchison County through the 2024 Rural EMS Program grant.

A release from the county of Atchison calls the funding "a huge win for our community, allowing us to enhance emergency medical services, upgrade essential equipment, and continue providing high-quality, life-saving care to our residents."

According to Atchison County Finance Director Mark Zeltner, the specific use of the funds, as determined by him and the Chief of Medical Services, is the installation of a ventilator and accompanying accessories for each of Atchison County EMS's four ambulances. Zeltner, who calls that a costly, but vital, expense, tells MSC News it was "the best expense for this funding that met all the criteria," adding that the installation will be "a perfect fit, especially without needing to tax the citizens for this" purchase.

The release from the County states that the awarding of the funds, coupled with community support, helps to make "Atchison County a safer, healthier place for all."

Zeltner says the Rural EMS grant, totaling $91,629 earmarked for Atchison County, is administered by the Patterson Family Foundation, whose website describes the Rural EMS 2024 Program as "a competitive grant to fund equipment, protective gear, training and certification, and/or operational expenses needed by EMS and first responder teams across the Patterson Family Foundation- Kansas and western Missouri philanthropic catchment."

(KNZA)--Rainbow Communications General Manager Jason Smith is among seven that have been recognized by K-State- Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development as 2024 Huck Boyd Leaders of the Year.

According to a release from K-State Research and Extension, Smith was recognized as the 2024 Huck Boyd Leader of the Year in Technology. He was honored for his outstanding dedication to expanding broadband access in rural Kansas.

Smith took over as CEO and general manager of the Everest-based telecommunications company in 2016. During his time with the company, the release says Rainbow has grown from serving 1,500 customers to nearly 10,000 locations. The release adds Rainbow Communications is so active in providing broadband in its service area that it was one of 10 companies in the nation to earn the Smart Rural Community Showcase Award.

Also locally, Alex Parker, owner and founder of Circle P Processing, in Waterville, was named as the 2024 Huck Boyd Leader of the year in Agribusiness.

The winners were recognized at an awards luncheon on November 5 in Manhattan.

They were selected by entrepreneurship students in K-State- College of Business and by agricultural communications students in K-State- College of Agriculture. Each year the Huck Boyd Institute selects its leaders of the year from among those featured previously on its weekly Kansas Profile radio program and column.

(KAIR)--A crack sealing project is set to start in Atchison County today, with the Kansas Department of Transportation saying the work on U.S. Highway 59 will mean delays for motorists.

According to a release from KDOT, "the 14-mile project extends from the Atchison/Jefferson county line to the southern city limit of Atchison."

Traffic will be restricted to one lane, 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 by the end of this month, conditions permitting.

Pavement Pro-, LLC, of McPherson, is the prime contractor on the $70,000 project.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Board of Education adopted the Strategic Plan Goals for 2024-2025 when they met Monday evening.

The plan focuses on raising student achievement through targeted initiatives aimed at enhancing learning and aims to ensure continued progress and effectiveness, positioning the Falls City School District for future success.

Key goals outlined are:

Student Achievement and Well-being: which includes improving performance in Language Arts and Math; Strengthening Special Education and behavioral support services, expanding extracurricular and youth activities and enhanced student safety and well being.

Facilities & Infrastructure: Aligning facilities with educational goals and best practices, evaluating building configurations and planning for space reconfigurations and renovations. and assessing and improving safety security and compliance and development of a long-term master plan to expand Career and Technical Education and Early Childhood Education spaces.

Addressing Educator Shortages: District 56 will implement strategies to attract and retain high-quality teachers and staff.

School Finance and Resources: The goal is to sustain district programs despite funding challenges and recent legislation impacts.

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Department of Economic Development has awarded $8.3 million in Community Development Block Grant funds to twenty-three projects in eighteen communities—including Falls City and Pawnee City.

Falls City will receive a $458,000 grant for a municipal sanitary sewer improvement project, while Pawnee City will receive a $480,000 grant for a street improvement project and to address drainage issues.

The CDBG program provides funds to help communities tackle projects that enhance public health and safety, economic well-being, local vitality, and quality of life.

The program is federally funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

(KLZA)--The Peru Theatre Company has announced the inaugural Peru State College Bobcat One-Act Competition will take place on Friday, November 15, at the Performing Arts Center on the Peru State campus.

This exciting new event will showcase eight high school one-act teams from the Southeast Nebraska area, including Auburn, Beatrice, Falls City Sacred Heart, Johnson-Brock, and Pawnee City.

The competition begins at 9:00 a.m. with performances continuing throughout the day. Admission is free for Peru State College students, faculty, and staff, while general admission is $5. Community members are encouraged to come out, support high school theatre programs, and celebrate the talent and dedication of young performers in Southeast Nebraska.

Peru Theatre Company Vice President Lucas Hrabik spearheaded the competition, has been an active member of Nebraska- one-act and speech community for many years, including four years as a competitor and two as a registered judge with the Nebraska School Activities Association.

(KLZA)--The Peru Theatre Company has announced the inaugural Peru State College Bobcat One-Act Competition will take place on Friday, November 15, at the Performing Arts Center on the Peru State campus.

This exciting new event will showcase eight high school one-act teams from the Southeast Nebraska area, including Auburn, Beatrice, Falls City Sacred Heart, Johnson-Brock, and Pawnee City.

The competition begins at 9:00 a.m. with performances continuing throughout the day. Admission is free for Peru State College students, faculty, and staff, while general admission is $5. Community members are encouraged to come out, support high school theatre programs, and celebrate the talent and dedication of young performers in Southeast Nebraska.

Peru Theatre Company Vice President Lucas Hrabik spearheaded the competition, has been an active member of Nebraska- one-act and speech community for many years, including four years as a competitor and two as a registered judge with the Nebraska School Activities Association.

(KAIR)--Bids have been approved by the Kansas Department of Transportation for state highway construction and maintenance projects, with the local counties of Atchison, Brown, Jackson, and Jefferson to see future improvements.

According to a release from the agency, two projects are now approved, and forthcoming, for Atchison County, including 6.6 miles of milling and overlay work on U.S. Highway 73, from the east city limits of Lancaster north to the Atchison/Brown County Line.
Topeka-based Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Inc., was awarded the near $1.5 million contract for the work.

Also approved for Atchison County is the removal of bridge number 16, on U.S. 73, located just south of the U.S. 73/U.S. 59 junction.
The more than $878,000 bid was awarded to Leavenworth's Julius Kaaz Construction Company Inc.

In Brown County, 8.4 miles of milling and overlay on U.S. 73, from the Atchison/Brown county line west to the east city limits of Horton, is approved for a future start date.
Bettis Asphalt & Construction Inc., of Topeka, is awarded the $1.8 million contract for the project.

Jackson County will see 8 miles of U.S. 75, from the Shawnee/Jackson County line north to 158th Road, milled and overlayed, with Bettis Asphalt awarded that $6.5 million contract.

The same company was awarded contracts for four, forthcoming Jefferson County projects, including 7.7 miles of milling and overlay along U.S. 24, from the Elm Street/U.S. 24 junction, in the City of Perry, east to the Jefferson/Douglas county line. The awarded contract was for $1.9 million.

A contract of $2.7 million was awarded for the milling and overlay of 12 miles of K-92, from the K-92/K-4 junction east to the west city limits of Oskaloosa.

A near $2.2 million contract is awarded to the Topeka company for more than 10 miles of milling and overlay on U.S. 59, from the U.S. 24/U.S. 59 junction, north to the south city limits of Oskaloosa.

The final of the four Jefferson County projects will including milling and overlay of just over a half-mile of U.S. 159, from the K-4/U.S. 159 junction north to the Jefferson/Atchison County Line.
Bettis was awarded the more than $319,000 contract for the work.

