(KLZA)--Two men were injured early Wednesday morning in a wreck involving two semi-trucks on Interstate 29 about five miles south of Mound City.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports the towed unit of the first truck had an equipment failure. The towed  unit impacted an emergency cross over, detached from the semi and skidded off the east side of the road.

The second semi impacted the first semi with the second semi overturning onto its drivers side.  

The 64-year-old driver of the second truck who is from Omaha  was transported by the Holt-Atchison EMS to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with what were described as moderate injuries.  

The 46-year-old operator of the first vehicle from Schulter, Oklahoma, was not injured.  

Both trucks sustained extensive damage. 

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

(KAIR)--Authorities in Doniphan County are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing juvenile.

The Elwood Police Department and the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Office are searching for 15-year-old Lynnaya Bullen. She is described as a Native American female, standing 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair. Her date of birth is February 3rd, 2010.

Officials say Lynnaya was last seen traveling on foot in an eastbound direction. At the time, she was wearing a gray sweatshirt and red-and-black checkered pajama pants.

Anyone who has seen Lynnaya or has information about her whereabouts is urged to contact law enforcement immediately. You can reach Chief Brandon Whetstine with the Elwood Police Department or Undersheriff Brendan Wolvington with the Doniphan County Sheriff’s Office at 785-985-3711.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission during a short special meeting Monday evening adopted a pair of amendments to the 2025 budget. 

The action followed a hearing drawing no public comment.

The amendments to the bond and interest and water funds ensure that total expenditures do not exceed authorized appropriations for the year. 

The budget amendment in the bond and interest fund reflects a net increase in expenditures of more than $283,000 over the adopted budget, while the budget amendment in the water fund reflects a net increase in expenditures of nearly $93,000 over the original adopted budget. 

City Administrator Brad Scott said the need for the budget amendment in the Bond and Interest fund was due to the 2025 water meter replacement project. Two bonds were paid off early to accommodate the new bond payment for the water meters to keep rates from rising. He said the budget amendment in the Water fund was due to unexpected equipment failures in 2025, which needed repaired.

(KAIR)--An effort of expansion begins at Valley Hope of Atchison, with the non-profit treatment center launching the Bridge to Recovery Capital Campaign, a $6.8 million project designed to expand and renovate its campus to meet growing community needs.

Since 1972, Valley Hope of Atchison has, the treatment facility's website says, served as a trusted resource for recovery, helping more than 1,100 patients each year. Today, demand for its nationally recognized care has outpaced available space, prompting plans for significant upgrades.

Phase One of the campaign, totaling more than $5.3 million, will transform a newly acquired building into a Clinical Care Center featuring expanded counseling areas, a healing courtyard, and a connecting bridge to the main campus.

Phase Two, a $1.45 million renovation, will modernize the residential building with improved nursing and detox facilities, a new admissions suite, and a lower-level patient lounge.

Once funds are raised and work completed, the expansion will improve patient comfort, privacy, and safety, while adding indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, dedicated therapy rooms, and space for alumni events — enhancing both patient and staff satisfaction across the campus.

(KNZA)--A race car and trailer stolen from Jackson County in October have been recovered.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said the stolen items were recovered Tuesday near 61st and Berryton Road in Shawnee County.  

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office received a report on October 21 that the trailer and race car had been stolen from where it was being kept in the 9000 Block of 110th Road in rural Mayetta. 

Morse said Jackson County detectives discovered where the stolen items were located and obtained a search warrant for the property.

The Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office assisted with the execution of the search warrant.

Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office at 785-364-2251.

The City of Auburn urges the public to use caution in the area of 923 Central Avenue, which is near the intersection of Highway 75 and Highway 136 due to the excessive damage to the building.

Barriers have been set in place and everyone is to remain behind the caution tape that has been strung.

A structural engineer has been contacted to evaluate the building and develop a plan to stabilize the building.

(KAIR)--A Kansas City, Kansas woman was injured in a single-vehicle crash December 27 in rural Atchison County.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 43-year-old Jennifer Harrison was northbound on U.S. Highway 73, near Rooks Road, when her vehicle left the roadway, went down an embankment, and struck a group of trees.

Harrison, Laurie says, was transported to Mosaic Life Care with possible injuries. 

An investigation into possible driving under the influence was conducted at the scene with Laurie saying that investigation remains ongoing.

(KMZA)--Eight nominees are vying to fill a district magistrate judge vacancy in Pottawatomie County.

