(KLZA)-- Unemployment figures in Southeast Nebraska counties were all lower in December, 2024 than the previous month.

Pawnee County has the best unemployment rate in the area at 2.3% which dipped 4-tenths of a point from November.

In Richardson County unemployment declined one half of a percent in December to 2.5%.

Johnson County had a jobless rate of 3.3%; Nemaha County Nebraska's unemployment figure in December was 2.9% and in Gage County the unemployment rate was 2.7%. Otoe County's unemployment rate for the month was 2.4%.

Statewide in December the unemployment rate was 2.8% which ranks 5th in the nation. South Dakota has the lowest unemployment rate in the country at 1.9%.

Iowa ranked 12th at 3.2%; Kansas was 22nd at 3.6% and Missouri was tied for 25th with a jobless rate in December of 3.7%.

Nationally in December the unemployment rate was 4.1%.

(KLZA)-- A potential threat was reported to the Rock Port, Missouri High School Office on Thursday.

The school administration and Atchison County, Missouri Sheriff's Department began an immediate investigation into the potential threat.

A release from the school administration to school families on Thursday said the investigation is ongoing, it was confirmed that there was no legitimate safety concern at the time.

Administrators assured students, staff, and families that safety of the school community is their top priority.

(KAIR)-- Flooding has forced the closure of the Atchison County Lake.

That word was delivered Friday morning by the Atchison County Road and Bridge Department, with the statement saying the lake is closed from the east entrance to the west entrance, and will remain closed until further notice due to the flooding.

Following announcement of the closure, Atchison County's Code Red emergency message system was used to alert residents that the threat of flooding also remained elsewhere in the County, with recent rainfall and snowmelt being blamed.

The message informed residents to be alert for flooded areas and to obey road closed signs.

Those who encounter flooding, or who have questions or concerns, are told to call 913-804-6120.

Meanwhile, a flood warning has been issued for Stranger Creek at Easton, affecting the counties of Atchison and Leavenworth.

According to the National Weather Service, minor flooding of Stranger Creek is expected until early Sunday morning.

The reminder is sent to motorists to remember to turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads, as most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

(KNZA)--New water meters will be installed in the city of Hiawatha.

The City Commission Monday evening accepted a bid proposal for a Neptune water metering system provided by Municipal Supply at a cost of $670,680, contingent on bond financing. It was among seven bids received.

The Commission took the action on the recommendation of Water Supervisor Ryan Smith and Public Works Director Dominic Grier.

During this past year, Grier said the electronic component of the current meters have diminished greatly and the reading rate is currently only reaching 46 percent of customers. The city is having to eye read over 800 meters, which is taking a six-man city crew about 2-3 weeks to complete.

Grier said the new water meter system will help out residents by detecting leaks at their house more rapidly than the current system. In addition, he said the new meter reading infrastructure will help the city's water loss rate, which is currently at 22 percent, and help the city bring in more revenue.

(MSC News)--Saying she is "devastated" by Wednesday night's Washington D.C. crash of a plane that originated in Wichita, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has directed that all flags throughout Kansas be flown at half-staff immediately until sundown on Thursday, February 6, in honor of those who lost their lives aboard the flight.

Kelly, who calls the tragedy "a sad day for our state and for our nation," is joined in her condolences by the Kansas Congressional delegation of Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall and Representatives Tracey Mann, Derek Schmidt, Sharice Davids, and Ron Estes.

The group of six issued a joint statement regarding the crash, saying their prayers are with the family and friends of those affected, adding that the Wichita community "will feel the pain of this catastrophe for years to come.”

They join Kelly in voicing gratitude for the first responders and rescue crews who worked through Wednesday night at the scene of the fatal crash.

The Kansas Delegation says their current focus "is supporting the family and friends of those who perished, including the crew and military personnel, and then getting answers for the grieving individuals who have lost a loved one and making sure this doesn't happen again."

(KAIR)--Two men were in custody Thursday evening in connection with a case of two stolen trucks, including one of the box variety, that led to a pursuit that began when the pickup in the pair was stolen from the parking lot of an Atchison business that morning.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson tells MSC News 40-year-old Jason Smith, of Olathe, Kansas, is facing charges for the theft of the stolen pickup.

Arrested by Atchison County Sheriff's Deputies, Smith was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

42-year-old James Shoot, of Belton, Missouri, is facing charges of felony fleeing and eluding and possession of stolen property.

Arrested by the Kansas Highway Patrol, Shoot was booked into Nemaha County Jail.

The arrests followed the box truck, stolen from Kansas City, Missouri, being pursued through Atchison until it was stopped in Nemaha County, Kansas.

Wilson tells MSC News Atchison Police Officers, around 8:45 Thursday morning, were called to the parking lot of the Atchison Walmart, located at 1920 U.S. Highway 73, following the reported theft of the 2005 Ford pickup. Within minutes, it was determined that a white box truck was involved in the theft, with both stolen trucks spotted about 15 minutes later, just before 9:00, on U.S. Highway 73, south of Atchison.

Although both vehicles were headed south, the drivers changed course, instead heading northbound, with an Atchison County Sheriff's Deputy in pursuit of the pickup while Atchison Police pursued the box truck as it entered Atchison's south end.

The pursuit of the box truck continued into Jackson County where the Kansas Highway Patrol took over until it came to its Nemaha County ending.

(KNZA)--A hearing was held during Monday's Hiawatha City Commission meeting on plans to seek a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant for a housing rehabilitation program in the city.

No public comments were received during the hearing.

Garrett Nordstrom, with Governmental Assistance Services, said the grant would allow for the rehab of ten homes and requires a 25 percent local match.

Nordstrom said he plans to submit the grant application to the Kansas Department of Commerce in March.

In other business, the Commission on a 3-2 vote approved a resolution for the creation of a reinvestment housing incentive district.

The district would include 34 acres of city-owned land, west of Bruning Park.

Developer Michael Webb, who is proposing a duplex development on a portion of the property, appeared at the meeting via Zoom. He said creation of the housing incentive district would provide funding for infrastructure improvements.

Commissioners Brian Shefferd and Tom Martin cast the dissenting votes. Shefferd said he was not willing to let the entire 34 acres go.

(KAIR)--A failed flu pipe from a wood stove that was in use is named as the cause of a Tuesday evening Atchison fire that left the Branchton-area home unlivable.

Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, in a release Wednesday evening, said investigators, earlier in the afternoon, concluded their probe, which lead to the flu pipe connection.

According to Weishaar, the fire at the 904 Henry Street home began in the attic where the flu pipe passed through, with the fire going undetected by the home's occupants due to the smoke and fire venting upward, with the fire eventually burning a hole in the exterior wall next to the chimney. The fire then spread throughout the attic unnoticed until a passerby saw flames coming from the home and called 911.

The extent of damage is still be assessed.

Weishaar says the fire department, in conjunction with the Atchison Salvation Army, is working to find resources needed by the displaced residents.

No injuries are reported.

The fire began Tuesday evening shortly before 7:00.

(KMZA)--A 5th grader at Centralia Schools won the 2025 Nemaha County Spelling Bee held January 25th at Centralia Schools.

Draidyn Mueting will advance to the Sunflower State Spelling Bee to be held on March 22nd at Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina.

Taking second place was Nemaha Central Elementary and Middle School 8th grader Jayla Nolte.

Piper Koch, a fifth grader at Centralia Schools, took 3rd place.

Students from the four Nemaha County schools participated in the event—including Centralia, Sabetha, Sts. Peter and Paul, and Nemaha Central Elementary and Middle School.

(KMZA)--A late Wednesday morning two-vehicle Marshall County wreck sent a Sabetha man to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-99 highway, a quarter mile south of Pheasant Road, around 11:00.

According to the KHP report, 70-year-old Rodney Strahm was northbound when his SUV went left of center, striking the rear dual tires of a semi truck.

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

The semi driver, from Iowa, was not hurt.

(KAIR)--A Tuesday afternoon crash between a pickup and grain truck sent two to the hospital.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, it happened in the 600 block of Kansas Avenue when the pickup, driven eastbound by 62-year-old Atchison resident Floyd Kuhnert, collided with the grain truck that was exiting a parking lot on the south side of Kansas Avenue.

Kuhnert and his 56-year-old passenger were both transported by Atchison County EMS for examination at Amberwell.

The driver of the grain truck, 67-year-old Michael Lednicky, of Everest, was not hurt.

The crash happened around 2:20 Tuesday afternoon.

(KAIR)--A Tuesday afternoon crash between a pickup and grain truck sent two to the hospital.

According to a report from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, it happened in the 600 block of Kansas Avenue when the pickup, driven eastbound by 62-year-old Atchison resident Floyd Kuhnert, collided with the grain truck that was exiting a parking lot on the south side of Kansas Avenue.

Kuhnert and his 56-year-old passenger were both transported by Atchison County EMS for examination at Amberwell.

The driver of the grain truck, 67-year-old Michael Lednicky, of Everest, was not hurt.

The crash happened around 2:20 Tuesday afternoon.

(KLZA)-- A slide repair project on the northbound lanes of Interstate 29 in Holt County between Route W and County Road 110 is scheduled to begin Monday, Feb. 3.

C.P. Excavating, LLC working with the Missouri Department of Transportation will begin the repair work on the slide area. Once it is complete, crews will close the driving (right) lane and make repairs to the shoulder.

The work will consist of rock fill at the slide location, edge drain installation, and erosion control measures. The contractor plans to have all repairs completed and the driving lane reopened to traffic by May 2025.

A 15-foot width restriction will be in place. All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

(KAIR)--A semi truck, traveling on Atchison's South 5th Street Monday evening when its tall load tangled with an overhead powerline, broke off a utility pole.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says it was 6:30 Monday evening when the accident happened in the 400 block of South 5th Street, as the driver, Lee Vallies, of Georgia, was southbound on the street.

Crews from Evergy were called to the scene and replaced the pole and power lines.

No injuries are reported.

(KAIR)--A disturbance that led to a stabbing in the parking lot of an Atchison convenience store Monday is under the investigation of Atchison Police.

Police Chief Mike Wilson tells MSC News the aggravated battery occurred early-evening, at 6:50, in the 900 block of Unity Street.

According to Wilson, two men were involved in the disturbance, with one, identified as 34-years-old, sustaining several stab wounds that required his transport, by private vehicle, for treatment at Amberwell Atchison.

The other man, accused of the stabbing, ran from the area, remaining free as of Tuesday.

The investigation is continuing.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission voted Monday to reject the bids received for the remodeling and construction of an addition to the Noxious Weed and Solid Waste building at the county landfill.

Three bids were opened at last week's Commission meeting.

After reviewing the bids, Landfill Director Don Pounds told commissioners that he and Noxious Weed Director Richard Rodvelt would instead like to construct a new 30 by 40 foot building to the south of the existing building that would house offices and drop plans to remodel the existing building.

Pounds says he believes it would save the county money. He said the existing building would be utilized as a workshop.

The Commission voted to have Pounds prepare new bid specifications for the revamped project.

(KNZA)--A Topeka woman was arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County late Saturday night.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a car on U.S. 75 Highway, near 118th Road, shortly before midnight.

During the traffic stop, a police service dog was deployed to conduct a free-air sniff of the vehicle.

Morse said the dog alerted and indicated to the odor of illegal narcotics in the vehicle.

During a search of the vehicle, suspected methamphetamine, THC, & drug paraphernalia were located.

The driver, 32-year-old Kaley Rae Lindberg, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia and violations of driver- license restrictions.

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

(KAIR)--An Atchison residence, in the city's Branchton area, is left uninhabitable following a Tuesday evening fire that devastated the roof of the home.

That's according to Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, who says his crew was called, shortly before 7:00, to 904 Henry Street, with flames visible on the skyline as they approached on U.S. Highway 59.

Flames, when they arrived, were found coming from the gable end of the home, near a brick chimney, with an interior attack made to extinguish the blaze which had spread throughout the home's attic. However, Weishaar says the construction of the home made the effort difficult, forcing firefighters to retreat and continue extinguishing efforts from outside the home.

As they did, a powerline, attached to the chimney, fell across the roof and yard, with the arcing keeping firefighters "back from the area where the fire had extended through the wall."

Evergy arrived and removed the line, allowing firefighters to successfully continue their work in suppressing the fire.

The Atchison Salvation Army, which responded to the scene to provide refreshments for first responders, is assisting the displaced residents with lodging and other necessities.

Also assisting with the effort was the Atchison Police Department, Atchison County EMS, and City of Atchison crews.

No injuries are reported.

(KNZA)--The Horton community is mourning the unexpected death of one its police officers.

Officer Loren Lossman died Monday at the age of 54 at a Topeka hospital.

Last call will take place at 12 noon Thursday in the parking lot of the Horton Blue building.

Services will be held at 2:00 Saturday afternoon at the Sweeney-Phillips and Holdren Funeral Home, in Warrensburg, Missouri. Burial will follow at the Sunset Hill Cemetery, in Warrensburg.

Horton Mayor Bryan Stirton has requested that all flags remain at half-staff through the day Saturday out of respect for officer Lossman and his family. `

Prior to joining the Horton Police Department, Lossman served as Chief of Police of the Iowa Tribal Police Department and before that as Chief of Police of the Kickapoo Tribal Police Department.

(KLZA)-- Mound City has been selected for a visitation by Missouri Main Street Connection.

The organization will spend two days in the Holt County community bringing in consultants to share resources and expertise things such as utilization of buildings, promotion and economic vitality.

The organization will be working with the Mound City Downtown Restoration and Revitalization organization.

The consultant group will be in Mound City February 10 and 11 and will tour the downtown area, meet with the Downtown Restoration group as well as some property owners and city officials as well as civic groups and residents on Monday the 10th.

ON Tuesday evening from 6 - 8 p.m. the consultants will make a presentation to the public at a location to be determined.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson County Central Board of Education approved the hiring of Justin Damme as the new principal when they met January 8.

Damme will succeed Rick Lester who will be retiring at the end of the current school year.

In other business during the meeting Jon Schmid, Sarah Weber and Dan Jones were given the oath of office to join the JCC Board of Education. Kim Wellensiek was re-elected President of the Board with Justin Beethe elected to serve another year as Vice- President of the Board.