The bids were opened by KDOT last month.

Project start times aren't immediately finalized.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth motorcyclist was killed Monday afternoon in a two-vehicle wreck in Leavenworth County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says 22-year-old Trevor White was southbound on U.S. 73 Highway in the city of Lansing when his motorcycle struck the passenger side doors of a northbound car that was turning west onto Fairlane Street.

White was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the car, 89-year-old Leavenworth resident George Steger, was not hurt. However a passenger in his car, identified 73-year-old Karen Ferengel, was transported to a Kansas City hospital with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says White was not wearing a helmet, but both occupants in the car were wearing seat belts when the wreck occurred shortly after 2:45 Monday afternoon.

(KAIR)-A 36-year-old St. Joseph, Missouri man has died from wounds suffered in a Sunday shooting.

KQ2-TV reports police are investigating the shooting as a targeted homicide.

Officers responded to a call about shot being fired near North 20th and Jules Street shortly after noon Sunday. Officers discovered a man inside a vehicle suffering from a gunshot wound.

The victim was transported to Mosaic Life Care for treatment, but died later.

The victim's name has been been released as the investigation continues.

No suspect is in custody.

(KNZA)--A former St. Joseph, Missouri middle school teacher has been sentenced to 10 years in prison on a charge of first-degree sodomy.

Everett Harding was sentenced last week in a Buchanan County courtroom.

KQ2-TV reports the state had recommended a sentence of 50 years due to the nature of the crime. The minimum sentence for the crime is five years.

Harding must serve at least eight years and six months before he can be considered for parole.

He pleaded guilty to the charge in September.

Harding 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 .

(KNZA)--Eric Ketchum has been selected as the vice president of academic affairs at Highland Community College.

Previously, Ketchum served as the interim vice president of academic affairs at HCC, where he has been a dedicated educator for over 11-years, teaching Psychology courses.

Prior to his career in higher education, Ketchum spent seven-years as a licensed school psychologist across Kansas, where he applied his expertise to support students’ mental health and educational needs.

He holds bachelor degrees in both psychology and sociology from Kansas State University, as well as a master- and education specialist degree in school psychology from Emporia State University.

The college said in a release that Ketchum's extensive background in psychology combined with his teaching experience in the classroom, positions him as a leader in the success and growth of the academic community at HCC.

(KLZA)-- Falls City hosted the annual Veterans Day Program at the Falls City High School gymnasium Monday morning at 11. U.S. Navy Veerans Fred Sikora wsa the guest speaker for the program.

Following the program the annual Veteran's Day Parade traveled down Stone Street.

A good crowd attended to honor those who have served in the U.S. Milinatry.

(KLZA)-- Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Falls City is encouraging parents and youth to attend a program entitled Hidden in Our Heartland, The Fight Against Sex Trafficking in Nebraska on Tuesday night, November 12 at 6:30.

The program, sponsored by the Catholic Daughters and Knights of Columbus will be held in O'Connor Hall. There is no charge to attend.

Sex trafficking exists throughout Nebraska in both cities and the rural areas.

The program by Paul Yates, Executive Director of "I've Got A Name has been fighting sex trafficking internationally and locally for 16 years.

Bob Burton, a native of Falls City is the founder of the I've Got A Name program.

(KAIR)--An elderly Atchison woman is dead, following a two-vehicle, Sunday afternoon Atchison wreck.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 87-year-old Edwarda Sukow was transported from the scene of the 6th and Green Street wreck, by Atchison County EMS, and taken to Amberwell Atchison. She was then taken to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, Missouri, and subsequently taken to the University of Kansas Medical Center, in Kansas City, Kansas, where she died Sunday night, around 10:20.

Sukow was, according to Wilson, the driver of a car that, around 1:30 Sunday afternoon, entered the intersection, traveling eastbound on Green Street, and struck another car, that had been southbound on 6th Street.

The driver of that second car, 50-year-old Kimberly Thomas, of Atchison, was also taken to Amberwell Atchison, by EMS, for the treatment of her injuries.

(KLZA)-- A Council Bluffs, Iowa man was seriously injured in a wreck Sunday evening when the motorcycle he was driving struck a deer on Highway AA about 3 miles north of Rock Port, Missouri.

After impact, the motorcycle skidded across the road and traveled off the side of the roadway.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the 48-year-old driver was transported to the Fairfax Community Hospital then later taken by Lifeflight to the Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

The Patrol no longer releases the identity of those involved in wrecks in an attempt to reduce accident reports from being used in scam attempts..

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Chamber of Commerce held their annual banquet Thursday night at the Eagles Club in Auburn.

Chamber Executive Director Leslie Clark presented the annual awards.

Catholic Social Services St. Francis Gift and Thrift Shop was named the Business of the Year.

A new award, The Golden Hive Award was presented to The Farmers Wife. The award focuses more on tourism and customer service due to the importance of them to the community.

The Emerging Leader of the Year Award was presented to Treats by Ashley; The Community Engaged Business of the Year is the Auburn Memorial Library and the Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Neighbor to Neighbor.

The Auburn Chamber was named a Certified, Creative District recently and the Auburn Summer Sounds Concert Series was presented the 2024 Event of the Year from the Nebraska Chamber Association.

The theme for the banquet was The Chamber of Curiosities.

(KNZA)--Holton Community Hospital is honored to announce it has received a 2024 Performance Leadership Award for excellence in Patient Perspective from The Chartis Center for Rural Health. This prestigious award, presented on National Rural Health Day, recognizes Holton Community Hospital- commitment to delivering exceptional care and positive patient experiences as one of the top-performing rural hospitals in the nation.

The Performance Leadership Awards are based on findings from the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®, which measures and benchmarks rural hospitals’ performance in critical areas impacting healthcare quality, outcomes, and patient satisfaction. Holton Community Hospital- placement in the top quartile (75th percentile or above) reflects its dedication to delivering personalized, compassionate care within the community.

“As part of National Rural Health Day, we are proud to celebrate the incredible work being done in rural healthcare,” said Troy Brown, Network Consultant for The Chartis Center for Rural Health. “The Performance Leadership Awards underscore the commitment and innovation of rural hospitals like Holton Community Hospital that prioritize quality and patient-centered care every day.”

National Rural Health Day, observed on November 21, 2024, highlights the dedication and innovation of rural healthcare providers who work tirelessly to ensure access to quality care in rural communities across America. Created by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH), this day celebrates the ‘Power of Rural’ and acknowledges the unique healthcare challenges faced by rural populations. Holton Community Hospital is proud to be recognized on this significant day, joining countless rural hospitals nationwide in striving for excellence and compassionate patient care.

This recognition aligns with Holton Community Hospital- mission to provide compassionate, hometown care that strengthens the health of our community. As a community hospital, we are proud to stand alongside our peers in rural healthcare, serving with the highest standards of quality and patient trust.

(MSC News)--Ten nominees are vying to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Jefferson County.

The vacancy 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.

According to a release from the Kansas Courts, the 2nd Judicial District Nominating Commission will meet on November 20th at the Jefferson County Courthouse, in Oskaloosa, to interview the nominees.