The 2nd Judicial District Nominating Commission will meet Friday, January 9th to interview the nominees.  

The vacancy was created when District Magistrate Judge Erich Campbell died September 18.   

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

Among the eight nominees vying for the position are: 

Dan Brenner, of Holton, owner of Diamonds by Design and former Jackson County Commissioner  

Dennis Entrikin, of Hiawatha, who currently serves as Chief of Police of the Horton Police Department  

Mary Theis, of Havensville, who currently serves as deputy Jackson County Clerk.   

Interviews will take place at the Pottawatomie County Courthouse, in Westmoreland, beginning at 9:00 the morning of January 9th, and are open to the public.  

The commission will appoint one of the nominees to fill the district magistrate judge vacancy according to statutory qualification and residency requirements. 

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

(KMZA)--Nemaha County will try a trial micro-surfacing project as a possible alternative to chip and sealing.

The Nemaha County Commission at their December 15 meeting approved a contact with Vance Brothers, of Kansas City, Missouri, for the micro-surfacing of a 5 ½ mile stretch of Old Highway 9.  

Micro-surfacing is cold-mix pavement preservation treatment used to extend the life of existing asphalt roads by 5 to 7 years. Officials say it reduces life-cycle costs by 25  to 45 percent compared to traditional resurfacing methods.  
County officials say any extra material following the process will be used for blade patching.  

A construction start date has not yet been announced for the  project.

(KNZA)--Beginning January 1st, a new quarter-percent sales tax in support of the Holton Community Hospital will go into effect.  

Jackson County voters approved the sales tax during the November 4th general election. 

The sales tax is estimated generate $300,000 to $400,000 annually for the hospital.  

Prior to the election, the Holton Community Hospital was one of five hospitals in Kansas that did not receive any public funding and is not part of a health care system.  

The sales tax will be effect for 10 years.

(KMZA)--The Board of Trustees at Nemaha-Marshall Electric Cooperative has named a new general manager. 

Kim Broxterman will assume the role on April 1st, 2026.  

Broxterman has been the office manager at Nemaha-Marshall for 14 years. 

Nemaha-Marshall Electric, headquartered in Axtell, serves more than 3,500 electric meters in rural Nemaha, Marshall and parts of surrounding counties.  

Nemaha-Marshall was formed in 1938 to provide safe, reliable and affordable electricity to rural customers. 

The Cooperative will hold their annual meeting on February 17 at the Axtell American Legion.

That's according to a release from Governor Laura Kelly announcing the award from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for the first year of the Rural Health Transformation Program. The funding will strengthen rural hospitals and clinics, expand access to care, and improve health outcomes in underserved communities, according to the release.

Kelly says the award reflects the quality of Kansas’ application and the collaboration of state agencies and health leaders. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment will oversee the program, working with rural health stakeholders statewide.

The plan focuses on five priorities, including expanding prevention programs, securing local access to primary care, building a sustainable rural health workforce, enabling value-based care, and improving the use of data and technology.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran also praised the funding in a separate release, with the Kansas Republican noting the state will receive one of the largest allocations in the nation through the program, created through the Reconciliation Bill, which requires no state match and is designed to help struggling rural providers.

The funding is part of a five-year program, with money to be distributed in 2026.

(KAIR)--The fourth resignation from a role of Atchison County leadership in 2025 is accepted by the County Commission as Solid Waste Director Staci Waggle ends her time of employment just prior to the year's end. 

Atchison County Commission Chair Casey Quinn, during the December 23 meeting of the Commission, called for a motion to accept the letter of resignation which, she said, the Commission was given just that morning and simply read, "Dear Commissioners, I resign my position in Atchison County as Solid Waste Director, effective December 26, 2025."

Commissioner James Campbell seconded the motion, then voted in favor to accept with Commissioners Eric Noll and Quinn. 

Immediately following the unanimous acceptance of Waggle's December 26 departure, Quinn called for a motion "to appoint Anthony J. Goodpasture as our new Solid Waste Director effective December 27." The Commission voted unanimously to accept the appointment.  

Waggle is the fourth key-position to resign from the County in 2025. 

Earlier in December, an elected official resigned, with County Treasurer Connie Ellerman citing the Commission's push to cut both staff and budget in her office as the reason for her resignation, effective January 2.

December also saw the resignation of County Finance Director Mark Zeltner, effective January 2, with new career opportunities cited as his reason to depart. 