A negotiated agreement with the Districts teachers was approved for the 2025-26 school ear with th base pay increased by $1,100 to $41,600.

(KNZA)--A Mayetta man is jailed in Jackson County following a domestic incident last week.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said the Sheriff's Office received a report around 8:00 Friday morning of a rolling domestic headed northbound on S. Road near 142nd Road in a Chevy Impala.

Deputies located the vehicle headed westbound on 150th Road, west of Q.4 Road.

The passenger of the vehicle, 41-year-old Feliciano Anguiano III, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery and criminal damage to property.

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

(KAIR)-The Holton Community Hospital is among a total of 34 recipients statewide selected to receive a portion of more than $6 million in awarded grants allocated by the Kansas Fights Addiction Grant Review Board.

According to a release from the office of Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach, the awards come as part of the fourth round of funding in support of substance use disorder services in Kansas by the board, which was, in 2021, formed in conjunction with the state legislature's enactment of the Kansas Fights Addiction Act.

The Holton Community Hospital will recieve $182,588.

The Sunflower Foundation, a statewide health philanthropy based in Topeka, serves as the administrator for the grant program.

Kobach, in the release, says the organizations that received grants through the latest round of funding "prioritized strategies related to prevention, providers and health systems, and public safety and first responders," priorities established by the Kansas Prescription Drug and Opioid Advisory Committee in its 2023-2027 state strategic plan.

Funding comes from money recovered by the Attorney General's Office through opioid legal settlements.

The St. Joseph, Missouri man, accused of shooting at law enforcement during a near 9-hour standoff that began Friday evening, has died.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Monday afternoon, confirmed the death of 36-year-old Bryson McCray, who died after being hospitalized, in critical condition, after being shot by a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper, with the shooting bringing the standoff to an end.

KBI Monday: Bryson McCray, 36, of St. Joseph, Missouri, the subject in the recent officer-involved shooting in Atchison, died from his injuries in a local hospital early this morning. An autopsy is scheduled.

This investigation is ongoing.

The standoff began around 5:45 Friday evening, at 508 North 9th Street, with Atchison Police called to that location following the report of a man, armed with a gun, breaking into an apartment at that location. Once inside, it's alleged McCray took a woman he knew hostage, firing multiple shots upon responding law enforcement throughout the incident.

The standoff ended around 2:30 Saturday morning when McCray was shot and the woman rescued.

Numerous agencies assisted at the scene, including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and others.

The KBI is continuing to investigate.

No additional injuries are reported.

(KAIR)--As the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce finalizes plans for the approaching, Business Celebration Dinner, a keynote speaker for the annual event has been secured.

According to Chamber Executive Director Jill Thorne, Jermaine Jamison will fill the position, saying, in a release, that he is "a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and expert in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging," who will deliver the keynote address at the dinner, taking place on February 8th at The Atchison Event Center.

Thorne, in the release, says Jamison's "passion for inspiring growth and transformation aligns perfectly with the mission of the Chamber,” adding that he brings a wealth of experience as the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Jamison Perry, a premier recruiting and staffing firm, and as President of 3E, LLC, a human engagement consulting company. Jamison additionally serves as Chairman of the Board for the Lenexa Chamber of Commerce and an advocate for initiatives that strengthen families and communities.

In his keynote, Jamison will share actionable insights and strategies that the release says will “empower individuals and organizations to thrive. Drawing from his extensive expertise in leadership development, organizational training, and career coaching, attendees will leave with the clarity, confidence, and tools needed to achieve personal and professional growth.”

Tickets for the Business Celebration Dinner are available for purchase on the Visit Atchison website.

(KAIR)--A 21-year-old Leavenworth man has been convicted of using a jail phone system to make more than 30 calls to a woman who was set to testify against him.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Christian Harris, last week in Leavenworth County District Court, entered a no-contest plea to a charge of Attempted Aggravated Intimidation of a Witness/Victim. The judge accepted the plea, resulting in a guilty verdict.

A sentencing hearing for Harris is scheduled for the afternoon of February 7 in a Leavenworth County District courtroom.

According to the release, Harris, on Ocober 8 of last year, was served with a protection order while in jail, prohibiting him from contacting, stalking, harassing, threatening, abusing, or interfering with the protected party. According to court documents cited in the release, Harris violated this order 31 times by using the jail's phone system, HomeWAVE, through accounts belonging to other inmates. This included an account registered to Kaden Bentley, who was convicted earlier this month for using Snapchat to post a threat targeting a Leavenworth school. Of the 31 calls Harris made, he successfully contacted the victim on seven occasions.

Harris, the release notes, has multiple Leavenworth County convictions, including Felony Criminal Possession of a Firearm and Felony Interference with Law Enforcement.

(KAIR)--An early Saturday evening crash, involving a car and a motorcycle, sent one to the hospital.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says it happened around 5:15, in the 400 block of North 10th Street, while both vehicles were southbound on 10th Street.

The operator of the motorcycle, Atchison resident Jody Erickson, was transported to Amberwell Atchison by Atchison County EMS for the examination of injuries. Erickson was later released.

The driver of the car, Eric Hill, of Nortonville, was not hurt.

(KLZA)-- Peru State College's Feeding 44 Mobile Outreach Program, typically held on the first Friday of each month, will be rescheduled for February.

Instead of the original date of Friday, February 7, the program will take place on Friday, February 14.

The one-time change is due to the College hosting a large group on campus during the first week of February.

Feeding 44 will resume its regular schedule on Friday, March 7.

For more information, please contact Brock Zautke, Director of Student Activities & Programs, at 402-872-2329.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved seasonal employee job descriptions and pay scales for various seasonal positions and staff to be hired to keep Prichard Auditorium open extended hours when they met last week.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum noted that while seasonal staff don't have to be paid minimum wage, it will be hard to fill job openings with lower wages.

he affected positions will include lifeguards, support staff and the Assistant Manager at the Aquatic Center and building attendants working at Prichard Auditorium.

Wages could range from $13.50 an hour for a first year building attendant up to $22 per hour for the highest step for the Assistant Manager at the Aquatic Center in 2026.

During his Administrators report, Nussbaum said that he and members of the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department had toured the recently built fire hall at Pawnee City to get an idea of how Falls City might go about constructing a new facility for the Fire Department and Ambulance Squad in the future.

The Council also approved the appointment of Kristen Poppe to the Housing Board for the economic development seat as recommended by Falls City EDGE and Mayor Mark Harkendorff.

(KLZA)-- Following a closed session to discuss personnel during their January 22nd meeting, the Mound City Board of Education voted unanimously to extend the contract of Superintendent Korey Miles by a year through the 2027-28 school Year.

The Board also approved Prent Eaton as High School Assistant Track Coach or the 2025 season.

Superintendent Miles provided an update on the school districts Comprehensive School Improvement Plan noting that he is very happy with how the plan has helped guide instruction and change within the Mound City School District.

The CSIP is a 3-year plan that ends in 2025 and the district will be putting together a new plan for the upcoming school year.

The Board did approve the 2025-26 school year calendar as voted on by the Mound City School Staff. The first day of school will be August 20 with the last day of classes on May 20. Graduation will be May 10, 20026.

High School Principal Jake Shipman reported on a “Be Alert” presentation that occurred January 12th and 13th. Russ Tuttle spoke with approximately 31 parents and community members about the dangers of trafficking and issues that students are dealing with on social media.

On the13th Tuttle talked to approximately 160, 6th - 8th grade students and 250, 9th - 12th grade students from the Craig, Fairfax, South Holt and Mound City Schools regarding the same topics. Mr. Shipman described it as a very successful and important event.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved seasonal employee job descriptions and pay scales for various seasonal positions and staff to be hired to keep Prichard Auditorium open extended hours when they met last week.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum noted that while seasonal staff don't have to be paid minimum wage, it will be hard to fill job openings with lower wages.

he affected positions will include lifeguards, support staff and the Assistant Manager at the Aquatic Center and building attendants working at Prichard Auditorium.

Wages could range from $13.50 an hour for a first year building attendant up to $22 per hour for the highest step for the Assistant Manager at the Aquatic Center in 2026.

During his Administrators report, Nussbaum said that he and members of the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department had toured the recently built fire hall at Pawnee City to get an idea of how Falls City might go about constructing a new facility for the Fire Department and Ambulance Squad in the future.

The Council also approved the appointment of Kristen Poppe to the Housing Board for the economic development seat as recommended by Falls City EDGE and Mayor Mark Harkendorff.

The Falls City Council approved seasonal employee job descriptions and pay scales for various seasonal positions and staff to be hired to keep Prichard Auditorium open extended hours when they met last week.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum noted that while seasonal staff don't have to be paid minimum wage, it will be hard to fill job openings with lower wages.

he affected positions will include lifeguards, support staff and the Assistant Manager at the Aquatic Center and building attendants working at Prichard Auditorium.

Wages could range from $13.50 an hour for a first year building attendant up to $22 per hour for the highest step for the Assistant Manager at the Aquatic Center in 2026.

During his Administrators report, Nussbaum said that he and members of the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department had toured the recently built fire hall at Pawnee City to get an idea of how Falls City might go about constructing a new facility for the Fire Department and Ambulance Squad in the future.

The Council also approved the appointment of Kristen Poppe to the Housing Board for the economic development seat as recommended by Falls City EDGE and Mayor Mark Harkendorff.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County STEP Foundation celebrated its 32nd anniversary when they held their annual meeting January 22nd at the Knight's of Columbus Hall in Seneca.

Highlights of the past year were reviewed and new board members elected.

More than $56,000 in grant awards were made last year to benefit projects in Nemaha County.

Two new funds were opened with the Nemaha County STEP Foundation in 2024. The new funds include the Nemaha County Free Fair Board Fund and the Hecht Family Fund, which are now eligible for Match Day donations.

STEP Executive Director Tory Jost reported the organization's fourth annual Match Day set a new record, receiving more than 416 gifts totaling over $244,000.

In other business, Rick Smith, Stacie Korte and Tim Rottinghaus were elected to the STEP Foundation Board. Board President Dan Heiman thanked John Lehman for his service on the STEP Board of Directors.

At year end, Treasurer Tim Rottinghaus reported STEP Foundation- total assets were almost $2.8 million, an increase of $366,000 over 2023. He said that is attributed to record giving by the community and strong earnings.

A delicious meal served before the meeting was catered by Home Cookin’ of Seneca. The meal was sponsored by Koch and Company.

After the annual meeting, the board held a special re-organizational meeting to elect officers. All positions will remain the same. Dan Heiman will continue as president, Maggie Grier as vice-president, Leon Haverkamp as secretary, and Tim Rottinghaus as treasurer.

(KAIR)--The Atchison Fire Department, early Saturday morning while assisting at the scene of an armed Atchison standoff, were called to a structure fire on the City's south side, where a garage, behind the residence at 717 Y Street, was found engulfed in flames, as well as a nearby pickup truck.

According to Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, firefighters, after arriving shortly after 1:00, "were able to extinguish both fires preventing any major damage to the single-family home and a nearby neighboring garage."

Firefighters remained on the scene for a short time after the fire was extinguished "to investigate and ensure the fire was out." That investigation into the cause of the fire was continuing Saturday.

No injuries are reported.

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for the City of White Cloud public water supply system located in Doniphan County.

The advisory was issued January 21st 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.

The KDHE said in a release Saturday that water samples collected from the City of White Cloud indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by to be resolved.

(KAIR)--The St. Joseph, Missouri man, accused of shooting at law enforcement during a near 9-hour standoff that began Friday evening at an Atchison apartment, has died.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Monday afternoon, confirmed the death of 36-year-old Bryson McCray, who died after being hospitalized, in critical condition, after being shot by a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper, with the shooting bringing the standoff to an end.

The standoff began around 5:45 Friday evening, at 508 North 9th Street, with Atchison Police called to that location following the report of a man, armed with a gun, breaking into an apartment at that location. Once inside, it's alleged McCray took a woman he knew hostage, firing multiple shots upon responding law enforcement throughout the incident.

The standoff ended around 2:30 Saturday morning when McCray was shot and the woman rescued.

Numerous agencies assisted at the scene, including the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and others.

The KBI is continuing to investigate.

----

(KAIR)--A near 9-hour armed standoff that began at an Atchison apartment Friday evening, including one person held hostage, came to an end early Saturday morning after the suspect was shot and hospitalized.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the 36-year-old man, identified by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation as Bryson McCray, of St. Joseph, Missouri, had allegedly fired shots at an Atchison Police officer who was the first to arrive at 508 North 9th Street, around 5:45 Friday evening, following a report of a person with a gun.

With the officer's vehicle struck multiple times, additional officers arrived, securing the perimeter and learning that a person, known to the armed suspect, was being held hostage inside the apartment the suspect fled to after the shots were fired.

Wilson says Special Response Teams from Atchison Police, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the KBI, responded to the scene, with efforts continuing throughout the night to communicate with the man and to free his hostage. Additionally, the KBI, in a release, says their High Risk Warrant Team was utilized as "law enforcement attempted to peacefully negotiate throughout the night with McCray insisting he release the woman inside the residence. The subject did not cooperate with the negotiations and fired multiple shots at law enforcement officials throughout the incident."

The woman was safely freed from the residence by officers around 2:30 Saturday morning, with the standoff coming to an end after the suspect was shot during a confrontation with officers. According to the KBI, citing preliminary information, it was "during the rescue attempt, McCray and the hostage were separated momentarily, and a KHP trooper fired at McCray striking him. At that time, the hostage was safely rescued."

According to Wilson, McCray was transported to Amberwell Atchison and then transferred to a Kansas City hospital where, according to the KBI Saturday afternoon, he remained in critical condition.

No other injuries are reported to have occurred during the standoff.

The investigation remains under the direction of the KBI, who will be offering victim support services to the rescued hostage.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council voted to have city staff look into requirements for allowing utility vehicles and golf carts to be operated on city street between dusk and dawn.

Third Ward Councilman Shawn Fouraker presented the topic noting that he has been contacted several times about allowing the vehicles to be driven after dark if they have proper headlights and tail lighting.

Ward I Councilman Don Ferguson raised a concern about liability especially concerning golf carts, asking if the city would be liable if they were driving on city streets without proper lighting and were involved in an accident.