The nominees include:

• Daniel Brenner, Holton, owner of Diamonds by Design and commissioner, Jackson County Commission

• Miranda Cohen, Lawrence, court reporter, 2nd Judicial District and instructor at Kansas Voice Writing Institute/Peaslee Tech

• Dennis Entrikin, Hiawatha, chief of police, Horton Police Department

• Angela Hecke, Marysville, district magistrate judge, 22nd Judicial District

• Michael Jones, Perry, attorney, private practice

• Amy Medeiros, Topeka, assistant county attorney, Jackson County

• Aspen Nelson, Meriden, intensive supervision officer, Jackson County

• Darla Ottensmeier, Oskaloosa, attorney, private practice

• Wade Schneider, Meriden, manager of criminal investigations unit, Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission

• Brian Yearout, Topeka, deputy county attorney, Pottawatomie County

(KMZA)--Governor Laura Kelly has announced that $500,000 has been awarded to eight entities across Kansas for projects that will attract and retain employees and build the state workforce through registered apprenticeships.

Among the grant awardees is the Seneca-based Kansas Rural Water Association, which will receive a just over $54,000 grant.

The grants, administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, assist existing registered apprenticeship programs with technical instruction, on-the-job training, and staffing to implement and manage programs, marketing and outreach, and other activities.

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said the state is experiencing an increase in high-demand job opportunities, and the grants will provide businesses with more tools to develop and maintain a highly skilled and valuable workforce.

(KLZA)--The Colonial Acres Community Support Group is continuing efforts to raise funds to keep the city-owned nursing home and assisted living facility in Humboldt open.

Currently the nursing home is in good shape following a reshaping of the budget with occupancy increasing and the assisted living side full of residents. There are more rooms available on the nursing home side if persons are interested.

Colonial Acres opened 55 years ago and recently received a 5-star rating. The facility is city owned which is considered a huge advantage over a corporate owned facility in making decisions on the future and care.

Colonial Acres is the second largest employer in Humboldt with approximately 70 employees, making it very important to the area economy. The staff is mostly local residents.

Area residents, businesses and groups have been generous is helping to solve the nursing homes cash flow issues. Approximately $100,000 in gifts and pledges have been raised so far to support the nursing home facility.

The Colonial Acres Community Support Group has set their goal of raising $300,000, hopefully by the end of 2024. They are reaching out to people, asking them to see the importance in the operation of the nursing home in Humboldt.

With the end of 2024 getting near, anyone or business looking to make donations are asked to consider the Colonial Acres Nursing Home as a place to help out. Donations can be made to the Humboldt Area Community Foundation, a non-profit organization that can accept tax deductible donations.

For more information or to make a donation, questions can be directed to the Humboldt Area Community Foundation. Deb Lewis is the treasurer and you may contact her at American National Bank in Humboldt. You can drop off a donation or call her at 402-862-2311 to get more information.

Checks can be mailed to, Humboldt Area Community Foundation, Box 373, Humboldt, NE. 68376 or given in person to Deb Lewis at American National Bank in Humboldt.

(KLZA)--Community Medical Center in Falls City will host a Health Fair Tuesday from 4 - 6 p.m. at the Southeast Community College Learning Center located at 3200 Bill Schock Blvd.

The event will be held from 4 - 6 p.m. and will include health screenings, blood pressure and blood sugar checks; flu shots; Medicare Enrollment information, with CMC Services including Special Medical Clinic representatives, Dr. Adam Striet an Orthopedic doctor; The Family Medicine Clinic; Chronic Care Management; Diabetes Wellness; Smoking Cessation; Behavior Health; physical, occupational and speech therapy services, dry needling and pelvic floor therapy and lymphedema.

Community Partners including Kobza Dental, Kex RX Pharmacy; Memory Care Support; SENCA; Senor Living, the Southeast District Health Department; Blue Rivers; Sixpence, Home Instead; Head Start; Acera Care and St. Croix Hospice.

There will be catered food on site.

(KAIR)--A fundraiser has been established for a Doniphan County firefighter who suffered serious injuries, leading to hospitalization, during a battle with a late October field fire.

Injured was volunteer firefighter Alan Boeh, the Assistant Fire Chief for the Troy Fire Department. Suffering 2nd and 3rd degree burns in the October 29 blaze, near Denton, Boeh, at last check, remained hospitalized in Kansas City.

Now, the Troy Fire Department has established "an account to accept donations to assist [Boeh] and his family through his recovery process."

The account comes after the department says many members of the community, as well as neighboring fire departments, reached out, asking for a way to offer assistance.

The donations may be made to: Account for the Benefit of Alan Boeh, c/o First Option Bank, 212 Main Street, Troy, Kansas, 66087. Donations can also be sent through Venmo to the address, Alan-Boeh-Benefit.

According to Doniphan County Emergency Management Coordinator Julie Meng, addressing the County Commission this week, the fire began on the west end of the county, north of Denton, then traveled over two miles to the Severance area, with all rural county fire districts responding, with assistance provided by Brown County fire departments and approximately 20 farmers and their equipment.

(KNZA)--Two Hiawatha residents were arrested on meth-related charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop Sunday afternoon shortly before 3:30 on a pickup truck on U.S. 75 Highway at 118th Road for alleged traffic infractions.

A search was conducted of the vehicle, which resulted in the alleged discovery of illegal narcotics and drug paraphernalia.

The driver, identified as 58-year-old Lisa McKinney, and her passenger, identified as 60-year-old Antonio Ramirez, were arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

(KNZA)--A charge of criminal use of an explosive has been dismissed against a Holton man.

Rex Larrision was arrested on the charge in April following a multiple day search of his property stemming from a missing person investigation and an investigation into the death of another person.

According to court documents, a preliminary hearing in the case, which had been set for this week in a Jackson County courtroom, was canceled after Jackson County attorney Jeff Morrow dismissed the charge.

Russian immigrant Yulia Larrison went missing in 2001, while Elena Larrison, also a Russian immigrant, was killed in a reported 2006 Holton accident.

The case remains under investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

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

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on U.S. 36 Highway, about one mile west of Hiawatha, shortly after 12:30.

According to the KHP report, 30-year-old Codie Horton, of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, was eastbound when her van traveled left of center and sideswiped a westbound semi truck.

Horton was transported to the University of Kansas Hospital, in Kansas City, with suspected serious injuries.

The semi driver, 40-year-old Blaine resident Cameron Moser, was not hurt.

The Patrol says Horton was not wearing a seat belt when the wreck occurred, but Moser was buckled up.

(KLZA)-- The entire community of Mound City, Missouri is under a boil water advisory until further notice.

An alert was sent out Thursday afternoon that a water main break had occurred at 7th Street and Highway 59 which led to the boil advisory being issued.

(KLZA)-- The entire community of Mound City, Missouri is under a boil water advisory until further notice.

An alert was sent out Thursday afternoon that a water main break had occurred at 7th Street and Highway 59 which led to the boil advisory being issued.

(KLZA)-- The entire community of Mound City, Missouri is under a boil water advisory until further notice.

An alert was sent out Thursday afternoon that a water main break had occurred at 7th Street and Highway 59 which led to the boil advisory being issued.

(KNZA)--Concerns regarding a gunman at the Everest Middle School, Thursday morning, "was [a] simple miscommunication that erred on the side of safety," with the initial investigation determining "that a credible threat was never present."

That word is delivered in a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, who says dispatchers, around 7:50 Thursday morning, "were alerted to a possible person with a gun" at the school and immediately alerted officers, leading to a response from, along with the Sheriff's Office, Horton Police, Kickapoo Police, and the Kansas Highway Patrol.

According to Merchant, "school personnel, students, and staff acted very quickly and appropriately per protocol to make sure all were safe and secure."

(KLZA)--The Farm Credit Services of America, Working Hear Fund recently awarded $62 thousand in grants to a number of area organizations.

Receiving funds were the Table Rock Fire Department, Steinauer Community Foundation, Pawnee County 4-H, the Johnson County 4-H Council, and Pawnee County Medical Foundation.