In October, the Commission accepted the resignation of the County's Human Resources Director, Jodi Moore. 

BPW General Manager Ray Luhring provided information on the options presented by JK Energy Consulting. The study recommended an 18% increase to the base monthly revenue. Options included a single rate increase in 2026 of 18% or a 9% increase for years 2026 and 2027.

The Board unanimously approved moving forward with the 18% increase in the base fee effective January 1, 2026. Board member Rich Wilson was absent from the meeting.

The Board also approved salaries for BPW managers including Electric Manager Kevin Kuhlman, $110,543; Water/Waste Water Manager Alan Slater $94,095 and Accounting and Finance Manager Tamara Westhart $88,000.

The Johnson County Central School Board approved a resolution during their December meeting, authorizing a lease-purchase agreement with D.A. Davidson and Company to acquire, construct and equip facilities for the school district.

The agreement will not exceed $3.1-million.

Money from the districts building fund will be used to pay for the project. The $3.1-million in the lease-purchase agreement would only be utilized if emergencies arise such as additional emergency repairs.

The project is renovations to the Johnson County Central high school facility over a two to three year period.

Final costs will not be known until bids are received.

Renovations at the JCC High School are to include heating and cooling system improvements, a sprinkler system, kitchen equipment and concrete around the building and securing entry ways.

(KAIR)--The search continues for a teenaged girl from Leavenworth who's been missing since August. 

That's according to a release from the organization Kansas Missing & Unsolved, which says 17-year-old Savanna Berman is considered "a missing/endangered runaway who went missing from Leavenworth, Kansas on August 11, 2025." 

Berman is described as having blonde hair and blue eyes, standing at 5-ft-one and weighing 130 pounds, with pierced ears and a nose ring in her left nostril. 

Anyone with information related to the whereabouts of Savanna Berman is asked to call Leavenworth Police, 913-651-2260 or 913-682-5724 or the KBI, 785-296-4017. 

(KNZA)--Two area teens were injured in one-vehicle crash Sunday afternoon at the intersection of U.S. 75 and U.S. 24 Highways in Shawnee County. 

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 18-year-old Cylus Conser, of Valley Falls, was merging onto eastbound U.S. 24 from southbound U.S. 75 when he lost control of his Nissen Xterra and began to fishtail.  

The vehicle exited the roadway, striking a cement bridge pillar.  The vehicle then spun clockwise and struck a second cement bridge pillar.  

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

His passenger, 18-year-old Marysville resident Adrain Gardner, suffered suspected minor injuries but the Patrol report doesn't indicate he was transported for hospitalized treatment.  

The Patrol says Conser was not wearing a seat belt, but Gardner was buckled up when the crash occurred around 4:00 Sunday afternoon.

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A man was arrested Saturday afternoon in Jackson County on drug possession charges and a burglary warrant following a traffic stop near Mayetta.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff’s Deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Chevy S10 pickup truck around 4:00 for an alleged traffic infraction on 150th Road near Q. Road. 

During the course of the traffic stop, Morse said a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted, which resulted in the alleged discovery of an open container and illegal drugs.

The driver of the vehicle, identified as 46-year-old Jay Kroulik, of Cuba, Kansas, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container and driving while suspended.  Kroulik also had an outstanding felony warrant out of Cloud County, for burglary.

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

Zachary Voelker/Credit: Atchison Police

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is accused of physically abusing a baby who, police say, was found to have been "struck multiple times" when they responded to the 1200 block of South 10th Street Saturday morning around 8:00. 

That's according to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, who says officers were called to a disturbance at a residence at that location where they discovered the injured child and arrested 28-year-old Zachary Voelker. 

The child, identified as less than 2-years-old, did not require hospital treatment. 

Voelker was arrested on related charges including aggravated battery and abuse of a child. Additionally, Wilson says it's alleged that Voelker, when arrested, was found to be in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, and he was also arrested on those charges. 

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

The relationship between the child and Voelker isn't immediately made public.

(MSC News) --State economic development grants have been awarded for projects in fifteen rural Kansas communities--including Hiawatha and Seneca.  

The Office of Rural Prosperity at the Kansas Department of Commerce announced Wednesday the awarding of of nearly $338,000 in Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) grants. The grant awards will be matched with more $744,000 in local contributions, bringing the total investment available for the projects to almost $1.1 million.  