Ferguson also noted several changes that would need to be addressed if a change is made to the current policy of allowing the UTV's and golf carts to be driven in town during daylight hours.

Currently you must be 18 years old and have a valid operators license to drive UTV's and golf carts on city streets, and they are not to be driven on Harlan Street, which is Highway 73 or on Highways 8 and 159.

The action taken Tuesday night does not mean the vehicles can be driven on city streets after sundown as of now.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Highway Superintendent Steve Dareaux Jr. reported to the Board of Commissioners this week that the 1 & 6 Year Road Plan is being developed and that notice has been given that the public hearing on the proposed plan will be Wednesday, February 12 at 10 a.m. at the Courthouse.

Clerk of the District Court Pam Scott submitted information on a grant from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Child Support Enforcement for enforcement service in Richardson County.

The 5-year grant reimburses counties for funds spent on child support enforcement.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty also met with Commissioners, reporting there are 19 inmates being held at the Law Enforcement Center and that he plans to provide more training for the jailers in order to improve the workflow in the jail.

(KLZA)-- Jason Vetrovsky will serve another term as President of the Pawnee City Board of Education. Vetrovsky was reelected when the Board met Monday evening.

Bobby Haarhues was elected Vice-President; Hope Koester was elected Board Secretary and Hanna Brumbaugh will serve as Treasurer.

The Board approved the Pawnee City Public Schools Strategic Plan for 2025 - 2030.

Superintendent Brian Rottinghaus was authorized to solicit bids for the High School and Gymnasium HVAC systems with the stipulation that the gymnasium might not be done at this point.

(KNZA)--Bids were opened at Tuesday's Brown County Commission meeting for the remodeling and construction of an addition to the Noxious Weed and Solid Waste building at the county landfill.

Three bids were received.

The apparent low bid was submitted by Bob Rahe Construction, of Hiawatha, in the amount of $178,991.

BB Brothers Contractor, of Hiawatha, submitted a bid for $206,326.

BHS Construction, of Manhattan, submitted a bid for $685,384.

A decision was tabled until next week's meeting to allow Landfill Director Don Pounds and Noxious Weed Director Richard Rodvelt to review the bids.

Pounds said the current building is in poor shape due a lack of maintenance in past years.

The 30 by 40 foot addition will house an office for the landfill director and noxious weed director.

(KAIR)--Whether it be a "Match Day," a "Day of Giving," or some other similar fundraiser, community foundations are behind such endeavors, leaving some to ask "What is a Community Foundation?"

The answer will come on the evening of Wednesday, January 29, as the Atchison Area Community Foundation hosts a panel discussion regarding the organization which provides financial assistance to local non-profit agencies.

The evening, a release says, will be devoted to discussing charitable giving, local nonprofits, and critical community issues.

The discussion will begin at 7:00 at the Atchison Cultural Center for the Arts, located at 111 North 8th Street.

Drinks and light snacks will be served during the forum, which is open to the public.

The Atchison Community Foundation's "All Aboard Atchison" fundraiser, held in August of last year, generated more than $400,000 for Atchison-area not-for-profit agencies and organizations.

(KAIR)--The Atchison City Commission has approved an ordinance allowing the use of UTV's on city streets.

That happened Tuesday when the Commission met one day later than usual, due to Monday's Dr. Martin Luther King holiday.

The proposal to allow the use of the vehicles has long been pushed by resident Kim Bottorff who, following the Commission's decision, voiced her excitement on social media, crediting City of Atchison staff and officials, including Police Chief Mike Wilson and City Manager Mark Westhoff, saying the Commissioners and staff were "approachable to hearing our request and approving the ordinance."

The ordinance will take effect February 1. It requires, in part, that UTV operators be at least 18-years-old, must have insurance, and all standard operating equipment must be present on the vehicle, including turn signals. Operators will be required to follow all standard City of Atchison traffic rules.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Community Foundation, serving Hiawatha, Robinson, Reserve and Fairview, has announced the receipt of a Patterson Family Foundation Capacity Building Grant.

The grant program was created to help rural community foundations address staffing challenges.

According to a release, the grant will allow the Hiawatha Community Foundation the ability to hire its first executive director.

The executive director will focus on various areas, including grant-making and marketing the funds of the foundation. The executive director will collaborate with local leaders to raise assets and be a philanthropic resource for non-profits. This will allow the foundation to be better prepared to meet the needs of the community.

The Patterson Family Foundation is a family foundation extending the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson with a focus on improving health care, education and economic opportunity.

The Hiawatha Community Foundation was established in 2020 to support programs and projects that enhance the quality of life for Hiawatha residents today and into the future. Currently, the Foundation is managed by a volunteer board.

(MSC News)--Stormont Vail Health and Holton Community Hospital are excited to announce the launch of a new Endocrinology Outreach Clinic at Holton Community Hospital, located at 1110 Columbine Dr., Holton, KS 66436.

The clinic, opening on January 25, will bring expert care for individuals with endocrine disorders closer to home, providing specialized treatment for conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and more.

The clinic will be led by Bailey Cole, APRN-C, DNP, a dedicated and experienced healthcare professional with a passion for improving patients’ quality of life. “My biggest goal is to support the patient while guiding them to a healthier and more comfortable life,” said Cole. “I want a collaborative approach to improve your life by meeting your endocrinology needs.”

Cole earned her doctoral degree from Washburn University in 2020 and began her career as an emergency room nurse. She later transitioned to diabetes care, helping patients manage blood sugar levels during hospital stays. Since early 2024, Cole has practiced at the Stormont Vail Health Endocrinology Center, gaining extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a range of endocrine disorders.

The new outreach clinic will offer personalized patient care, comprehensive assessments, and tailored treatment plans. Services provided will address a variety of conditions, including:

• Diabetes

• Thyroid disorders

• Adrenal disorders

• Pituitary gland problems

• Infertility

• Osteoporosis

• Growth hormone deficiency

• Cholesterol problems

• Hypertension

• Obesity

With a focus on accessibility and compassionate care, Cole is committed to meeting the unique healthcare needs of the Holton community.

Appointments for the endocrinology outreach clinic require a referral from a primary care provider. To schedule an appointment or learn more, call the Cotton O’Neil Diabetes & Endocrinology Center at 785-354-9591. For additional information, visit their website HERE.

(KNZA)--Courthouse security was discussed when the Brown County Commission met Tuesday.

On hand for the discussion were Sheriff John Merchant, District Judge John Weingart, District Judge Laura Johnson-McNish and County Attorney Kevin Hill.

The topic was placed on the agenda after Commissioner Bill Pollock brought up the subject at last week's meeting.

Currently, a security guard is stationed at the front entrance and the public is required to go through a metal detector.

Pollock would like to see changes made to the security measures, which have been in place since 2018. He argued not everyone needs to be checked and would like to see the security guard to be allowed to move about the courthouse.

Hill said there have been several incidents in the past that have warranted the security steps. He noted a survey of courthouse personnel showed overwhelming support for continuing with security at the front entrance.

Commission Chairman Lucas Heinen said he heard some legitimate concerns from the public about the security measures.

Commissioner Rich Lehmkuhl said he supports the courthouse security. He voiced liability concerns if the Commission was to make a change and something happened.

Heinen invited Merchant back to next week meeting to further discuss the issue.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Department remains busy making drug-related arrests.

In the past month, six arrests have been made involving various drug charges.

December 20, 38-year-old Dustin Bernard of Falls City was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, delivery of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a playground, possession of drug paraphernalia and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. He is being held on a $5,000 bond.

On December 31, 61-year-old Angela Lees and 58-year-old Stacey Lees, both of Stella were arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and maintaining a drug house.

Also arrested December 31, 51-year-old Bradley Spunaugle of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was arrested for delivery of a controlled substance near a playground, possession of marijuana, more than one ounce but less than one pound, and possession of a legend drug and drug paraphernalia. Spunnaugle is held on a $2,500 bond.

January 3, 31-year-old Chance Dunback of Salem was arrested for delivery of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of playground and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

January 6, 36-year-old Max Shafter IV of Shubert was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of a weapon by a felon, possession of a weapon during the commission of a felony

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central Board of Education has approved the addition of girls golf as a fall sport at the high school, beginning in the fall of 2025.

The board unanimously approved the addition of the sport when they met last week.

That came after Superintendent Tavis Desormiers reviewed estimated startup costs for the program and scheduling possibilities.

A group of Nemaha Central High School students appeared at last month's board meeting to request that the sport be added.

In other business, the board approved the 2025-26 school calendar as presented. The first day of school will be August 14 and the final day for students will be May 19.

The board elected officers for 2025. Amy Sudbeck was re-elected as board president and Cara Baker as vice-president.

In addition, the board approved the purchase of a Skid-Steer loader from Case IH with a bucket attachment and a rotary broom for a total of $49,200 with a trade-in.

(KAIR)--The railroad crossing at Atchison's 4th Street reopened Tuesday night at 10:00 more than 24 hours after Monday evening- Union Pacific train derailment that forced the closure.

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, cleanup continues, but the crossing is cleared and no longer a factor.

Also continuing is the joint investigation between Atchison Police and Union Pacific officials into what caused the derailment of six empty coal cars around 6:35 Monday evening, which also led to response from the Atchison Fire Department, although the derailment caused no fire, property damages, or injuries.

(KAIR)--A prestigious honor for an Atchison Elementary school teacher, awarded the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching.

According to a release from Atchison's USD 409, receiving the honor is 5th grade teacher Angela Gray who, according the official website for the award, receives a certificate signed by the President of the United States, a trip to Washington D.C. to attend a series of recognition events and professional development opportunities, and a $10,000 award from the National Science Foundation.

The website calls the award "the highest recognition that a kindergarten through 12th grade science, technology, engineering, or mathematics teacher may receive for outstanding teaching in the United States."

Up to 110 teachers are recognized with the award each year.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of White Cloud public water supply system located in Doniphan 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 January 21 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 785-741-3695, 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)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Department along with several other departments are investigating a wreck that occurred Friday morning around 8:30 on Highway 75 in Dawson, which caused the highway to be shut down for several hours.

A semi-truck and trailer collided with a Herzog Maintenance train at the railroad crossing on the south edge of Dawson. The trailer the semi was pulling impacted a vehicle that was waiting for the train to pass.

Members of the Humboldt Rescue Squad checked on the well-being of the passengers in the vehicle. The driver was transported and later released.

No other injuries were reported.

The driver of the semi was issued a citation for multiple offenses. Packages carried by the semi were strewn onto the highway and off the edge of the road.

(KLZA)-- The Johnson-Brock School Board elected officers for 2025 when they met last week.

Keith Bohling will serve another term as Board President with Chester Boholing serving as Vice-President.

Blayne Behrends was elected Board Secretary and Kelli Bohling will continue to serve as Board Treasurer.

The Board reviewed options for Spanish instruction and Principal, Dr. Lucus Dalinghaus recommended a Board retreat be scheduled to address issues including an upcoming decline in enrollment.

Boarfd members met in closed session for nearly an hour to discuss teacher negotiations.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Office has released a report on their 2024 activities and included statistics from the past five years as well.

Drugs, especially methamphetamine have been a continuing problem in the country and Richardson County.

With the use and sales of hard drugs comes many other crimes such as thefts, burglaries, and many others.

Those crimes were especially prevalent in years past, and that is why the Richardson County Sheriff- Office has made investigating drug crimes their number 1 priority according to Sheriff Rick Hardesty.

In the past five years, the Richardson County Sheriff's Office has made over 18,000 traffic stops and executed more than 220 search warrants, 80 of which were residential search warrants.

During those 5 years, deputies have seized drugs of nearly every class including methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, fentanyl, psylocibin mushrooms, marijuana, concentrated THC products and various illegal pills.

Many of those seizures included firearms and drug money.

During 2024, the Sheriff's Department continued their proactive enforcement by making over 4,000 traffic stops and executing 25 residential search warrants, 9 more than any other year in the past 5.

Search warrants were executed in Dawson (4), Falls City (13), Humboldt (5), rural Richardson County (2), and Stella (1).

One notable case included a large methamphetamine investigation, in early 2024, that resulted in numerous search warrants and arrests in Falls City, rural Richardson County, and Humboldt. That investigation also resulted in deputies identifying methamphetamine suppliers in Missouri and Kansas. Coordination with partners in those jurisdictions resulted in arrests of those subjects as well. Other notable cases include an investigation with the Nebraska Game and Parks that resulted in the seizure of

9 pounds of marijuana and 7 firearms in Humboldt and a pursuit with a stolen vehicle that resulted in the apprehension of 2 wanted juveniles out of North Dakota.

Multiple other cases were investigated by deputies including cases of child exploitation.

In addition to being proactive, deputies make it a priority to be in every area and town of the County multiple times a day and night. Deputies work 24/7 patrolling every corner of the county in an effort to catch anyone who thinks it- a good idea to come to this County and conduct criminal activity.

2024 Stats:

Calls for Service (including traffic stops): 7,190

Total Traffic Stops: 4,28; Search Warrants: 50 (25 residential

Total Jail Bookings: 567 with 472 by the Sheriff's Department, 72 by other agencies and there were 23 out of county holds.

Calls For Service including Traffic Stops; 2020 to 2024 (33, 419)

( The first number for each year is the total with the second number those done by the RCSD)

Traffic Stop Statistics for 2020 to 2024 (18,445)

2020: 4,079 2020: 1,554

2021: 6,931 2021: 3,484

2022: 7,293 2022: 3,958

2023: 7,926 2023: 5,168

2024: 7,190 2024: 4,281

Jail Bookings Total 2020 to 2024 (2,860) Jail Bookings

By RCSO 2020 to 2024 (2,302)

2020: 470 2020: 297

2021: 583 2021: 466

2022: 664 2022: 567

2023: 576 2023: 500

2024: 567 2024: 472

Search Warrant Statistic for 2020 to 2024

Residential Search Warrants (80 Total)

2020: 14

2021: 16

2022: 14

2023: 11

2024: 25

Total Search Warrants (220 Total) (Electronic Devices, Residences, Vehicles, Social Media, etc.)

2020: 14 (Residential was the only statistic kept for 2020)

2021: 50

2022: 81

2023: 25

2024: 50

(KNZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has approved bids for two Brown County projects.