According to the Tecumseh Chieftan, the Steinauer Community Foundation purchased new gear for the Fire Department. The Table Rock Fire Department purchased new air packs; the Johnson County 4-H Council purchased new pens for the fairgrounds, and Pawnee County 4-H was able to purchase new programming and the Pawnee County Medical Foundation used their money towards the purchase of an autoload cart for the ambulance.

In all, nearly 200 organizations received grant funds during the second quarter of 2024, totaling more than $1.5 million.

(KAIR)--The Emergency Management Coordinator for Doniphan County is compiling an after action report pertaining to a late October wildfire that required a strong presence of fire fighters and left one firefighter hospitalized with serious injuries.

Coordinator Julie Meng is joined by fire districts and the forest service in compiling the report, and provided the Doniphan County Commission, on Monday, with an update regarding the blaze, which she said began on the west end of the county, north of Denton, then traveled over two miles to the Severance area.

According to Meng, all rural county fire districts responded to the October 29 fire, assisted by what the unofficial minutes of Monday's meeting calls "approximately twenty farmers, and fire departments from other districts in Brown County and Deputy Officer Jared Ratzlaff."

Meng, who said "somethings were done wrong, but a lot was done right," informed the Commission of the effects felt from a change in the county's emergency response, explaining that because the ambulance district is now a stand-alone agency, they were not dispatched to the scene of the fire until there was a report of injury. Prior to the change, the ambulance service, Meng said, was tied to a fire district, with the two arriving together at such an emergency.

Injured, and requiring that ambulance response, was District 5 firefighter Alan Boeh who, according to a Western Oklahoma social media page requesting prayers for a fellow firefighter, suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns and remains hospitalized, reportedly in a Kansas City hospital.

During Meng's update to the Commission, she explained that two homes were evacuated, and credited the firefighters who, despite strong winds, kept the fire from causing only minor damage to the outside siding of one of the two homes.

Meng, who said Red Cross is assisting homeowners with exterior and smoke damage, also credited the assistance of the area farmers who volunteered their services.

(KLZA)--The Peru State College Foundation and the Athletic Department will recognize the country's veterans and current service people Saturday, November 9 during the final home game of the 2024 season.

The Bobcat football team will host Grand Valley University at 1 p.m. at the Oak Bowl.

All Veterans and military personnel and their families will be admitted free tot he contest. In addition, they are invited to enjoy refreshments in one of the suites provided by the Foundation.

Saturday is also Senior Day for eight Bobcat football players. They will be recognized prior to the start of the game.

(KLZA)--Nebraska corn, sugar beet, and potato producers are encouraged to apply for the Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Program through their local Natural Resources District.

The program provides incentive payments for approved applicants who reduce their nitrogen application rates by 15% or 40 pounds per acre, whichever is less, with payments ranging from $10 to $15 per acre.

Priority areas and payment rates, established by the Department of Natural Resources, are as follows:

• Priority Area A: $15/acre for acres within a wellhead protection area or irrigated acres in a Phase II Area.

• Priority Area B: $12/acre for all other irrigated acres.

• Priority Area C: $10/acre for all other areas.

Producers can combine this program- incentives with other offers, such as those from NRCS, provided these entities allow.

Applications are open at local NRDs until January 15, 2025, and applicants will be notified of their status by March 15, 2025.

Approved applicants have until January 15, 2026, to document and verify their nitrogen reductions to qualify for payment.

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

The advisory was issued October 30th because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

KDHE said Thursday that laboratory testing samples collected from the Lakeside Village Improvement District indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed to be resolved.

( KNZA)--The jury trial for a Fort Worth, Texas man charged in connection with a fatal 2023 Jackson County crash that claimed the life of a Whiting woman has been pushed back to next year.

According to court documents, the trial for 45-year-old Ayinde-Jriel James, which had been scheduled for this week in Jackson County District Court, was continued at the request of his attorney. It was rescheduled for March 4-6.

James pleaded not guilty in June to felony counts of second-degree murder and third offense driving under the influence, along with misdemeanor counts of possession of marijuana and reckless driving.

James is charged in connection with an April 2023 crash on U.S. 75 Highway, about two miles north of Holton, that claimed the life of 74-year-old Melinda Wareham.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says James was traveling at excessive speeds and passing several vehicles before he crashed head-on into a vehicle driven by Wareham.

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

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Community Foundation will hold its fourth annual Thoughtful Giving Day” Sunday, November 10.

Area residents will have the opportunity to make donations to 34 non-profit organizations affiliated with the Foundation. Donations will be matched with up to $ 70,000 in available funding.

Donations can be made in-person Sunday afternoon from 12 noon to 3 at the Holton Community Theatre located at 401 New Jersey Avenue.

Donations can also be made on-line Friday through Sunday at thoughtfulgivingday.com where you can see a list of all the participating funds and organizations

In addition, donations can be mailed to P.O. Box 381, Holton, Kansas, 66436. They must be postmarked on or before Friday, November 15th.

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

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman required hospital transport following a two vehicle crash early Monday evening.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 44-year-old Kyesha Cluke was northbound on Atchison's 9th Street when an SUV, southbound on the street, was making a left turn onto Atchison Street. That's when, Wilson says, the two vehicles collided, leaving Cluke injured.

She was transported by Atchison County EMS to Amberwell Atchison for examination of her injuries.

The driver of the SUV, Atchison resident Kathryn Barr, was not hurt when the wreck happened around 5:00 Monday evening.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska First Legislative District voters elected Bob Halstrom from Syracuse to represent them in the Nebraska Legislature on Tuesday. The unofficial vote total saw Halstrom receie 51.8% of the votes cast to 48.7% for Dennis Schaardt of Steinauer.

Schaardt received more votes than Hallstom in Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha and Johnson counties but Hallstrom's home county of Otoe saw him receive more than 2,100 more votes than Schaardt to win the close race.

In local contested races in Richardson County Tuesday,

Falls City Council:

Ward 1 Frank Killingsworth 255; Brian Poppe 239

Ward II Kenny Killingsworth 317; Brittany Campbell 159

Ward III Sara Ruiz 270; Sarah Bangert 154

Ward IV Josh Kaster 201; James Wisdom 142.

Falls City School Board: Top 3 elected.

1. Roger Windle 1750; 2. Kevin Scheitel 1437; 3. Gabe Ramsey 1184.

4. Incumbent June Bowers 1162; 5. Marc Merz 945; 6. Chris Fischer 689.

HTRS School Board: Top 3 elected.

1. Quentin Bowen 1030; 2. Mike Kanel 982; 3.Kyle Hilgenfeld ( Inc.) 973;

4. Leah Reyes 656.

Pawnee City School Board: Top 3 elected:

1. Mark Sunneberg Jr. 528; 2. Jason Vetrovsky ( Inc.) 521; 3. Hanna Brumbaugh 463;

4. J.W. Vlcek 370

Auburn School Board: Top 3 elected:

1. Eli Davidson 1521; 2. Grant Brueggemann 1465; Janny Crotty 1444; 4. James Paschal 901.

Johnson-Brock School Board: top 3 elected:

1. Incumbent, Blayne Behrends - 583; 2. Brian Meyer - 567; 3. Bryan Wakulinski - 473; 4. Phalisady Bowhay - 204.

Johnson County Central School Board: top 3 elected

1. Sarah Weber - 1177; 2. Jon Schmid -896; 3. Daniel Jones - 780; 4. Scott Straka 755.

Rulo voters approved imposing a 1 percent sales tax on the same transactions that are taxed by the state of Nebraska on a vote of 40 in favor and 31 against.