The Hiawatha Foundation for Economic Development was awarded a $25,000 grant. The funds will be used to furnish the Natchez Street Cafe with ADA-compliant tables, chairs and booths  

Seneca Downtown Impact, Inc. was awarded a nearly $12,000 grant. The funds will be used to improve downtown gathering spaces with portable picnic tables, as well as adding privacy fencing and improving parking for a daycare facility shared with small businesses. 

The grants are for communities with a population of 5,000 or less, and require a minimum 10 percent match. The projects must be focused on economic development and revitalization efforts through one of four categories: Childcare and Senior Programming, Community Vibrancy, Food Retail or Libraries.

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Topeka man was arrested following a Christmas morning disturbance in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said the Sheriff's Office received a report shortly before 6:00 of a man screaming and banging on the front door of a residence.  Another nearby residence reported the same man entering their home without their authorization.

Morse said deputies responded to the scene at 15698 SE Indian Valley Lane in Hoyt and subsequently took the man into custody.

The man, identified as 31-year-old Michael Bennett, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, criminal use of weapons, criminal carrying of weapons and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

(KNZA)--Two people were seriously injured in head-on crash Thursday afternoon in Jackson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened on K-16 Highway, just west of Holton,  shortly before 4:30.

According to the KHP report, 68-year-old Denise White, of Holton, was eastbound on K-16 when her Subaru Forester crossed the center line and struck a westbound Chevy Equinox driven by 80-year-old Marna McDowell, of Onaga, head-on.

White was transported to the Holton Community Hospital with suspected serious injuries.

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

The Patrol says both drivers, who were alone in their vehicles, were wearing seat belts.  

(KLZA)--Richardson County Commissioners approved the closing of county departments on Friday, December 26, observing the day as a holiday.
The Road Department, Courthouse offices and Sheriff's Department general office will be closed on Friday.

This action follows President Donald Trump giving federal employees Friday off and then Governor Jim Pillen declaring Friday as a holiday for state employees due to the action of the federal government. 

During a brief 45-minute meeting Wednesday morning, Commissioners approved a quote from Travis Jorn to bore an electrical line under certain sidewalks at the Courthouse to allow installation of a new electrical line to the existing lighting fixtures at the Courthouse.  The price approved was $3,500.  

Commissioners also approved a resolution to transfer $200,000 from the Inheritance Tax Fund to the General Fund. 

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison has approved the upgrade of its wastewater flow monitoring system to stay in compliance with state regulations. Under a consent order with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the City is required to measure, record, and report wastewater overflows, also known as bypasses.

Bypasses typically happen during heavy rain, when stormwater mixes with sanitary sewage and overwhelms the collection system. That excess flow can happen at one or more of the City’s seven overflow locations.

City of Atchison Public Works & Utilities Director, Clinton McNemee, during the December 15 meeting of the City Commission, explained to the city leaders that the current flow monitors, installed in 2019, have caused ongoing problems.

An EPA inspection earlier this year reinforced the importance of complying with the consent order, with City staff, after the inspection, researching more reliable monitoring options with stronger service support; and, after reviewing several systems, acceptance of a proposal from Mission Kansas-based Axiom Instrumentation Services, which already works with both the City’s water and wastewater treatment departments, was recommended at a cost of just over $143,000 thousand dollars.

Following McNemee's presentation, Commission discussion was held, with Commissioner Bill Murphy questioning the methodology behind the expenditure.

City Manager Mark Westhoff explained that making the upgrade will look good to KDHE in the big picture. 

Ultimately, the expenditure was approved on a vote of 3 to 2, with Murphy and fellow Commissioner, Mike Slattery, voting against.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has approved changes to the city's sidewalk improvement program.

City Superintendent Brian Rusche appeared before the Council at their December 17th meeting to request that the amount of reimbursements available with the 50/50 cost-share program be increased due to rising costs.

Currently, the maximum amount of reimbursements available is $3,400 per property, and the city has $17,000 in funding set aside for the program.

Following discussion, the Council voted to increase the maximum amount of reimbursements to $4,700 per property, with up to $405 in ADA compliant ramp reimbursements, and to adjust the funding set aside each year for the program to $23,500.

The program is not only for sidewalk improvements but also curb and gutter improvements.

The Council also approved a change to the structure demolition reimbursement program.

Currently, the program allows a maximum reimbursement of $5,000 per person per year. The change will make that per physical address per year.

Its hoped that places less limit on property owners who possess multiple properties and possibly stimulates construction of much needed housing.