According to KDOT, Commanche Construction, of Olathe, was awarded the contract for the repair of a bridge on U.S. 73 Highway over the Union Pacific Railroad about 4 miles north of the U.S. 73/K-20 west junction in the amount of $622,471.

Also a bid was approved from Barkley Construction, of Wichita, for a crack repair project on U.S. 75 Highway, from a quarter mile south of 320th Road to north a quarter mile, in the amount of $198,328.

Start dates for the projects have not been announced yet.

The bid letting took place December 18th, in Topeka.

(KAIR)--An early Monday evening railroad derailment, in Atchison, caused no injuries but has closed the city's 4th Street railroad crossing indefinitely.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson tells MSC News the accident led to the derailment of six empty coal cars, with no additional hazards resulting from the derailment.

Wilson says his officers were on the scene of the accident, which occurred around 6:35 Monday evening, with the wreckage extending between 4th and 5th Streets in the rail yards.

Other than the derailed rail cars, Wilson says there was no additional damage.

Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, in a release, says his department also responded to the scene; but despite an initial report of a fire, found none. He says the train was westbound at the time of the derailment, and came to stop near the 5th Street overpass.

According to Weishaar, the rail company Monday evening was working to remove the derailed cars, but the 4th Street crossing remains closed to traffic, a closure that Wilson says will remain in place "for an extended period of time."

The cause of the derailment is under the investigation of Atchison Police and Union Pacific.

(KLZA)-- Falls City Economic Development and Growth Enterprise conducted the organizations annual banquet and business meeting last week at the Falls City Elk's Lodge.

During the meeting, EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl presented the Investor of the Year award to Hullman's Ford / Lincoln of Falls City, honoring them for their contributions over the years to the community including renovations to the former Firestone building and adding services and jobs.

Froeschl presented information on the Citroniq Company that is working toward constructing a plant to transfer ethanol produced from Nebraska corn into bio-based polypropylene pellets used in the production of automobile parts and many other things, efforts to bring more electrical power to the community and touched on other developments.

New Nebraska 1st District State Senator Bob Hallstrom was the guest speaker for the event. In office for just over a week, Hallstrom said is has been a busy first week with bill introductions, elections of committee chairs and appointments to various committees. Hallstrom has been appointed to Banking, Commerce and Insurance Committee, and the Judiciary Committee. Hallstrom was elected vice-chairman of the Banking Committee.

Hallstrom introduced LR 13CA during bill introduction last week. If passed by the Legislature, and then the voters of Nebraska, it would end the collection of inheritance taxes in Nebraska.

Those wanting to learn more about EDGE or become investors may contact Froeschl at the EDGE Office 1t 1705 Stone Street or email him at Director@FallsCity EDGE.com

(KLZA)-- The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for Southeast Nebraska, Northesat Kansas and Northwest Missouri, that is in effect through noon Tuesday, January 21.

Wind chills as low as 25 below are possible which means frostbite of exposed skin is possible in as little as 30 minutes.

If you must be outside wear appropriate clothing, a hat and gloves.
If you are traveling use caution.

(KNZA)-Voters in the Doniphan West school district will decide the fate of $6.3 million bond issue for facility improvements during a February 4th special election.

The Doniphan West USD 111 Board of Education approved a resolution last October to pursue the bond issue after two years of in-depth study and community collaboration.

According to the school district, the proposed improvements focus on enhancing safety, aging infrastructure, and maintaining the district's ability to provide a high quality learning environment for students.

The district says if the bond issue passes, the funding would be used to address four key priority areas. They include safety and security enhancements, HVAC and electrical upgrades, structural repairs and roof replacements, site improvements, and enhanced educational spaces.

The bond issue would require a 6.1 mill levy increase levy over a 20-year period to pay for the bonds and interest. For the owner of a $150,000 home, it would mean an annual property tax increase of $105.

Two informational meetings will be held next week on the bond issue. The first will take place Monday evening, January 27 at 6:00 at the Doniphan West Elementary School and the other on Wednesday evening, January 29th at 7:00 at the Doniphan West Junior High/Senior High School. The public is invited to attend.

Also, the school district has created an informational flier that will be mailed out to all registered voters in the Doniphan West School District. Also, a come-and-go event will be held at Kirkwood's restaurant in Highland this Wednesday evening, January 22 from 5:00 to 6:30 to share information and answer questions on the bond issue.

(KMZA)--The Marysville Police Department is among eight agencies in Kansas awarded more than $2.6 million in funding through the Federal Byrne State Crisis Intervention Grant Program.

Governor Kelly announced the funding Thursday.

The Marysille Police Department was awarded just over $32,000.

Kelly said the funding supports innovative strategies and programs designed to reduce violent crime, target risk factors likely to lead to violence, and provide behavioral health crises intervention services.

(KAIR)--Atchison County USD 377 has begun the search for a new elementary school principal.

Following an executive session at their January 8th meeting, the USD 377 Board of Education accepted the resignation of Mandi McMillan as elementary principal.

The resignation is effective at the end of the current school year.

McMillan has served as elementary principal since the 2016-17 school year. Prior to that, she taught 4th grade at the school.

Also at the meeting, board officers were elected for 2025.

Lori Lanter was re-elected as board president , and Corey Neill as vice-president.

In addition, the board approved the purchase of a 2014 Ford Expedition, with extended warranty, from Foster Ford in the amount of $26,875.

(KLZA)-A man convicted in the 2010 death of a Peru State College student is seeking a new trial.

The Beatrice Daily Sun reports Joshua Keadle is arguing that his attorneys were ineffective and failed to call witnesses who could have helped his case.

Keadle filed the request for a new trial last week in Gage County District Court.

He was convicted in 2020 of second-degree murder in the death of 19-year-old Tyler Thomas and was sentenced to 71 years in prison.

Thomas went missing after a night of drinking on Dec. 3, 2010, and her body has never been recovered.

The Nebraska Supreme Court affirmed Keadle's conviction in 2022.

(KLZA)--First District Commissioner John Caverzagie will serve as Chairman of the Richardson County Board of Commissioners for 2025 with District 3 Commissioner Rick Karas serving as Vice-Chairman.

They were elected to the positions during the annual meeting of the Board on Wednesday.

The Board reaffirmed the appointments of Steve Darveau Jr. as Highway Superintendent with an annual salary of $70,227.

Brian Kirkendall was reappointed Emergency Management Director and Noxious Weed Control Superintendent with an annual salary of $66,895.

Both received 2 percent salary increases.

The reappointment of Mona Godemann as Veterans Service Officer for 2025 was tabled.

Dr. Alan Tram was reappointed to the County Health Board for 2025 and Charles O'Grady to the Richardson County Planning Commission for a term of 3 years.

There is a position on the County Planning Commission that remains open. An appointment to the open position will be considered during a later meeting.

Commissioners approved an agreement with Combined Public Communications for phone calling card service, inmate messaging service, commissary and other services for inmates to purchase.

The 2024 annual report of the Noxious Weed Control program was presented by Brian Kirkendall. It will be submitted to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Protection.

( KNZA)--The Hiawatha School Board approved the calendar for the 2025-26 school year when they meet Monday evening.

The first day of school will be August 14 and the last day of school will be May 21. Winter break will take place December 19-January 2nd, and spring break will be held March 16-20.

The calendar calls for a total of 172 student contact days.

The calendar is developed with the input of a committee of staff from each of the school buildings.

In other business, Dustin Avery, the district's bond representative with Piper Sandler, discussed the state of the current bond as well as future bond options.

Avery discussed several different bond scenarios, along with timelines for potential future bond issues. Avery said if the board is targeting a November election then August would be the latest action would need to be taken, and if a spring of 2026 election is what the board is targeting they would need to act in January of 2026.

In board accepted a bid from IAO Electric, of rural Hiawatha, for a new back-up generator at the middle school in the amount of $34,925. It was among 3 bids received.

The board approved the purchase a new 71-passenger bus for $142,459.

Following an executive session, the board accepted the resignation of elementary school Title 1 teacher Emily Chandler, effective at the end of the current school year.

The board also approved the hiring of Matt Morton as head high school boys and girls track and field coach and Ryan Smith as middle school basketball coach.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has organized for the new year.

During their annual organizational meeting Monday, 2nd District Commissioner Wayne Grable was re-appointed as board chairman for 2025 on a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Timothy Collins cast the dissenting vote.

Collins was re-appointed as vice-chairman.

Commissioners also voted to re-appoint Jim Norris as noxious weed director, Sheryl Pierce as Health Department/Home Health Administrator and Dr. Bradley Gaul as county health officer for 2025.

That came after Magistrate Judge Kelly Fuemmeler administered the oath of office to newly elected Sheriff Mark Allen and Register of Deeds Rhian Ptomey, along with re-elected 2nd District Commissioner Wayne Grable, 3rd District Commissioner Bobby Hall, County Clerk Peggy Franken, County Attorney Charles Baskins and County Treasurer Nichole Diveley

(KMZA)--After months of discussion, the Seneca City Council has approved a site for the new substation and generation project.

On the recommendation of the council's utility committee, the City Council voted unanimously Wednesday evening to go with the Jaycee's ball field site for the location of the project, which will include 3 generators.

It was among two sites considered.

Utility committee member Joe Schmelzle said its the cheapest site and the best use of taxpayer funds.

City Administrator Steve Brooks said the project layout has been changed to allow for more green space at the ball field site. He also said some trees could be planted in the future to improve the aesthetic appeal.

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

During the public comment portion of the meeting, Lacy Bergman addressed the Council with her concerns about food trucks being allowed in the downtown commercial business district, which she says hurt local businesses. Bergman said food trucks should be limited to times when local businesses are not in operation, and asked that the city ordinance be changed. Mayor Joe Mitchell said he agreed and has asked the city administrator to draft a revised ordinance for Council consideration.

In other business, an ordinance was approved establishing new water rates as approved by the Council at their January 2nd meeting. The new rates will take effect next month.

In a related matter, the Council approved a new water rate agreement with Nemaha County Rural Water District #3.

The Council also accepted the resignation of police officer Austin Watts.

(KLZA)--No serious injuries were reported after a semi collided with a train in Richardson County Friday morning.

The Richardson County Sheriff's Office says shortly after 8:30 deputies were dispatched to Dawson where there was a semi that had collided with a Herzog Maintenace train.

The semi's trailer then impacted a vehicle that was waiting for the train to pass.

Highway 75 was shut down for several hours during the investigation.

Passengers of the vehicle were checked out by Humboldt Recuse with the driver being transported and later released. No other injuries reported.

The driver of the semi was issued a citation for multiple offenses.

The investigation continues.

(KNZA)--The public is invited to attend an open house for the new event center at Banner Creek Reservoir, west of Holton, Saturday morning.

A special ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for 8:00, followed by an open house appreciation breakfast from 8:30 to 10:30 at the new building located on the north side of the reservoir.

Members of Friends of Banner Creek Reservoir and the Jackson County Commission are hosting the appreciation breakfast, which is a “ come and go” event.

A ground breaking ceremony was held in March of last year for the 48 by 72 foot building, which was constructed by Aeschliman Construction, of Holton, for a total cost of around $390,000.

Friends of Banner Creek Reservoir raised a total of $160,000 for the project, and was awarded an additional $160,000 matching grant by the state. County funds covered the remainder of the project cost.

(KLZA)--The Pawnee City School Board accepted the resignations from Superintendent Brian Rottinghaus, School Board member Corey Hatfield and teacher Tyler Ferebee when they met Monday night.

Rottinghaus has been the Superintendent and elementary principal at Pawnee City for nine years. His resignation is effective at the end of the current school year. He has accepted the position of Superintendent with the Tri County School District.

Corey Hatfield noted in his letter of resignation from the Pawnee City School Board that he has accepted a new position which he feels does not align with being an effective school board member. His position on the Board is now open.

Tyler Ferebee has been with the Pawnee City School District serving as Science teacher since 2004 and has accepted a similar position elsewhere.

Following presentations from Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association and the Nebraska Association of School Boards about Superintendent Search services, the Board voted to use the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association as the Superintendent search firm.

(KAIR)--A "Medical Lockdown," lasting less than ten minutes, went into place Thursday afternoon at Atchison High School, with parents and patrons alerted of the situation through emergency message.

Sent at 1:24 Thursday afternoon, the message read, in part, that with the Medical Lockdown in place, "students are to remain in classrooms until the medical situation is taken care of and the medical lockdown is lifted."

At 1:32 a second alert was sent, telling recipients that the lockdown was lifted, and "AHS is resuming the normal schedule."

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Renee Nugent, through emailed correspondence with MSC News, explained that a medical lockdown is a protocol the school district "occasionally implement[s] when EMS is called to our campus to respond to a medical situation involving a student or staff member, adding that the measure "ensures the safety and privacy of those involved while also allowing emergency personnel to navigate the building and provide care without disruption. During a medical lockdown, students and staff remain in their classrooms until the situation is resolved and the lockdown is lifted."

From implementation to cancellation, the lockdown was in place for, Nugent says, "under 9 minutes."

(KLZA)--The Nemaha Natural Resources District Board of Directors elected officers for 2025 when they met on January 9th. .

Russel Moss was elected Chairman, Alan Romine - Vice Chairman, Tim Loeske - Secretary/Treasurer.

Orval Gigstad will remain the Nebraska Association of Resources District Representative.

One well permit was approved for G. Pietzyk in Johnson County.

The Board also approved replacing the existing restroom at Wirth Brothers Recreation Area with a concrete restroom.

(KAIR)--The Atchison County Commission has organized for the new year, making that move after officials, both elected and appointed, were sworn in to their roles for 2025.

That happened Monday, during a special organizational meeting of the Commission, with Judge John Fresh administering the oath of office.

Among those sworn in were 1st District County Commissioner James Campbell, appointed to that position by the Atchison County GOP during a December convention. He fills the vacancy created by the November election of former Commissioner Dr. Allen Reavis as 63rd District State Representative.

Incumbent Commissioners Eric Noll, of the 2nd District, and Casey Quinn, of the 3rd District, were also sworn in for their new terms of office.

Newly appointed Atchison County Clerk Susan Carrigan was also sworn into her office, replacing the now-retired longtime Clerk, Michelle Phillips. Carrigan was appointed during a January convention of the Atchison County GOP.

Blair Burton, elected in November, was sworn in as Register of Deeds, while Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker and Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie were also sworn in for their new terms.