In Nemaha County, Nebraska elections Tuesday:

Johnny Curtright was elected the the Ward 3 Council seat in Auburn defeating Seth Bingham 299 - 197.

Two Village Board of Trustee members were recalled by Brownville voters.

Martin Hayes was recalled on a vote of 71 in favor to 26 against and Colleen Volkmer was recalled on a vote of 76 yes votes to 24 against.

Voters in Johnson approved a bond question in an amount of $950 thousand for a 4,000 square foot addition to the existing fire station and equipping it on a vote of 111 to 77.

Elected to Village Boards Tuesday were:

Kraig Coonce and incumbent, Rebecca Simmonds in Rulo.

Delbert Jeanneret and Amy Miller in Brock.

Kim Johnson and Paul Fish in Brownville.

Travis Knippelmeyer, Irene Seeba and Neal Hahn in Johnson.

Michael Hall, Jeannie Montanelli and George Childers in Nemaha.

All of the election results are unofficial until provisional ballots are reviewed and the Canvass Board meets.

(MSC News)--Area voters in northeast Kansas went to the polls Tuesday to decide local, state and federal races, along with several special questions.

In Hiawatha, Thomas Martin won the race for the position of Commissioner of Seat 2 on the Hiawatha City Commission. Martin defeated incumbent Commissioner Toni Hull by a more than 100 vote margin.

Incumbent Brian Shefferd was re-elected to the position of Commissioner of seat 3, defeating challenger Jen Hoschouer by a 265 vote margin.

For Brown County election results click here

In Nemaha County, 2nd District County Commissioner Jason Koch won re-election, defeating challenger Angela Deters by a more than 680 vote margin.

Nemaha County voters approved the continuation of a half-cent sales tax for health care services in the county for an additional 10 years by a 1,800 vote margin.

For Nemaha County election results click here

In Doniphan County, 2nd District County Commissioner Wayne Grable won re-election, defeating challenger Paul Smith by a 377 vote margin.

For Doniphan County election results click here

In Jackson County, Linda Gerhardt won the race for 2nd District County Commissioner over incumbent Dan Brenner by a 245 vote margin.

Jerica Holt won the race for Register of Deeds over Mary Savage by a 1,677 vote margin.

For Jackson County election results click here

In Marshall County, unofficial results Tuesday night had voters turning down the renewal of a half-cent sales tax for Community Memorial Healthcare for an additional five years by an 8-vote margin, with 2,325 votes cast against continuation of the sales tax to 2,317 in favor

In Jefferson County, voters in Jefferson County North USD 339 said yes to the proposal that $5.5 million in general obligation bonds be issued to fund a variety of facility improvements, ranging from school safety to HVAC and roof repairs, along with a Vo-Ag and tech classroom addition. Voters gave approval 368 to 359 to the proposal, which will require a 6.5 mill levy increase over a 30-year period to pay for the bonds and interest.

It was a different story for Jefferson West USD 340, as voters said no to a $21 million bond issue for facility improvements, voting 1,020 to 711, in opposition. Along with funding improvements and renovations to the elementary, middle and high schools, as well as the early childhood center, it would have been used to fund the construction of a multi-purpose facility connecting the high school and middle school.

Effingham voters, in Atchison County's Tuesday election, were deciding the fate of a proposed 1-cent sales tax to fund local projects and services.

According to the City of Effingham, approval of the sales tax would mean improved "economic vitality of the community" as well as infrastructure upkeep, including streets, sidewalks, parks, and updated sewer and water systems.

As of 10:00 Tuesday night, approval of the increase was leading the opposition 28 votes to 18.

The Atchison Co live election results are below.

(MSC News)--As allegations, accusations, and outright conspiracy theories have swirled in recent years regarding the security of U.S. election system, Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab is reminding voters of the process that follows election day, including that the counts shown election day night are not considered official.

The Secretary of State's Office website, on this election night, is posting the results of state races; and, visitors to the site, are greeted with a message which states the following: Following election day, counties may still be tabulating legally cast ballots and therefore you may see a small increase in unofficial vote totals November 6-8. The categories of ballots that may be tabulated include:

Any ballots that were hand counted.
Mail ballots that were post-marked by election day and still being processed.
Any other legally cast ballots not included in Tuesday- unofficial count.
The unofficial results on election night do not and cannot include county canvass certified results, because those results must include provisional ballots that will be reviewed by the County Board of Canvassers.

Schwab, in the website message, also explains that tomorrow, November 6, random audits will be conducted.

On November 6, 2024, the Secretary of State shall randomly select one federal, one legislative, and one county race to be audited in each county. (This selection will begin at 9:00 a.m. and will be open to the public.)

The Secretary of State will then notify each county election office of the races to be audited. The county election office will then randomly select 1% of the precincts to be audited for each race. Ballots from the selected precincts shall be hand counted to ensure the hand count is identical to the vote count from the tabulators. The audit shall be performed by a sworn election board consisting of bipartisan trained board members. Per K.A.R. 7-47-1 ballot images cannot be used when conducting an audit.

Audits must be completed before the county canvass, which must take place by November 18.

To view the races being decided across Kansas, including votes cast in local counties, go here.

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(KAIR)--A reported, early Saturday morning domestic disturbance, in Holton, ends with two arrested on drug-related charges.

A release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says his deputies, along with the Holton Police Department, were called to 619 1/2 Vermont Avenue, shortly after 4:00 that morning, after they received a report of the disturbance.

After they arrived, an investigation followed, leading the Sheriff's Office to obtain a search warrant for the residence, with the resulting search leading to the two arrests.

39-year-old William Collins, of Holton, and 33-year-old Samantha Gresham, of Morrill, were both taken into custody for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Collins additionally faces charges for possession of a hallucinogenic drug, and domestic battery.

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

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Department of Economic Development has announced 11 awards totaling $10 million through the Rural Community Recovery Program.

The City of Pawnee City will receive $535,000 for public park renovations while the community of Beatrice will receive $985,000 for public park renovations.

The Nebraska Legislature authorized the one-time program through LB 1412 in 2023. The program is funded with Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

All of the funds are being awarded to applicants with projects located in communities disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. The awards are to support the rehabilitation or adaptive reuse of vacant or abandoned property.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Commission approved the purchase of 4 in-car computers for the Sheriff's Office at a cost of $20,362 when they met last Wednesday.

$15,271 of the cost will be covered by a grant through the Nebraska Department of Highway Safety, with Richardson County responsible for the remaining $5,000.

Commissioners voted to pursue a Nebraska Association of County Officials lease-purchase plan to cover the expense of replacement of the electronic system at the Law Enforcement Center to be installed by Electronic Contracting out of Lincoln at a cost of $251,388.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported deputies will be working overtime November 23 through December 1, with funds from the Make It Click grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation providing the money to cover the cost of the overtime hours.

County Assessor Kim Riggs met with the Board, presenting a contract for services with Lake Mac Assessment of Ogallala, Nebraska. The company will provide appraisal maintenance for Richardson County and help to build and adjust appraisal models in the Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal system, for county commercial properties.

The Board approved entering into the contract, the cost for the contract is $2,500.

Falls City EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl presented the economic development groups quarterly report , elaborating on agreements that are in place to develop the Mid-America Rail Campus which is being planned for a location south of Falls City. More than a dozen interested citizens were in attendance for the report.

(MSC News)--Voters will decide several local races when they go to the polls Tuesday.

In Hiawatha, there are two contested races for the City Commission. Incumbent Toni Hull is being challenged by Thomas Martin for Commissioner of seat 2, while incumbent Brian Shefferd is being challenged by Jen Hoschouer for Commissioner of seat 3. Laura Tollefson is running unopposed for Commissioner of seat 4. The seat is currently held by Evans Woehlecke, who didn't seek re-election.