Once the ceremony concluded, the Commission appointed its leadership for the new year, with Quinn retained in the Chairperson's position while Noll will serve the year as Vice-Chair.

(KAIR)--Atchison's Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum is in the running to be named Best History Museum, nominated for the USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards for 2025.

According to a release from the museum, "the travel experts of USA Today have selected twenty nominees, and it- now up to
the public to select the best history museum in the country," with online voting now underway. That can be accomplished, once a day through February 10 by going here.

Museum Executive Director, Mindi Love Pendergraft in the release, calls telling the story of one-time Atchison resident Earhart and her achievements in aviation "a real passion for [museum] staff," adding that they're "thrilled to be nominated as one of the best history
museums" and "proud to be included in this impressive list of museums."

The release calls the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, which opened in April 2023, "one of a few to blend interactive STEM and historical storytelling" as it brings to life for visitors "Earhart's life as a trailblazing aviator who defied the odds to become the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean."

The centerpiece of the museum is "Muriel," the world's last remaining Lockheed Electra 10-E, identical to the one Earhart flew on her final flight around the world when she disappeared in 1937.

(KNZA)--Two individuals were arrested for the alleged possession of methamphetamine following separate traffic stops in Jackson County this week.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said 40-year-old Nichole Allen, of Topeka, was arrested early Sunday morning after a Sheriff's deputy stopped a vehicle on 150th Road, just west of U.S. 75 Highway.

Allen was arrested on charges of possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended, improper driving on a landed roadway and defective tag lamp.

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

Morse said 36-year-old Colby Gant, of Council Grove, was arrested early Monday morning after a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a car on U.S. 75 Highway near 126th Road.

A Sheriff's Office K-9 alerted to the presence of illegal drugs in the vehicle.

Gant was arrested for possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while license suspended, no insurance and inoperable tag lamp.

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

(KAIR)--An inmate at the Lansing Correctional Facility is dead, with the 25-year-old found ill inside the facility clinic Tuesday afternoon, according to a release from Kansas Department of Corrections.

Identified as Angel Pedro Lara, the release explains that "Staff and Emergency Medical Service personnel administered life-saving measures [Tuesday] and transported Lara to a local hospital.

Lara was pronounced dead Wednesday morning, with his cause of death unspecified, pending the results of an independent autopsy.

The release says Lara was serving a 123-month sentence for convictions of 2nd degree murder in Sedgwick County, Kansas.

(KLZA)-- Three new members took their seats as members of the Falls City Board of Education Monday night.

Newly elected Board members Gabe Ramsey, Kevin Scheitel and Roger Windle were sworn in to begin their 4-year terms.

The Board recognized three members leaving the Board for their years of dedicated service. Scott Hollens has served 16 years on the Board, June Bowers 10 years and Dan Jones four years.

Cassondra Goff was elected President of the Board for 2025 with Anthony Johansen elected Vice-President.

In one action item on the agenda, District 56 approved the Negotiated Master Teacher Contract for the 2025-26 school year.

(KLZA)-- The Auburn Board of Education met Monday night and newly elected Board members Janny Crotty, Grant Brueggemann and Eli Davidson assumed the oath of office.

Outgoing Board members Stephen Kennedy, Bill Chapin and James Paschal were recognized and 2024 Board President Ryan Jones was also recognized.

Laura Osborne was elected Board President for 2025 with Beth Kernes Krause elected Vice President of the Board.

Ryan Jones will serve as Board Secretary and Eli Davidson will serve as Treasurer for 2025.

(KNZA)--The Prairie Hills USD 113 Board of Education has accepted the retirement resignation of Superintendent Todd Evans.

The action followed an executive session Monday evening.

Evans has served as superintendent for the past 11 years. Prior to that, he served as Sabetha High School Principal for 15 years.

His resignation is effective June 30th.

Board President Leslie Scoby said in a release that while Evans leadership will be missed, the board is prepared to hire a candidate that will continue to build upon the good work that has been undertaken to serve the district's students.

Following the acceptance Evans' resignation, the USD 113 Board hired the Kansas Association of School Boards to facilitate the superintendent search process.

"Mr. Evans has assured us that he will assist with the transfer of leadership to make it as seamless as possible. We are fortunate to be in a situation where we have time to prepare and thoroughly research the position and the applicants to find the best fit to serve the students of USD 113." said Scoby

Scoby went on to say, "We are proud of the accomplishments that USD 113 has achieved during Mr. Evans' tenure."

(KNZA)--Two new commissioners took their seats on the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening after being sworn in.

Mayor Becky Shamburg welcomed new commissioners Laura Tollefson and Tom Martin to the Commission.

That came after City Clerk Dawn Boyles administered the oath of office to the pair, along with Commissioner Brian Shefferd, who was re-elected last November. Shefferd joined the meeting via Zoom.

In other business, the Commission on a 4-1 vote adopted a resolution advising the issuance of $1.2 million in industrial revenue bonds to finance improvements to the Best Western Plus Hotel located on East Lodge Road. Shefferd cast the dissenting vote, questioning where you draw the line in granting such requests.

The city's bond counsel, Kevin Cowan, said the hotel owner wants to make upgrades to the facility to keep it viable.

Cowan said the owner is also asking for a property tax abatement and a sales tax exemption, which were incentives utilized originally with the hotel project

The Commission also approved a resolution establishing a pay plan for city employees for 2025. City Administrator Brad Scott said it includes a 3 percent pay increase for certain employees and a higher starting wage for police officers.

Mayor Shamburg and Commissioners thanked city staff for their efforts in clearing streets following the winter blizzard earlier this month.

(KNZA)--A Horton man convicted on sex crimes involving an adult female has been sentenced to ten years in prison.

Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said 26-year-old Cody Ptomey was handed the sentence Monday in Brown County District Court on charges of rape and aggravated sexual battery.

He pleaded no contest to the charges last November.

During the sentencing hearing, Hill said Ptomey presented testimony from a clinical psychiatrist in Kansas City and requested a sentence of 80 months in prison.

He said the state countered that Ptomey- acts were extremely violent and that it merited significantly more prison time than the 80 months being recommended by Ptomey and his legal counsel.

In the end, after hearing about the impact Ptomey- crimes had on the victim, Hill said the District Court agreed that Ptomey- actions merited a significantly higher sentence and imposed a sentence of 120 months in prison.

Ptomey was remanded to the Brown County Jail to be delivered to the Kansas Department of Corrections to begin serving his prison sentence.

After being released from prison, Ptomey will have to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life and be placed on lifetime post release supervision with the Department of Corrections.

(KLZA)-- The Richardson County Sheriff's Department received 7,190 activity calls during 2024 with 4,281 being traffic stops.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported to the Richardson County Commissioners last week that there were 527 jail bookings during the year with 472 made by the Sheriff's Office, 72 of them done by other agencies and there were 23 holds for other counties.

In addition, 25 residential search warrants were executed with 34 persons being arrested. 14 of the residential search warrants were executed in Falls City, 5 in Humboldt and 4 in Dawson.

Sheriff Hardesty also reported the department continues to advertise for jailers and dispatchers to fill vacancies.

(KAIR)--A longtime member of the Atchison Police Department is receiving recognition, named as the City of Atchison's ACE of the Month.

According to a release from the City, the honor is earned, for January, by 24-year employee Kurtis Page, a Sergeant with the Police Department, who was nominated for the award by his shift.

Among Page's service to the community, as noted in the release, was his helping a distressed individual remove themselves from the railroad bridge over the Missouri River, coordinating a response from his fellow officers and the Atchison Fire Department, to see a safe outcome.
The release notes that Page, during the rescue, "did an excellent job of talking [the person] through the situation…and if not for [Page], the ending of that call would have been tragic.

Page, as part of his honor, receives the Ace Trophy for the month of January, a $50 gift card to a local business of his choice and will be in the running for Ace of the Year.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved the scope of work and agreement for professional services for the Downtown Revitalization Project in an amount of $129,800 when they met last week.

Falls City will be completing Phase 3 of the Downtown Streetscape Improvements which will include the west side of the 1400 block of Stone Street and both sides of the 1800 block of Stone Street.

The project will reconstruct the existing public infrastructure to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act. A secondary goal will be to improve the aesthetics for the area similar to improvements made in previous Phases in the 1500 and 1600 blocks of Stone Street and West 17th and 18th Streets.

(KLZA)-- Richardson County Commissioners received an update during their meeting last week on incidents that had occurred during the previous weekends severe snow storm.

Resolutions were approved for preliminary engineering services with Speece-Lewis Engineers and for an environmental services agreement with HDR Engineering for a project northwest of Falls City on 710 Road between 650 and 651 Avenue.

The Board also documented for the record the annual salary increase for 2025 of 2-percent for staff personnel in the offices of Assessor, Treasurer, Veteran's Service Office, Cooperative Extension Service, Courthouse Maintenance, Emergency Management Agency, County Clerk and Clerk of the District Court.

Board Chairman John Caverzagie made a presentation to Commissioner David Sickel for his 16 years of dedicated service as District 2 County Commissioner from January 8 2009 to January 8, 2025.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Library and Arts Center was recently awarded a grant trough the Pilcrow Foundation's Children's Book Project.

The Pilcrow Foundation is a national non-profit public charity whose mission is to provide new, quality, hardcover children's books to rural public libraries.

The Falls City Library will be receiving 71 new, hardcover children's books selected from a list provided by the Foundation. The new books will be part of the library's permanent collection.

To qualify, libraries must be located in a rural area and have a limited operating budget, have an active children's department, and raise $200 - $400 through a local sponsor.

The $400 was donated by The Friends of the Falls City Library and Arts Center.

The total value of the grant, including the local match was $1,978.

The Falls City Library and Arts Center invites the public to an open house Thursday, January 16, from 4 - 6 p.m. to celebrate the receipt of the grant award and to see the new books.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has organized for the new year.

During their annual organizational meeting Monday, the Commission approved a resolution appointing new 2nd District Commissioner Lucas Heinen as board chairman for 2025. He replaces Rich Lehmkuhl who served as chairman for 2024.

It marked the first meeting for Heinen, who was elected last November and was sworn in prior to the meeting.

The Commission approved a resolution designating The Horton Headlight as the official county newspaper for 2025. That came after the Commission accepted the low bid submitted by the newspaper for the publication of legal notices in the amount of $2.20 a column inch. The Hiawatha World submitted a bid of $2.25 per column inch.

The Commission also approved a resolution designating the Citizens State Bank and Trust Company, Morrill and Janes State Bank—a division of Bank of Blue Valley—and GN Bank as the official 2025 Brown County banks for checking and investments.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County, Kansas Commission has approved the hiring of a new county administrator.

The Commission at their January 7th meeting approved an agreement with Robert Reece to fill the position, effective March 31st. The action came on a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Jason Koch casting the dissenting vote.

Reece currently serves as Finney County administrator, a position he's held since January 2020. Prior to that, he served as Pottawatomie County administrator for 20 years, and before that as the county's finance director.

Reece will replace Mike Miller, who submitted his resignation at the Commission's December 30th meeting, effective January 31st.

Miller has served as Nemaha County Administrator since October 2023.

The Commission voted 2-1 at their January 7th meeting to pay Miller a lump sum of $27,000 in severance pay, with Commissioner Koch casting the dissenting vote.

Also at the meeting, County Attorney Brad Lippert submitted his resignation from the position of county counselor, effective April 1st.

The Commission approved an appointment agreement with Austin Peters as the new Nemaha County Counselor, effective February 1st.

(KMZA)--A Wamego woman has died from injuries received in a two-vehicle crash early Friday morning in Pottawatomie County.

The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office, in a release Monday, identified the victim as 22-year-old Mary Miller.

The Sheriff's Office says Miller was traveling eastbound on Highway 24 near Belvue, around 6:45 Friday morning, when she lost control of her car due the icy/snowy road conditions and crossed the center line into the westbound lanes.

Her car struck a westbound pickup truck driven by Kelly O'Neill, of St. Mary's.

Miller was transported to a Topeka hospital where she died.

O'Neill was taken to the Wamego Health Center and treated for minor injuries.

The Sheriff's Office says both drivers were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

(KNZA)--A Fort Worth, Texas man, convicted on charges in connection with a fatal 2023 Jackson County crash that claimed the life of a Whiting woman, has been sentenced to 17 years and 11 months in prison.

According to court documents, 46-year-old Ayinde-Jriel James was handed the sentence last week in Jackson County District Court on charges of involuntary manslaughter while driving under the influence and aggravated battery while driving under the influence.

He pled to the amended charges last month as part of a plea agreement.

James was 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.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Planning Commission has voted to recommend the adoption of a zoning regulation that would prohibit the development of commercial wind energy projects in unincorporated areas of the county.

The action came Friday on a 6-0 vote, with member Lafe Bailey absent, and followed a public hearing drawing comments from three county residents, with two voicing support for the zoning regulation.

The Planning Commission was appointed by resolution of the County Commission to develop a comprehensive plan for Brown County and make recommendations about what zoning regulations the county should adopt.

Planning Commission Chairman Bill Vonderschmidt said its was the consensus of the commission that the need for zoning regulations in Brown County is limited, as zoning by law cannot regulate the use of agriculture land. However, he said it has been validated by the comprehensive plan and a survey conducted when it was developed that the potential adverse impacts of utility scale wind energy projects justify zoning control.

Vonderschmidt said the Planning Commission feels the need to regulate such projects is an urgent one because once construction is underway it would be too late and difficult to avoid its adverse impact.

He said the Planning Commission is concerned about large scale wind energy projects because they would significantly change the character of areas in which they are built, adversely affect residential land use as a result of noise and visual impact, as well as pose a significant risk to road and bridge infrastructure during construction.

The Planning Commission's recommendation will be forwarded to the Brown County Commission for consideration.

(KNZA)--Former Kickapoo Tribal Council Chairman Lester Randall has been sentenced after pleading guilty to multiple charges.

According to a release from the tribe, Randall pleaded guilty Friday to two counts of attempted homicide, along with one count each of attempted arson, assault in the second degree, larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny and embezzlement.

Under further questioning by the Tribal District Court Judge, the release says Randall admitted to a courtroom of Tribal members that he committed all the crimes to which he pled.

Randall was sentenced to banishment from the Kickapoo Tribe, payment of restitution in excess of $150,000, and forfeiture of 3 residential houses and numerous motor vehicles. Under traditional and customary Tribal Law, the sentence of banishment means that Randall is considered legally dead and a nonentity to the Kickapoo Tribe.

At the conclusion of the sentencing portion of the hearing, Randall was immediately taken into custody by federal law enforcement, as he is under two federal indictments for sexual exploitation of a minor, producing and receiving child pornography, enticement for prostitution and aggravated domestic battery.

“Members of our Tribe can now begin the process of healing from the hurt and damage caused by Lester Randall,” said Tribal Chairperson Gail Cheatham. “Randall has caused hurt and trauma on our Reservation that will take years to overcome.”

(KNZA)--Former Kickapoo Tribal Council Chairman Lester Randall has been sentenced after pleading guilty to multiple charges.

According to a release from the tribe, Randall pleaded guilty Friday to two counts of attempted homicide, along with one count each of attempted arson, assault in the second degree, larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny and embezzlement.

Under further questioning by the Tribal District Court Judge, the release says Randall admitted to a courtroom of Tribal members that he committed all the crimes to which he pled.

Randall was sentenced to banishment from the Kickapoo Tribe, payment of restitution in excess of $150,000, and forfeiture of 3 residential houses and numerous motor vehicles. Under traditional and customary Tribal Law, the sentence of banishment means that Randall is considered legally dead and a nonentity to the Kickapoo Tribe.

At the conclusion of the sentencing portion of the hearing, Randall was immediately taken into custody by federal law enforcement, as he is under two federal indictments for sexual exploitation of a minor, producing and receiving child pornography, enticement for prosecution and aggravated domestic battery

(KLZA)-- During a special meeting of the Falls City Board of Education Wednesday evening, the Board accepted the resignation of Tim Heckenlively as Superintendent of Schools.

In his letter of resignation, Heckenlively said he will retire from District 56 at the end of June, 2025 after serving as superintendent for 15 years.

He said while he closes this chapter of his professional career, he will explore new opportunities in education.

Heckenlively said his time with Falls City Public Schools has been the highlight of his career, noting it was a privilege to collaborate with an exceptional board of education, dedicated educators and support staff and a supported community.

Prior to being named Superintendent, Heckenlively spent 10 years with District 56 as an elementary administrator and Director of Special Education and Federal Programs.

Heckenlively said he is incredibly proud of the accomplishments achieved during his tenure which include expanding partnerships and student opportunities with Southeast Community College. Implementation of the Falls City Public Schools Strategic Plan which focus on raising student achievements, facilities master planning and educator recruitment and retention. Also noted was expansion of Early Childhood Programs, Introduction of the Mental Health Partnership with Community Medical Center; Maintaining a strong financial standing, updates to curriculum and technology, implementation of facility updates and improvements and integrating Falls City Public Schools into a competitive activities conference.

Heckenlively said there has been big shifts in a number of areas during his time at Falls City including a move toward more career and technical opportunities for high school students and the different methods utilized to prepare students for life beyond high school. He said there has also been a shift in corp academics with state standards becoming more rigorous, especially in reading and math which has filtered clear down to the lower elementary grades.

The Board also voted to select the Nebraska Association of School Boards as the consultant to assist in the superintendent search process during the meeting.

(KLZA)-- The Nemaha Natural Resources District Board of Directors approved increasing the maximum cost-share for the Soil and Water Conservation Program from $8,000 to $14,000 and to include a ranking system for approving applications when they met in December.

Board members also approved a bid of $169,648 from Tim Sisco Construction for a repair project for the Upper Big Nemaha 7A project. The other bid from Husker Engineering was in an amount of $251,289.

A motion to rescind a motion from the November meeting concerning the Nitrogen Reduction Act Program Guidelines was approved. NRD Manager Kyle Hauschild explained there may not be enough applications to use all the money available in the program. The limit of 289 acres was set by state guidelines. Hauschild suggested once all applications were received, the Board could determine whether any additional restrictions would be needed.

Under the approved motion, the guidelines approved with a maximum per applicant of either $2,000 or 160 acres was removed.

The Board presented Directors Bill Niedfeldt and Jon Keithley with engraved clocks in recognition of their years of service on the Nemaha NRD Board.

(KNZA)--Brown County is taking steps to hold the county's next tax foreclosure sale.

The Brown County Commission at their December 31st meeting unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the filing of a tax foreclosure petition in Brown County District Court.

The Commission also unanimously approved signing the petition.

County Attorney Kevin Hill, joining the meeting via Zoom, said the title work has been completed and requested approval to file the petition.

Brown County periodically holds tax foreclosure sales to collect unpaid real estate taxes. The property that is eligible for the sale is any real estate that has delinquent taxes for three years.

A date has not been set yet for the tax sale.

In other business, the commission approved an updated wage structure for the Sheriff's Department for 2025 as presented by Sheriff John Merchant and Undersheriff Robbie Parker. It includes a 50 cent cost of living increase approved by the commission and an additional $1.00 per hour for retention raises.

(KNZA)--A late Tuesday night Jackson County traffic stop led to the arrest of two individuals on drug charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says, shortly after 11:00, a Sheriff- deputy conducted a traffic stop on a car near 150th and Q. Roads.

The driver, 24-year-old Jade Mendoza, of Topeka, was arrested for possession of fentanyl, possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and several traffic offenses.

The passenger, 43-year-old Joseph Purvis, of Meriden, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony interference with a law enforcement officer and a Wabaunsee County warrant for failure to appear.

Following their arrests, the pair were booked into the Jackson County Jail

(KLZA)-- Pawnee County Commissioners voted to retain their leadership positions for 2025 when they met Tuesday.

Ron Seitz will continue as Chairman of the Board and Jan Lang will remain in the position of Vice-Chairman.

Larry Bradbury met with the Board and gave his resignation as Veterans Service Officer effective January 31. Commissioners also met with Dale Buman with Veterans Services to discuss advertising to fill the position.

Commissioners discussed a proposal for replacement of the HVAC system for the Pawnee County Courthouse. They have decided to wait until they have more information regarding possible bonds to move forward with the project.

Nebraska Association of County Officials representative Judd Allen Jr. met with the Board to discuss renewal of health insurance for county employees. The Board opted to stay with the same plan they have with United Healthcare.

(KLZA)-- Nebraska Chamber leaders recently welcomed a new chair and 11 new members to its Board of Directors for 2025. Joel Russell, President & CEO of Millard Lumber in Omaha will serve as chair for the 2025 term.

Individuals begin their terms on the board this year will include Amber Holle, Executive Director, of the Falls City Chamber of Commerce.

Holle will serve as the Nebraska Chambers Association Chair.

New board members are nominated by the current board and elected by the broader NE Chamber membership. Board members promote economic growth across the state and establish the association- policies with input from members and 12 councils.

(KAIR)--A new County Clerk has been appointed for Atchison County.

According to Atchison County GOP Chair Derek Franklin, a GOP convention was held Wednesday evening at the Atchison County Courthouse, with Susan Carrigan selected to fill the seat left vacant by the retirement of fellow Republican Michelle Phillips, whose retirement becomes effective January 14.

According to Atchison County's website, the County Clerk's duties are many, including serving as the County Election Officer, with the office handling all voter registrations, while overseeing the filing of all candidates for County offices, School Boards, and Township offices. The Clerk also serves as Secretary to the County Commissioners and is in charge of the records for the county, while all budgets for the schools, fire districts, cemetery districts, drainage, watershed, cities and special districts are filed and processed through the Clerk- office.

(KAIR)--As an Atchison firefighter, injured after responding to a residential fire Tuesday, continues to recover, investigators continue their work to find what sparked the fire at the two-story Laramie Street home that displaced the occupants who had escaped prior to firefighter arrival.

The firefighter, whose name is not made public, was injured after a 35-foot ladder fell on top of him while taking it down in the icy conditions of Tuesday afternoon. Transported to Mosaic Life Care by Atchison County EMS, Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, on Wednesday, said the firefighter was released from the hospital Tuesday night and is recovering from a concussion, and other minor injuries, at home.

As for the cause of the 1026 Laramie Street fire, Weishaaar, in a release, says that remains undetermined despite the efforts of investigators who, on Wednesday, interviewed the occupants of the fire ravaged home following the on-scene investigation that wrapped up Tuesday.

The problem, Weishaar says, is the lack of physical evidence that could be recovered for evaluation due to the extreme nature of the fire that was ultimately extinguished Tuesday, with crews remaining on the scene hours after the fire was reported around 12:35 that afternoon.

Weishaar, in the release, points out that, at the scene of the fire Tuesday, "it was reported...that space heaters were in use in the home in the location where the fire appears to have started." Adding that he doesn't know if that will determined as the cause, Weishaar says the time is right to remind residents of the dangers of improper use of space heaters, which he says must be used in exact accordance with the manufacturer.

The displaced occupants of Tuesday's fire are being assisted by the Atchison Salvation Army.

(KNZA)--Many Kansas communities received a foot or more of snow during the weekend blizzard.

But the snow storm that moved through northeast Kansas Sunday literally trapped one woman inside her home, blocking her doors shut.

The Fox Weather Channel reports that snow drifts - several feet high - piled up against the door of a woman in the Brown County community of Robinson.

The snow drifts were so deep that homeowner Judy Bearce couldn't get out until she was eventually rescued by family members.

Bearce says she was fine and had stocked up on plenty of provisions.

(KNZA)--An early Tuesday evening single-vehicle Jefferson County crash sent a Topeka teenager to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on 82nd Street, about one mile east of Meriden, shortly after 5:00.

According to the KHP report, the 17-year-old was westbound when he lost control of his Toyota 4Runner and overturned in the north ditch.

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

The Patrol says he was buckled up when the crash occurred.

(KLZA)-- A Beatrice man died Monday afternoon in a two-vehicle wreck in Johnson County, Nebraska.

According to a release from Johnson County Attorney Ben Beethe's office, around 4:20 p.m. the Johnson County Sheriff's Office received a call of a tractor-trailer and a pickup being involved in a wreck on Highway 136 at about 610 Avenue, west of Tecumseh.

Emergency responders determined the driver of the pickup, 42-year-old Troy Schwartz of Beatrice, was deceased.

The driver of the tractor-tailer, a 34-year-old man from Florida and his passenger were uninjured.

The Johnson County Sheriff's Office and the Nebraska State Patrol are investigating the incident.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council approved re-submitting a letter of intent to apply for the 2025 Civic and Community Center Financing Fund program grant for a Falls City Outdoor Amphitheater Park to be located in the 1500 block of Stone Street when they met Monday evening.

The grant would be from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development and the application will be for $562 thousand to go toward an estimated project cost of $1.2 million. The grant cannot account for more than fifty percent of the total project cost.

The City applied for this grant funding in 2024 but was not successful.

In other business the Council approved a loan agreement in an amount of up $25,920 with Ryan Schutte, owner of Kawres at 1515 Stone Street. The loan funds will come from Community Development Block Grant Funds the City has received for a Downtown Revitalization Program.

(KNZA)--A rural Shubert, Nebraska man is facing drug and firearm charges following the execution of a search warrant.

The Richardson County Sheriff's Office, in a release, said a search warrant was served Monday at 71792 650 Avenue near Shubert.

During the search, the release says deputies located firearms, suspected methamphetamine and related drug paraphernalia.

36-year-old Max Shafer the 4th was arrested for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony, possession of meth and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Following his arrest, Shafer was booked into the Richardson County Jail.

(KNZA)--A retirement reception will be held Friday morning, January 10th, for longtime Doniphan County Register of Deeds Susan Shuster.

The reception will take place from 10 to 12 in the District Court Courtroom at the Doniphan County Courthouse.

Shuster has served as Register of Deeds since January 1993, and will retire on January 13th.

The public is invited to attend to the reception.

Rhian Ptomey was elected last November to replace Shuster.

(KNZA)-- Several area properties have been nominated for inclusion in both the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

According to the Kansas State Historical Society, the properties include:

Bank of Powhattan, in Brown County

Methodist Episcopal Church, in Oskaloosa, in Jefferson County

John Waggoner Home, in Sabetha, in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Historic Sites Board of Review will consider the nominations when they meet on February 1st.

The Kansas State Historical Society says listing in the registers qualifies the property for certain financial incentives, including grant and tax credit programs. In addition, the Historical Society said the listing provides recognition of the historic importance of the property and assures protective review of projects that might adversely affect the character of the historic property.

(KMZA)--The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office asking the public for information regarding a number of mailboxes that were damaged or stolen this past week.

According to a release, the Sheriff's Office took multiple reports of mailboxes that were damaged or stolen on January 1st along Hopkins Creek Road, Lake Elbo Road and Rockenham Road, in rural St. George.

The Sheriff's Office says information obtained during the investigation suggests that at least two unknown persons in an unknown vehicle were involved.

The total loss exceeds $500.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact Sergeant Young at the Pottawatomie County Sheriff- Office at 785-457-3353, or a leave a tip on their Crime-Stoppers link at ptsheriff.com.

(KLZA)-- Applications for the Nemaha Natural Resource District- Soil & Water Conservation Program are now being accepted at U-S Department of Agriculture county service centers.

Eligible activities through the program include:

Establish cool or warm season grasses on cropland. Establish trees and/or shrubs. Install or renovate terraces, grassed waterways, or underground outlets on cropland. Develop a planned grazing system including cross fencing, livestock tanks, wells and/or pipelines on pastureland. Construct grade stabilization structures with less than 10 feet of drop and no permanent pool.

Landowners may receive up to $14,000 in cost-share funding. Applications will be accepted until April 1st. Priority is given to work that can be completed between July 1 and October 1.

If you are facing soil erosion concerns on your property, the Soil & Water Conservation Program can be a great alternative. Visit your local USDA service center- Natural Resources Conservation Service to learn more and discuss how this program can enhance your property. Visit www.nemahanrd.org/programs/cost-share for more information.

(KAIR)--Winter weather conditions, during a battle with an Atchison residential fire early Tuesday afternoon, sent a firefighter for hospital care "after a 35-foot ladder fell on top of him while taking it down in the icy conditions."