In Doniphan County, incumbent Republican 2nd District County Commissioner Wayne Grable is being challenged by Democratic candidate Paul Smith.

In Jackson County, incumbent 2nd District County Commissioner Dan Brenner, an independent, is being challenged by Republican Linda Gerhardt in his bid for re-election.

Democrat Mary Savage and Republican Jerica Holt are vying for Jackson County Register of Deeds

In Nemaha County, 2nd District Republican County Commissioner Jason Koch is being challenged by Democratic candidate Angela Deters.

(KLZA)-- Two teenage men suffered serious injuries in a wreck Sunday morning on Interstate 29 in Holt County, Missouri.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports a northbound pickup traveled off the roadway and struck a semi truck that was sitting on the east shoulder of the road.

The pickup traveled off the side of the interstate and overturned down an embankment, coming to rest on its wheels.

The 18-year-old pickup driver from Oregon, Missouri and his 19-year-old passenger, from Plattsburg, Missouri, were transported by Holt County EMS to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph.

Due to a new policy of the Missouri Highway Patrol, intended to reduce accident reports from being used in scam attempts, the name of the driver is not immediately made public.

The semi driver was not injured.

The Holt County Sheriff's Department assisted at the scene of the wreck.

(KAIR)---A 24-year-old Highland man was transported for hospital care following a single vehicle crash Monday in northwest, Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, it happened in Andrew County, Missouri. when the driver was northbound on I-229, but lost control on the wet roadway. His vehicle ran off the west side of the interstate and overturned.

The MSHP reports he incurred minor injuries, and was transported by Andrew County EMS to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, Missouri, for treatment.

According to the patrol's report, the driver was buckled up when the wreck happened around 12:30 Monday afternoon.

Due to a new policy of the MSHP, intended to reduce accident reports from being used in scam attempts, the name of the driver is not immediately made public.

(KAIR)--The Drug Endangered Children in Kansas program receives a second round of funding on top of last year's first round, which included 18 communities, with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment saying the additional funding means a total of 29 grantees across the state, receiving a total of $3 million.

Word of the award is announced in a release from KDOT, which explains the funding is part of a grant the agency received through the U.S Department of Justice, and aimed at drug endangered children, defined as those who are at risk of suffering physical, mental or emotional harm as a result of substance misuse by a parent or caregiver, or those whose caretaker's substance abuse keeps them from providing proper parenting.

One local community will benefit from the funding, with the release noting that the Jefferson County Health Department has been selected for an award of more than $94,000 through the program, commonly known as DECK, whose purpose it is "to reduce the number of children who experience environments where substances are used by increasing identification of and improving the response to these children."

According to the release, an estimated 165,847 Kansas children are living in environments where their parent or caregiver uses substances, while approximately 3,781 infants, born in Kansas, are exposed to substances each year.

(KAIR)--It was late last month that Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, joined by ten Kansas County employee veterans, signed a proclamation declaring the week leading up to Veterans Day, November 4-11, as Operation Green Light Week in Kansas.

Beginning today, according to a release, the Kansas Association of Counties, along with over 40 Kansas County government partners statewide, will light county courthouses and other county buildings, as well as KAC- Topeka office green, as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans, a nationwide effort coordinated by the National Association of Counties and the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers to show support for veterans and raise awareness around the resources available at the county, state, and federal levels to assist veterans and their families.

Now in its third year, Operation Green Light is expected to draw participation from hundreds of counties nationwide, and Atchison County is among those taking part. According to a release from the County of Atchison, that's the reason why the Atchison County Courthouse clock tower, in Atchison, is illuminated green, a move made at the end of October.

Residents, businesses, and other organizations are all encouraged to take part in Operation Green Light for Veterans by simply changing one light bulb in their home to a green bulb.

(KMZA)--Nemaha County, Kansas will not qualify for federal assistance through FEMA following damage caused by a severe storm that moved through the county October 30th.

That word came in a release Monday from Nemaha County Emergency Management Director Eddie Aldrine after a discussion with the Kansas Division of Emergency Management.

Aldrine said he was told that a Presidential Disaster Declaration will not be issued by President Biden due to the damage not being widespread enough on a regional level . To receive any sort of federal assistance, many more counties would have to had sustained widespread damage as well, and that did not happen.

Aldrine said property owners who sustained damage are advised to turn in their damage to insurance if they haven’t done so already.

The National Weather Service said a micro-burst containing straight line winds of 80 to 100 miles an hour caused the damage.

One person was injured after a semi was blown over by the high winds.

(KNZA)--An area northeast Kansas animal shelter is closed and under quarantine due to a highly-contagious virus.

The Heart of Jackson County Humane Society, in Holton, announced in a social media post last week that it would be closing for two weeks due the detection of canine parvovirus.

A dog and her eight puppies were recently brought into the shelter recently, with one of the puppies testing positive for parvo.

Parvovirus spreads easily and has already killed one puppy at the shelter.

Puppies between six weeks and six months are the most susceptible to the virus.

(KLZA)-- Citroniq Chemicals, LLC, a company based in Houston, Texas and an innovator in biochemical manufacturing, has selected a location about 2 miles south of Falls City for the world's largest decarbonized plastics production facility according to a news release.

The $5 billion investment is one of the largest in state history.

The landmark project is part of the Nebraska BioEconomy Initiative, which aims to advance Nebraska's economic strength, fortify rural communities, and create sustainable, high-paying careers.

Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise Executive Director Lucas Froeschl provided information to MSC News about the plant which will produce polypropylene pellets, which are the plastic pellets used to make everyday plastic goods such as water bottles and components for automobiles. The pellets will be made from ethanol instead of petroleum.

The use of ethanol will mean the company is not in competition with area elevators and will require large amounts of ethanol and a large investment in rail spurs at the site. 400 million gallons of ethanol will be shipped in by rail which will require 10 - 12 rail spurs to allow parking for 4,000 rail cars which will be a large part of the investment. It is projected that 80 tank cars of ethanol would be delivered to the plant each day with 50 hopper cars of polypropylene shipped out each day.

There will be no pollution and no odors with the creation of the pellets. A private wastewater treatment facility to process 300 gallons of environmentally friendly water per minute.

It is anticipated that during construction of the plant, 2,000 workers will be required. Once built, it's anticipated to become one of the areas largest employers with an expected workforce of 160 persons. The jobs created will be premium, high-wage positions requiring engineers, chemists and maintenance technicians. The plant itself will be fully automated.

Plans are for the plant to be in production by 2029 with ground to be broken within the next year and about three years to complete the project for operation.

Contacts about this particular plant were first discussed about 14 months ago. While Falls City was originally a backup site, the original location fell through and Falls City was up next. Froeschl said that about five weeks ago the company began to focus more of Falls City as the location.

Since the project has been announced many questions have come up from the public. EDGE will host a Community Engagement Session in a few weeks allowing citizens to ask questions and meet the co-owners.

Froeschl says EDGE does not expect the project to cannabalize current industries.

EDGE is excited to partner with Citroniq and establish Falls City as a leader in the Nebraska BioEconomy.

Citroniq Chemicals President Mel Badheka says Nebraska is an ideal location to create a bio-plastics manufacturing hub due to the availability of local ethanol feedstock, advantaged logistics to industrial plastics consumes and high-quality rail infrastructure to support the entire value chain.

It is projected that over the next three decades the economic impact will be in the tens of billions of dollars. The development should also increase local and state revenue, providing additional support for essential community needs such as police, fire service, streets, schools infrastructure, culture recreation and community development, benefiting Falls City, Richardson County, and all political subdivisions with taxing authority.