That word from Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, who says the unnamed firefighter was transported from the 1026 Laramie Street location by Atchison County EMS and taken to Mosaic Life Care, in St. Joseph, Missouri, for evaluation of injuries.

Weishaar, in a release, says the call reporting the fire came in around 12:35 Tuesday afternoon; and, while they were enroute, Atchison Police alerted them that "the structure was fully involved in fire," but all occupants had been able to escape the two-story home safely.

Crews, upon arrival, found heavy smoke coming from the second floor, with firefighters able to make their way inside the smoke-filled home, extinguishing the fire where it had started once they arrived on the second floor. However, the fire had already spread to the home's attic, forcing the firefighters back outside to fight the fire defensively from the outside, now having burned through the roof, with Weishaar saying Tuesday's weather conditions made the effort "extremely difficult."

The Atchison Salvation Army is assisting the residents with temporary lodging and other necessities.

Firefighters, nearly 3 1/2 hours after the fire was reported, remained on the scene to make certain the fire was fully extinguished.

Investigators, as of late Tuesday afternoon at the scene, were working to determine the cause of the fire.

(KLZA)-- The Missouri Department of Transportation is urging drivers to continue to avoid traveling through Monday in the heaviest weather impacted areas. The heavy amounts of snow, bitterly cold temperatures and cloud cover will keep MoDOT crews working around the clock to clear the roads the next couple of days.

The northern half of Missouri, especially from Interstate 70 to the north, received 8 inches to over a foot of snow, with some pockets of northwestern Missouri receiving nearly two feet.

Motorists should expect heavy snow on entrance and exit ramps, outer roads, and the non-interstates today. If motorists are driving and get stuck, please stay in the vehicle to avoid the potential of another vehicle sliding into you. Also, you do not want to be outside in these bitterly cold temperatures. The materials used to clear the roads are also less effective in these temperatures.

MoDOT has approximately 1,500 snow trucks operating with crews working 12-hour shifts until roads are in a mostly clear condition. Missouri road conditions are available 24/7 on the Traveler Information Map at www.modot.org on desktop and mobile devices. Drivers can also find road conditions by following MoDOT on Facebook and X or by calling 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636).

Motorists can also dial the Missouri State Highway Patrol- emergency number *55 to reach the nearest troop headquarters.

(MSC News)--Another day of frigid temperatures, as the dig out from winter storm Blair, which dumped snow, and brought blizzard conditions to the local area over the weekend, continues.

Temperatures today are expected to rise only to 15, while the windchill makes it feel as 10 below, with many local schools again closing their doors for the day.

For a complete list of closings and cancelations, see our website, mscnews . net closings.

Local and state crews continue the task of working to clear area roadways of what's been reported as more than one-foot of snow in the Atchison area, with all Kansas highways forced to close Sunday due to that snow, as well as the ice that moved in Saturday. On Monday, Kansas Department of Transportation reported that major state highways in northeast Kansas had reopened, including all interstate highways.

As those efforts of roadway cleanups continue, so do those of local homeowners from one part of the local region to another, with shovels and snowblowers active in clearing pathways, sidewalks, and driveways.

In the City of Atchison, Police were kept busy Saturday with the arrival of the ice, as Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson reports four weather related crashes in the city. However, none resulted in any injuries.

In Jackson County, Sheriff Tim Morse is reporting that his office responded to 13 slide-offs, 4 non-injury crashes, and 3 wrecks that resulted in injuries. They also provided 9 citizen assists as winter storm Blair bared down on Jackson County.

Morse makes note that even after the state officially closed highways Sunday, motorists still continued to attempt to travel in the hazardous conditions, resulting in numerous slide-offs; and, with tow trucks unable to run, Morse says those motorists found themselves stranded with no resources, turning to local motels for shelter.

(MSC News)--Kansas Department of Transportation crews are making progress in reopening state roads across the state. Major state highways in northeast Kansas are open, including all interstate highways.

KDOT has reopened westbound and eastbound I-70 to through traffic in both directions from Salina to the east Geary County line. This was the last section of I-70 that remained closed because of the blizzard conditions that impacted the state on Jan. 4 and 5.

Other state highways continue to reopen across the state of Kansas, including I-135, U.S. 81, U.S. 75, and highways in Reno, Butler and Harvey counties. However, motorists are advised to slow down, use caution and be prepared for changing road conditions as some highways remain icy and snow packed.

“This storm was an extraordinary weather event, delivering record-breaking snowfalls in many areas,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “Our crews were prepared and responded as quickly as possible, but the storm- scale created significant challenges. We appreciate the traveling public- patience and cooperation throughout this event as it allowed crews to make substantial progress overnight. KDOT remains focused on reopening roads, but we encourage travelers to use caution as snow-packed conditions may persist in some areas.”

In addition to clearing roads overnight, KDOT crews worked in cooperation with the Kansas Highway Patrol and local emergency management officials to guide stranded motorists on I-70 in Dickinson County to shelter.

As weather conditions improve across the state, KDOT reminds drivers to maintain a safe distance from crews and equipment working to clear the roads.

Check KDOT's updated traveler information website, kandrive.gov, for updates on highway conditions across Kansas.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Volunteer Fire Department responded to 19 incidents in 2024 including 2 major structure fires with combined loses estimated at $ 240,000. The total loss for 2024 was $ 275,450.

This total includes the 2 structures, 2 false alarms, 2 lift assists, 2 appliances, 2 electrical, 4 vehicles and 5 brush/trash fires.

This appears to be down as in 2022 it was 33 calls.

The Fire Department along with all first responders thank you for your continued support and allowing us room to respond safely to area incident

(KLZA)-- A Neligh Nebraska man was killed Saturday on Interstate 29 at Mound City, Missouri.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports the 33-year-old man was a pedestrian and that the accident occurred in the northbound lane of I-29 about 12:40 p.m.

A semi was parked on the east shoulder of the road when the vehicle started to roll downhill and became a runaway, striking the man before it left the east side of the road.

The unit the semi was pulling struck a light pole before coming to rest on its wheels.

The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene by Holt County Coroner, Gene Bradley.

The Holt County Sheriff's Department and Mound City Police Department also responded to the call.

Per Missouri Highway Patrol policy, the name of the victim was not released.

(MSC News)--State roads start to reopen following severe winter weather

Kansas Department of Transportation crews are making progress in reopening state roads across the state. Major state highways in northeast Kansas are open, including all interstate highways in the Kansas City metro area.

I-70 remains closed in both directions from Hays to the K-177 exit south of Manhattan. State highways in north central Kansas remain closed in Jewell, Republic, Washington, Mitchell, Cloud, Clary, Lincoln, Ottawa, Ellsworth, Saline, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, McPherson, Marion and Chase counties. South central Kansas state highways in Reno, Harvey and Butler counties also remain closed.

“This storm was an extraordinary weather event, delivering record-breaking snowfalls in many areas,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “Our crews were prepared and responded as quickly as possible, but the storm- scale created significant challenges. We appreciate the traveling public- patience and cooperation throughout this event as it allowed crews to make substantial progress overnight. KDOT remains focused on reopening roads, but we encourage travelers to use caution as snow-packed conditions may persist in some areas.”

In addition to clearing roads overnight, KDOT crews worked in cooperation with the Kansas Highway Patrol and local emergency management officials to guide stranded motorists on I-70 in Dickinson County to shelter.

As weather conditions improve across the state, KDOT reminds drivers to maintain a safe distance from crews and equipment working to clear the roads.

Check KDOT- updated traveler information website, kandrive.gov, for updates on highway conditions across Kansas.

(KMZA)--Water rates for customers of the city of Seneca will be going up.

The Seneca City Council, at their January 2nd meeting, approved new water rates as presented by City Administrator Steve Brooks on a 5-1 vote, with Council member Mike Stallbaumer casting the lone dissenting vote.

Brooks said the average residential customer will see a $20 to $30 monthly increase, while customers using the least amount of water will see a $6.50 increase.

He said the rate increase is needed to fund operational costs and capital improvements--including a proposed new water treatment plant.

Water rates have not been increased for sometime, and Brooks said the current rates are not covering costs.

The water rate proposal, as approved by the Council, includes an automatic 3 percent annual base rate increase and abolishment of a special rate that had been established for the Nemaha Valley Community Hospital.

The Council will consider the approval of an ordinance at their next meeting implementing the new water rates, which will take effect in February.

(KNZA)--A suspect has been arrested in a recent Jackson County burglary and theft case.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said deputies arrested 21-year-old Christian Rowe, of Topeka, Thursday evening on burglary and felony theft charges.

The charges involve the theft of a Chevy truck bed from a rural Holton business on Q Road. The theft was reported on November 24th.

Rowe is believed to have allegedly stolen the truck bed from the business and then sold it to a buyer online.

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

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Transportation advises all motorists to avoid non-emergency travel, especially in northeast and north central Kansas, as dangerous blizzard conditions persist.

All state highways in Marshall, Nemaha, Brown, Doniphan, Riley, Pottawatomie, Jackson, Atchison, Wabaunsee, Shawnee, Jefferson, Leavenworth, Wyandotte, Douglas, Johnson, Lyon, Osage, Jewell, Republic, Washington, Mitchell, Cloud, Clay, Lincoln, Ottawa, Ellsworth, Saline, Dickinson, Geary, Morris, McPherson, Marion and Chases counties are closed, including I-70.

Motorists currently traveling in affected areas are advised to adjust travel plans immediately.

“This is a major, statewide winter weather event,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “We appreciate the cooperation of the public in staying off the roads so our crews can focus on reopening routes as quickly and as safely as possible. KDOT is out in force working diligently in these challenging conditions.”

KDOT crews are working to reopen roads, with priority given to major routes. Progress will depend on weather conditions.

If you are currently stranded, call *47 for Kansas Highway Patrol Dispatch and provide your location. KDOT encourages motorists to follow the guidance of emergency personnel and call for assistance to determine the best course of action.

KDOT also advises motorists who must travel to have emergency kits on hand with clothes, blankets, food, water and other supplies.

For updates on highway conditions across Kansas, visit kandrive.gov.

(KLZA)--Due to blowing snow, road crews will wait until early Monday morning to begin clearing county roads in Richardson County.

Blowing snow will drift them back shut now as soon as they are opened.

If you have an emergency, call 911 and the Sheriff's Department will contact the Road Department.

The Richardson County Sheriff's office is advising motorists do not travel today due to the weather.

(MSC News)--Heavy, blowing snow, continued to fall Sunday morning, as a Winter Storm Warning remained in place for the weekend.

Strong wind gusts have brought blizzard like conditions to the local area; and, while city, county, and state crews continued their work to battle the conditions, driving remains dangerous, with authorities continuing residents to avoid any travel, if possible.

In Missouri, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is actively responding to numerous crashes and slide-offs in impacted areas, while MoDOT has approximately 1,500 snow trucks operating with crews working 12-hour shifts until roads are in a mostly clear condition after the snow ends. MoDOT is working with the State Emergency Management Agency, which is actively coordinating response from the State Emergency Operations Center. Gov. Mike Parson- executive order has activated the Missouri National Guard to assist with response efforts. “Drivers need to avoid traveling until conditions improve sometime on Monday,” said MoDOT Chief Safety and Operations Officer Becky Allmeroth. “For the remainder of this weekend, travel should be limited to emergencies only. These difficult conditions will also delay response times for our crews and emergency response partners.”

In Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly, on Saturday, issued a verbal state of disaster emergency proclamation at 3:46 p.m. on Thursday. The declaration allows resources to be used to provide state assistance.

“I encourage all Kansans to be cautious as the winter storm moves through our state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Stay off the roads if possible and be mindful of emergency response personnel working hard to keep our citizens safe.”

The Winter Weather Warning, issued by the National Weather Service, remains in place until 12 midnight Monday morning. The latest forecast from MSC Radio Network Chief Meteorologist Bill Spencer can be heard here.

(MSC News)--Due to safety concerns regarding winter conditions resulting from the ongoing winter storm, Governor Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to be closed on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.

The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 5 and lasts through 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 6. A reassessment of weather conditions will be made on Monday to determine if the declaration will be extended further.

"Due to the potential for hazardous road conditions and dangerously cold temperatures, we are closing state office buildings in Shawnee County on Monday," Governor Laura Kelly said. "Non-essential travel is strongly discouraged. If travel is absolutely necessary, please exercise extreme caution and allow road crews and emergency personnel enough space to perform their duties safely.”

This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in Executive Branch agencies under the Governor- jurisdiction who work in Shawnee County. Appointing authorities in offices located outside Shawnee County have the option to declare Inclement Weather for those counties.

During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather. Remote work is not being required.

For continuously updated road information, go to www.KanDrive.org and click on the Road Condition map. Other construction information, camera views, weather websites and travel details are also available. You can also call 511 - for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

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(KAIR)--An Atchison man, reported as suspicious while sitting in a vehicle parked in a downtown Atchison parking lot, is facing municipal charges for what's legally identified as "unlawful abuse of toxic vapors" and could face criminal charges, pending a review by the Atchison County Attorney's Office.

That's according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson who tells MSC News officers, Wednesday evening shortly after 5:00, responded to the 700 block of Kansas Avenue parking lot where they located 34-year-old William Bartlett who, while sitting in the vehicle, was allegedly inhaling fumes from an aerosol air duster can.

Such substance abuse, commonly known as "huffing," involves inhaling fumes from household substances in search of a euphoric high, with Wilson calling the practice "extremely risky." The act of inhaling such toxic vapors can also be fatal.

According to Wilson, the responding officers "located multiple cans of aerosol duster cans in the vehicle" and arrested Bartlett, with the act of huffing prohibited by both Municipal Ordinance and State Statute.

Currently charged under the City ordinance, Bartlett was issued a notice to appear in Municipal Court, but could face state charges pending the outcome of the County Attorney's review of the case file.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man, reported as suspicious while sitting in a vehicle parked in a downtown Atchison parking lot, is facing municipal charges for what's legally identified as "unlawful abuse of toxic vapors" and could face criminal charges, pending a review by the Atchison County Attorney's Office.

That's according to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson who tells MSC News officers, Wednesday evening shortly after 5:00, responded to the 700 block of Kansas Avenue parking lot where they located 34-year-old William Bartlett who, while sitting in the vehicle, was allegedly inhaling fumes from an aerosol air duster can.