Kelly Knopp and Mel Badheka are the founders of Citroniq Chemicals, LLC. Citroniq has secured purchase agreements with companies in Chicago, Western Pennsylvania, and the Rust Belt region of the country.

(KNZA)--A Horton man has been been convicted of a pair of sex-related crimes involving an adult female.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said 26-year-old Cody Ptomey pleaded no contest Monday in Brown County District Court to charges of rape and aggravated sexual battery.

Following his pleas, his bond was revoked, and he was remanded to the Brown County Jail to await sentencing on January 6th.

Due to his conviction, Hill said Ptomey will be required to register as a sex offender for his lifetime and will be subject to a lengthy prison sentence and lifetime post-release supervision at sentencing.

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

(KLZA)--Tuesday is General Election Day in the United States.

In Nebraska polls are open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. and in Missouri polls are open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The most closely watched race locally is the battle for the 1st District State Legislative seat between Dennis Schaardt of Elk Creek, and Bob Halstrom from Syracuse. The seek to replace Julie Slama who chose not to run.

Most of the area contested races involve school boards.

In Falls City six people seek 3 seats. June Bowers is the only incumbent seeking reelection. Marc Merz, Roger Windle, Gabe Ramsey, Chris Fischer and Kevin Scheitel are seeking election.

Four people are running for 3 seats on the Humboldt-Table Rock - Steinauer School Board. Kyle Hilgnefeld is running for reelection. Mike Kanel, Leah Reyes and Quentin Bowen are also running.

Blayne Behrends is running for another term on the Johnson-Brock School Board. He is joined by Brian Meyer, Phalisady Bowhay and Bryan Wakulinski is seeking the three seats up for election.

Four people are running for 3 seats on the Pawnee City School Board. They include incumbent Jason Vetrovsky, Hanna Brumbaugh, J.W. Vlcek and Mark A. Sunneberg Jr.

Three seats are open on the Auburn Board of Education. Seeking those seats are James Paschal, Grant Brueggemann, Eli Davidson and Janny Crotty.

Seeking the three open seat on the Johnson County Central School Board are Jon Schmid, Scot Straka, Sarah Weber and Daniel L. Jones.

All four seats up for election on the City Council in Falls City are contested.

In Ward I, Brian O. Poppe and Frank Killingsworth seek the seat.

In Ward II Kenny Killingsworth squares off against Brittany Campbell.

In Ward III Sara Ruiz runs against Sarah Bangert and in Ward IV incumbent Jim Wisdom is challenged by Josh Kaster.

Five people are seeking two positions on the Rulo Village Board. Incumbents Hanna Barber and Rebecca Simmonds are challenged by Kraig Coonce, James H. Coonce and Melissa Coonce.

Rulo voters will cast yes or no votes on a 1 percent village sales tax.

Two Village of Brownville Trustees are facing recall efforts. Martin F. Hayes and Colleen Volkmer are facing being recalled.

The Village of Johnson voters will cast ballots for or against a proposed 4,000 square foot addition to the existing fire station and equipment at a cost of $950,000.

Auburn has one contested city council race. Johnny Curtright will face off against Seth Bingham.

The Village Board races in Nemaha County include:

Village of Brock, selecting 2 from James Reed, Delbert Jeanneret, James Hoover and Amy Miller.

Running for 2 spots on the Brownville Board of Trustees are Carol Furnas, Kim Johnson and Paul Fish.

Seeking 3 seats on the Village of Johnson Board are Irene Seeba, Travis Knippelmeyer, Neal Hahn and Brianna Haith.

George Childers, Michael Hall, Jeannie Montanelli and Randall Simon are running for 3 spots on the Nemaha Village Board.

In Tecumseh Brian Britt and Ronald Lade are seeking the Ward III Council seat.

Tecumseh voters will also vote yes or no on continuing the existing Economic Development program which appropriates a maximum of $950,000 annually for 16 years. The tax would run from December 1, 2024 through November 30, 2040.

There are not contested races in Pawnee County other than school board races.

There are no contested races for local positions in Holt or Atchison counties in Northwest Missouri. Sam Graves is seeking another term at the U.S. Congressman in District 6. He is challenged by Pam May, Andy Maidment and Mike Diel.

(KLZA)--Tuesday is General Election Day in the United States.

In Nebraska polls are open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. and in Missouri polls are open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

The most closely watched race locally is the battle for the 1st District State Legislative seat between Dennis Schaardt of Elk Creek, and Bob Halstrom from Syracuse. The seek to replace Julie Slama who chose not to run.

Most of the area contested races involve school boards.

In Falls City six people seek 3 seats. June Bowers is the only incumbent seeking reelection. Marc Merz, Roger Windle, Gabe Ramsey, Chris Fischer and Kevin Scheitel are seeking election.

Four people are running for 3 seats on the Humboldt-Table Rock - Steinauer School Board. Kyle Hilgnefeld is running for reelection. Mike Kanel, Leah Reyes and Quentin Bowen are also running.

Blayne Behrends is running for another term on the Johnson-Brock School Board. He is joined by Brian Meyer, Phalisady Bowhay and Bryan Wakulinski is seeking the three seats up for election.

Four people are running for 3 seats on the Pawnee City School Board. They include incumbent Jason Vetrovsky, Hanna Brumbaugh, J.W. Vlcek and Mark A. Sunneberg Jr.

Three seats are open on the Auburn Board of Education. Seeking those seats are James Paschal, Grant Brueggemann, Eli Davidson and Janny Crotty.

Seeking the three open seat on the Johnson County Central School Board are Jon Schmid, Scot Straka, Sarah Weber and Daniel L. Jones.

All four seats up for election on the City Council in Falls City are contested.

In Ward I, Brian O. Poppe and Frank Killingsworth seek the seat.

In Ward II Kenny Killingsworth squares off against Brittany Campbell.

In Ward III Sara Ruiz runs against Sarah Bangert and in Ward IV incumbent Jim Wisdom is challenged by Josh Kaster.

Five people are seeking two positions on the Rulo Village Board. Incumbents Hanna Barber and Rebecca Simmonds are challenged by Kraig Coonce, James H. Coonce and Melissa Coonce.

Rulo voters will cast yes or no votes on a 1 percent village sales tax.

Two Village of Brownville Trustees are facing recall efforts. Martin F. Hayes and Colleen Volkmer are facing being recalled.

The Village of Johnson voters will cast ballots for or against a proposed 4,000 square foot addition to the existing fire station and equipment at a cost of $950,000.

Auburn has one contested city council race. Johnny Curtright will face off against Seth Bingham.

The Village Board races in Nemaha County include:

Village of Brock, selecting 2 from James Reed, Delbert Jeanneret, James Hoover and Amy Miller.

Running for 2 spots on the Brownville Board of Trustees are Carol Furnas, Kim Johnson and Paul Fish.

Seeking 3 seats on the Village of Johnson Board are Irene Seeba, Travis Knippelmeyer, Neal Hahn and Brianna Haith.

George Childers, Michael Hall, Jeannie Montanelli and Randall Simon are running for 3 spots on the Nemaha Village Board.

In Tecumseh Brian Britt and Ronald Lade are seeking the Ward III Council seat.

Tecumseh voters will also vote yes or no on continuing the existing Economic Development program which appropriates a maximum of $950,000 annually for 16 years. The tax would run from December 1, 2024 through November 30, 2040.

There are not contested races in Pawnee County other than school board races.

There are no contested races for local positions in Holt or Atchison counties in Northwest Missouri. Sam Graves is seeking another term at the U.S. Congressman in District 6. He is challenged by Pam May, Andy Maidment and Mike Diel.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman is facing charges, following what's alleged to have been an attack with a drink on an Atchison Police Officer last week.

That's according to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, which says 41-year-old Michema Laurent was arrested Thursday for battery on a law enforcement officer, interference with law enforcement, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

According to Wilson, Laurent's arrest came after officers, around 12:45 Thursday afternoon, were called to a report of a disturbance in the 100 block of South 8th, where they located Laurent, accused of being involved in the disturbance.

When she was confronted by officers, it's alleged she threw a cup of liquid in an officer's face, leading to an altercation where it's alleged Laurent kicked an officer in the face and chest while resisting arrest.

Once officers managed to take her into custody, Laurent was found in the alleged possession of the marijuana and paraphernalia.

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

(MSC News)--Voters in two Jefferson County school districts will decide bond issues Tuesday, while voters in Nemaha and Marshall Counties will decide hospital sales tax issues.

Voters in Jefferson County North USD 339 will decide if $5.5 million in general obligation bonds should be issued to fund a variety of facility improvements, ranging from school safety to HVAC and roof repairs, along with a Vo-Ag and tech classroom addition. The proposal would require a 6.5 mill levy increase over a 30-year period to pay for the bonds and interest.

Voters in Jefferson West USD 340 will decide the fate of a $21 million bond issue for facility improvements. The bond issue would fund improvements and renovations to the elementary, middle and high schools, as well as the early childhood center. In addition, it would fund the construction of a multi-purpose facility connecting the high school and middle school. The bond issue would be paid off over a 25-year period and require a tax levy of 17.5 mills.

In Nemaha County, voters will decide if a half-cent retailers sales tax earmarked for health care services in the county should continue for an additional 10 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.

In Marshall County, voters will whether a half-cent sales tax for Community Memorial Healthcare, in Marysville, should continue for an additional 5 years.

Polls will be open Tuesday from 7:00 in the morning until 7:00 in the evening.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing Wednesday morning, November 6 on the proposed adoption of a comprehensive plan for the county.

The hearing will take place at 8:30 in the county commissioners room at the Brown County Courthouse.

If adopted by the Planning Commission, the plan would be submitted to the Brown County Commission for final approval.

The Plan was developed by consultant Dick Horton, based on public input.

It's a long-range guide for land use development and redevelopment patterns, infrastructure, transportation and mobility, housing diversity and land use.

A copy of the plan is available for review in the Brown County Clerk's Office during regular business hours or on the county's website.

(KAIR)--Doniphan County voters, on Saturday, November 2, will have an extra opportunity to cast their vote in advance of Tuesday's general election.

According to Doniphan County Clerk Peggy Franken, the County Clerk's office, in the courthouse, at Troy, will be open Saturday, from 8 until 12 noon, for in person advance voting.

Franken, in a release, sends the reminder that all voters must bring a driver's license or photo ID.

The Atchison County Clerk's Office will also be open Saturday to allow county voters to cast their in person advance voting ballots.

The office, located at the Atchison County Courthouse, in Atchison, will be open from 10 until 2:00 tomorrow afternoon.

Advance voting in person ends at 12 noon Monday, with the general election to be held the following day, with polls to be open from 7 to 7.

TOPEKA - The State of Kansas ends October with total tax collections at $668.2 million. That is $23.4 million, or 3.4%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 2.5% from October 2023.

Individual income tax collections were $311.5 million. That is $1.5 million, or 0.5% above the estimate, and up 4.3% from October 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $38.1 million. That is $21.9 million, or 36.5% below the estimate, and down 33.7% from October 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $294.6 million, which is $3.4 million, or 1.1% below the estimate, and down $11.4 million, or 3.7%, from October 2023.

The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group, comprised of the Department of Revenue, Division of Budget, Legislative Research Department, and economists from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University will meet on Nov. 15.

Click here to view the October 2024 revenue numbers.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has lifted the temporary statewide open fire ban at state park and wildlife management areas.

The decision follows recent rain across portions of the state, where additional precipitation is anticipated this weekend.

Some Nebraska parks and counties that have not received recent precipitation still may have local, individual burn bans in place. Guests should call the park they are visiting prior to arrival to confirm the local ban status. Find contact information for each park at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

State Park visitors may responsibly enjoy campfires in designated areas. They are reminded to exercise caution, as fire weather conditions can change rapidly, and nearly 90% of the state is still experiencing moderate to severe drought conditions, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is facing charges in connection with a burglary on the campus of Atchison's Benedictine College.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 22-year-old Matthew Hockel was arrested Wednesday afternoon, on the college campus, and taken into custody for burglary and theft.

Hockel's arrest follows an investigation Wednesday, by police and college security, focused on the theft of wine bottles from Ferrell Hall.

Wilson says investigators determined the theft occurred around 2:00 Sunday morning, with the investigation, still ongoing, leading to the arrest of Hockel.

Once he was in custody Wednesday afternoon, Hockel was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KAIR)--Doniphan County voters, on Saturday, will have an extra opportunity to cast their vote in advance of Tuesday's general election.

According to Doniphan County Clerk Peggy Franken, the County Clerk's office, in the courthouse, at Troy, will be open Saturday, from 8 until 12 noon, for in person advance voting.

Franken, in a release, sends the reminder that all voters must bring a driver's license or photo ID.

The Atchison County Clerk's Office will also be open Saturday to allow county voters to cast their in person advance voting ballots. The office, located at the Atchison County Courthouse, in Atchison, will be open from 10 until 2:00 tomorrow afternoon.

Advance voting in person ends at 12 noon Monday, with the general election to be held the following day, with polls to be open from 7 to 7.

(KNZA)--The 2024 Hiawatha Halloween Queen was crowned Thursday evening, prior to the grand parade, which concluded the 110th annual Halloween Frolic.

Selected for the honor was Morgan Allen, a senior at Centralia High School. As the winner, Allen will receive a $1,000 scholarship.

The 1st runner-up and winner of a $500 scholarship was Aubrey Schmelzle, a senior at Sabetha High School.

Named as Miss Congeniality and the winner of a $250 scholarship was Rilee Brown, a senior at Horton High School.

16 area girls competed in this year's scholarship contest.

The girls were judged on an essay, talent and interview, along with leadership skills, community involvement and scholastic achievements.

( KNZA)--A Hiawatha man facing multiple sex and drug charges has entered into a plea agreement.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said Jeremy Stover pleaded no contest Tuesday in Brown County District Court to three counts of sexual battery and three modified counts of buying sexual relations, which was previously known as prostitution.

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

Sentencing was set for December 16.

Hill said the convictions on the sexual battery charges will require Stover to register as a sex offender for 15 years. At sentencing, he said the state will be free to ask for him to serve 12 months on each count. Hill said the victims' expressed their approval with the plea agreement, especially with the requirement that he will have to register as a sex offender for 15 years.

Stover was charged in February 2023 following an investigation by the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

(KMZA)--The National Weather Service says a microburst that produced straight line winds of 80 to 100 miles an hours caused damage in parts of Marshall and Nemaha Counties Wednesday.

A survey team from the Weather Service on Thursday examined the damage from the storms from near Vermillion to near Sabetha.

Nemaha County Emergency Management Director Eddie Aldrine said the Weather Service believes what some residents thought were tornadoes were, in fact, gustnadoes, a brief, shallow surface-based vortex which forms within the downburst emanating from a thunderstorm.

In Marshall County, one man was injured in the Vermillion area when his house slid off its foundation. Also multiple outbuildings were damaged, trees and power lines downed.

In Nemaha County, multiple outbuildings were heavily damaged or demolished.

No injuries were reported in Nemaha County.