Such substance abuse, commonly known as "huffing," involves inhaling fumes from household substances in search of a euphoric high, with Wilson calling the practice "extremely risky." The act of inhaling such toxic vapors can also be fatal.

According to Wilson, the responding officers "located multiple cans of aerosol duster cans in the vehicle" and arrested Bartlett, with the act of huffing prohibited by both Municipal Ordinance and State Statute.

Currently charged under the City ordinance, Bartlett was issued a notice to appear in Municipal Court, but could face state charges pending the outcome of the County Attorney's review of the case file.

(KNZA)--Two men were arrested following a Jackson County pursuit Monday afternoon.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said around 4:15 that afternoon the Sheriff's Office attempted to stop a 2011 Hyundai Genesis after it allegedly failed to yield to a law enforcement vehicle near U.S. 75 Highway and 126th Road. A pursuit ensued northbound on U.S. 75.

Morse said deputies were able to stop the vehicle just south of 150th Road on Highway 75.

The driver, 31-year-old Ismail Rafie, of Brooklyn, New York, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for fleeing and eluding law enforcement, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia.

The passenger, 27-year-old Amir Bachouche, of Arlington, Texas, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia.

(KAIR)--Expectations of a winter storm, complete with rain, sleet, snow, and blizzard-like conditions, leads the City of Atchison to prepare for the worse.

A release from Atchison City Manager Mark Westhoff, late Friday afternoon, announced that Atchison City Hall, along with other City of Atchison facilities, "due to the forecast and timing of the winter storm this weekend," will have a late start on Monday. Westhoff says that means a 12 noon opening for the City offices, though "essential and emergency staff will continue working through the storm."

Bill Spencer, Chief Meteorologist for the MSC Radio Network, is forecasting local snowfall between 6 to 12 inches; however, due to expected gusty winds of 30 to 45 mph, the snow will be immeasurable as it blows and drifts, causing near blizzard conditions Saturday night into Sunday.

A Winter Storm Warning, issued by the National Weather Service, is in place from 6:00 Saturday evening through 3:00 Monday morning.

To see other closings and cancelations due to the winter storm, go here.

(KTNC)--The City of Falls City wants to remind residents that with the upcoming forecast, of the Street Parking Code for Snow & Ice Control. Park vehicles on the South & West sides of the street, after snow plows have gone by, park on the North and East side of the Street.

The City of Falls City would also like to remind residents it is prohibited to push or place snow into city streets.

(KAIR)--Leavenworth-based Alliance Against Family Violence, which provides domestic violence support to Atchison, is among 20 Kansas organizations named to receive a portion of more than $1.5 million dollars allocated from the federal level.

$56,279 is now earmarked for the Alliance, according to a release from the office of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly.

The funding is allocated through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Family Violence Prevention and Services Act.

A second set of federal funds is also made available through the State Access and Visitation Program, with $95,000 awarded to nine Kansas agencies. That includes nearly $12,000 earmarked for the First Judicial District CASA Association, which includes both Atchison and Leavenworth counties.

According to the release, the FVPSA grant funds enable organizations to deliver a wide range of services, including outreach and education aimed at preventing family violence, emergency shelter for victims and their dependents, support groups, crisis intervention services, advocacy for obtaining protection from abuse orders, court accompaniment, and transportation assistance.

The SAVP grant funds provide, what the release calls, "critical funding to support children and families in need of supervised exchange or visitation services.”

Kelly, in the release, says it's "essential that those impacted by domestic violence have the support and resources needed to heal and rebuild their lives,” adding that the funds "not only provide aid to survivors of domestic violence but also aim to prevent future incidents from occurring.”

(KNZA)--Three individuals were arrested on cocaine possession charges following two separate traffic stops in Jackson County this week.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said 32-year-old Courtney Buettgenbach, of Horton, and her passenger, 48-year-old Tyrone Rose, of Effingham, were arrested late Sunday night after a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a car on Arizona Avenue, near 3rd Street in Holton.

During the stop, deputies seized drug paraphernalia along with a substance believed to be cocaine.

Buettgenbach was booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and traffic charges.

Rose was booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to wear a seat belt.

Morse said 31-year-old Destiny Hibbs, of Holton, was arrested Monday morning after a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle on U.S. 75 Highway near 150 Road.

Hibbs was booked into the Jackson County Jail for possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KNZA)--Two local fire departments are among 24 volunteer fire departments in Kansas that will share in the award of 101 complete sets of new bunker gear, valued at more than $400,000, through the Kansas Volunteer Firefighter Grant program.

According to a release from the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office, Jackson County Rural Fire District #7, based in Whiting, and the Powhattan Fire Department in Brown County are among those benefiting from the grant awards.

The release says the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office was able to make the grant possible through its budget, which was passed by the State Legislature and signed by Governor Laura Kelly.

Each bunker gear set includes a matching coat and pair of pants, a fire helmet, a hood, gloves, and leather boots.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal, along with representatives from the Kansas State Fire Fighters Association and the Kansas State Association of Fire Chiefs, reviewed the grant applications and worked together to award the grants.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission approved an agreement for the purchase new election equipment at their December 23 meeting.

The agreement with Omaha-based Election Systems and Software was approved on a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Bill Pollock casting the dissenting vote.

That came after a motion by Pollock to table a decision for at least 30 days died due to the lack of a second.

The Commission had previously approved the purchase of the equipment in the amount of $67,475, which includes eight ballot scanning devices and two electronic poll books.

In other business, an engineer with the NRCS joined the meeting via Zoom to discuss two dam stabilization projects planned on the Wolf River.

One project is planned three miles south of Hiawatha and the other three miles east of Everest.

The projects, to be funded by the NRCS, are to help with flood control and reduce erosion.

The Commission approved to be a cooperation agent for the projects and to appoint county Emergency Management Director Don Pounds to be the Brown County representative.

(KNZA)--Doniphan County employees have been granted pay increases for 2025.

The Doniphan County Commission approved the pay increases Monday on a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Timothy Collins casting the lone dissenting vote.

Elected officials and department administrators were granted a $1.50 per hour increase, and employees an $1 per hour increase

The pay increases were effective January 1st.

Following a hearing drawing no public comment, the Commission adopted an amendment to the 2024 Doniphan County budget. The kitchen fund budget was amended, increasing expenditures fom $246,000 to $271,000.

Also Sheriff-elect Mark Allen informed Commissioners that when he takes office, January 13, 2025, all officers of the Doniphan County Sheriff- Department will have a standard issued uniform of grey pants and button up black shirts, with the Sheriff- Department emblem.

(MSC News)--The State of Kansas ends December 2024 with total tax collections at $1.1 billion. That is $66.7 million, or 6.3%, above the estimate. Total tax collections are up 8.1% from December 2023.

“As I’ve highlighted before, even though our state- revenues are healthy, we must practice fiscal responsibility,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “That is how we will continue to maintain economic growth and preserve our fiscal stability.”

Individual income tax collections were $451.5 million, $31.5 million or 7.5% above the estimate, and up 13.7% from December 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $275.4 million, $45.4 million or 19.7% above the estimate, and up 16.8% from December 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $285.4 million, $13.6 million or 4.5% below the estimate, and down $17.0 million or 5.6% from December 2023.

(KLZA)-- From his days as a high school teacher and coach through his time as a school administrator and beyond, Jack Moles has always been dedicated to educating and advancing young people.

As a new member of the Peru State College Foundation - a private non-profit organization dedicated to generating, managing, and providing private funds for Nebraska's first college - Moles brings a wealth of knowledge about what young people need to access and achieve a quality, affordable education.

Moles now resides in Lincoln with his wife Shelley. His three-year term on the all-volunteer Peru State College Foundation Board began January 1st.

A native of Nebraska City, Moles graduated from Peru State in 1980 and embarked on his career. His first stop was Bartley, Neb., in Red Willow County in western Nebraska, teaching social studies and coaching volleyball, basketball, and track and field.

After 10 years in that capacity, Moles moved into administration, serving Bartley as principal for two years. He relocated to Amherst as superintendent for the 1995-96 school year before heading back to southeast Nebraska as superintendent of Nemaha Valley Public Schools in Cook.

Moles held that position from 1996 through 2007, when Nemaha Valley merged with the newly-created Johnson County Central Public Schools in Tecumseh. He was named as its first superintendent and stayed in that role for 11 years.

In 2018, Moles was selected as executive director for the Nebraska Rural Community Schools Association, a position he holds today. The group serves 224 schools and an estimated 89,000 students in rural schools across Nebraska, as well as Educational Service Units and the three state colleges in 90 counties and 25 legislative districts across Nebraska.

Moles has always remained engaged with Peru State throughout his career, regularly attending college events and supporting various activities. His years in education give him a strong perspective on the role the Nebraska State Colleges play in educating Nebraskans across the state.

Moles will bring his experience and energy to a volunteer board that supports Peru State through charitable gifts that support student scholarships and campus programs. The Foundation has approximately $23 million in assets.

(KLZA)--A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon for extreme Southeast Nebraska and a large portion of Northeast Kansas.

Snow accumulations of 6 inches or more is possible in some areas making travel difficult.

The storm system could include wind gusts of 20-30 mph, reducing visibility due to blowing snow and possible drifting of roads.

Wind chills of 10 - 25 below are also a possibility across eastern Nebraska.

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Department of Agriculture confirmed another case of bird flu this week.

The latest case was found in a a commercial broiler flock in Johnson County.

This is the state's sixth case detected this year and comes nearly two weeks after two cases were reported in backyard flocks. All but one of the Nebraska cases have been reported this month; the first case of the year was reported in February.

Bird Flu symptoms can include birds that aren’t drinking water, are suffering from in coordination, or lacking energy or appetite; decreased egg production or laying eggs that are soft-shelled or misshapen; or birds with nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, and diarrhea.

Wild birds can also be susceptible to the virus, but Nebraska officials have previously noted that migratory birds can carry the virus without becoming sick at all.

(KLZA)--It was a short final meeting of 2024 for the Richardson County Commissioners on Tuesday.

Appointments were held with Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. who updated the Board on road and bridge maintenance.

Aaron Caskey of Cintas met with Commissioners to present information and pricing on services and supplies Richardson County is currently receiving from UniFirst. The Board will be reviewing the pricing information.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported there are six inmates being held in the Law Enforcement Center at the present time.

Sheriff Hardesty and County Attorney Samantha Scheitel met with Commissioners and Commissioner elect Bob Campbell and Clerk Mary Eickhoff to discuss personnel matters.

(KAIR)--Atchison County taxpayers, who incurred penalties and fees due to what the County calls clerical errors that led to the late mailing and receipt of property tax billings, will be credited for those expenses.

For the full story, go here.

(KNZA)--A longtime Sabetha businessman and community leader is being remembered.

LaVon Wenger died Sunday at the age of 89.

He served a long tenure as President and CEO of Wenger Manufacturing.

Wenger also served a stint as Sabetha mayor from 1983 to 1989.

In addition, he served on the Sabetha Community Hospital Board of Directors from 1991 until his death, serving as President of this board for 22 years.

Services for Wenger will be held Friday morning at 10:00 at the Apostolic Christian Church, in Sabetha.

Among survivors are his wife, Erma, and three children.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff's Office is now handling dispatch services for the Kickapoo Tribal Police Department and Kickapoo Tribal Fire Department.

According to a release from the Kickapoo Tribe, the switch took place at 11:59 pm. on December 31st.

For non-emergency calls, Kickapoo tribal residents can call Brown County dispatch at 785-742-7125. If there is an emergency, you should dial 9-1-1.

Dispatch services had previously been handled by the Horton Police Department.

(KLZA)-- More opportunities for the public to utilize Prichard Auditorium in Falls City will be available beginning Thursday, January 2.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum provided information to the City Council during a meeting earlier this month about some of the activities, including basketball and pickleball that will be available for those wanting to take advantage of the additional hours. The building will be open until 9 p-m.

Those interested in a part-time job at the auditorium may contact City Hall or go by Prichard Auditorium and visit with Parks and Recreation Director Briar Burr.

Nussbaum also reported that progress is being made on revamping the City Safety Committee and bringing on more employees versus administrative and management staff. The goal is to have 9 -13 members on the committee.

Each department has been notified to see if they have personnel that would like to be on the committee.

At the time of the meeting Nussbaum said about 11 employees had indicated they are interested in serving on the safety committee.

(KNZA)--An early Wednesday evening two-vehicle Jackson County crash sent five people to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened shortly after 6:00 at the junction of U.S. 75 Highway and 158th Road, near Mayetta.

According to the KHP report, a SUV driven by 83-year-old Maria Flores, of Eagle Pass, Texas, was westbound on 158th Road when she failed to yield to a southbound van on U.S. 75 driven by 56-year-old Larry Vanvleck, of St. Mary's, and her SUV was struck by the van.

Flores and two passengers in her vehicle, along with Vanvleck and a passenger in his vehicle, were all transported to Topeka's Stormont-Vail Hospital.

The Patrol says one of the passenger's in the Flores vehicle, 57-year-old Maria Gonzalez, of Eagle Pass, Texas, suffered suspected serious injuries. All the other occupants suffered suspected minor injuries.

(KNZA)--A Horton man was arrested following a pursuit in northern Jackson County.

Shortly before 10:00 on the evening of December 27, Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse said a Sheriff's deputy was patrolling on U.S. 75 Highway near 302nd Road when he observed a southbound car allegedly weaving in and out of traffic with a speed of 122 mph in a 65 mph zone.

The deputy turned around and attempted to stop the vehicle, but the vehicle sped away and turned east on 286th Road. The vehicle then turned south on Q.4 Road and turned it lights off where the vehicle disappeared in the fog. Area law enforcement agencies attempted to locate the vehicle.

Morse said the deputy's patrol vehicle was equipped with License Plate Reader technology (LPR) that was able to capture the vehicle and the vehicle's license plate as it passed in the darkness.

Further investigation led to the identification of the driver, 39-year-old Matthew Adams, who was arrested shortly before 12:30 the morning of December 28th in Holton. Deputies impounded Adams’ 2003 Lincoln LS.

Following his arrest, Adams was booked into the Jackson County Jail for fleeing and eluding law enforcement, reckless driving and additional traffic charges. He remains held on a $15,000 bond.