In other business, the Council took action on the final two pieces of the new ballfield project.

The Council voted to go with Musco Lighting to provide the lighting for the ballfield, and to not include the bullpens at this time.  That would save more than $59,000 on the total cost of the project

In addition, the Council voted to give City Administrator Steve Brooks authority to proceed with drawing up a contract with AHRS Construction for the project. The contract will be brought back to the Council for review and approval.

Photo--William Bundy/Credit: Brown Co Sheriff's Office  

(KNZA)--A Bellvue, Nebraska man convicted on charges stemming from a Brown County crash in July of last year that left a Horton woman injured will have to serve 30 days in jail as a condition of his probation.  

According to court documents, William Bundy was sentenced last week in Brown County District Court on four counts.  

Bundy is to begin serving his jail time on January 1st.  After serving the jail time, he will be placed on three-years probation.  

Bundy pleaded no contest in September to a felony count of aggravated battery, along with misdemeanor counts of driving under the influence, battery on a law enforcement officer and battery on a healthcare provider.  

The Brown County Sheriff's Office says Bundy was driving a pickup truck on July 2, 2024 that crossed the center line and struck a car in the vicinity of U.S. 73 Highway and 220th Road.  

Bundy and the driver of the car, Heather Block, were transported for hospitalized treatment of injuries.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission decided Monday evening to make no change to the mill levy cap for the library. 

The item was placed on the agenda to gauge whether there was any desire to lower the current cap set by the Commission. 

On hand for the discussion were Morrill Public Library Director Erin Verbick and members of the Library board.  

The library sets its own budget, and the current mill levy cap is 7.5 mills.  

Verbick told Commissioners that can't lower the levy too much or they won't qualify for state aid or grant funding. 

The library budget for 2026 contains a 6.73 mill levy. 

The last time the levy was at at the cap was in 2013.  

Following discussion, the Commission directed City Administrator Brad Scott to proceed with drafting an ordinance for consideration that would prohibit residents from blowing their grass clippings and leaves into city streets.

The Commission also directed Scott to proceed with drafting another ordinance for consideration that would restrict continuous on-street parking to 14 days.

Editors note: the following was submitted by Brown Co Sheriff John Merchant.

I wanted to pass along some thoughts and concerns heading towards the new year.

Many people throughout the county have been targeted by scammers and those who are trying to cheat them out of their hard earned money. I am thankful that only a very small percentage have fallen victim by these unscrupulous individuals. If you are not sure of who you are talking to, hang up immediately! Many residents have really appreciated that we put out informational alerts when our area has been targeted, but unfortunately--a very few think it is a waste of the county's time and energy. I have learned over time, the complainers are few and far between and we will keep doing what is right by the citizens we are sworn to protect. Remember, an educated community is a safer community.

The staff at the Sheriff's Office are all very dedicated to protect and serve the residents of Brown County without reservation and to the very best of their ability. We operate 24/7, 365 days a year rain or shine. Whenever shortages occur in staffing, I never have a complaint from any of my employees who have to work outside their normal hours. I am very fortunate and proud to work with these very loyal and compassionate staff.

We are very blessed to have emergency services throughout the county who are second to none when it comes to responding to any emergency at any hour of the night or day. These folks are volunteers who receive a very small amount of money for their efforts, if any at all and are on call 24/7. Remember these are volunteers with other jobs and responsibilities, but they put everything aside to help those in need.

I have also been approached by many who are very concerned about the division of our country and fear it will affect Brown County. I want to assure you all that we will continue to keep providing fair and impartial law enforcement for years to come and that I am constantly monitoring situations that may affect us in Brown County and dealing with them appropriately. We have such a fantastic partnership with our citizens and I am very thankful that you feel comfortable bringing information to us on a regular basis and trust us completely, which I appreciate more than you know.

I want to thank everyone who has blessed us with cards, treats, prayers, and other acts of kindness. It is appreciated more than you know. I would also like to acknowledge those who have given unselfishly to provide for families in need. It's hard to believe in this day and age we have those who are struggling, but comforting to know there are still people who help without reservation.

In reflection, it is very sad that families and close friends are being divided by difference of political views at an alarming rate. It seems as though individual opinions are not welcome anymore and if you don't agree with someone, hate immediately enters the picture. Civil discussion appears to be a thing of the past. Forgiveness and empathy appears to be taking a back seat. Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

I truly believe that if everyone would be held to the standard of doing their jobs the way they were intended to be done, we would all be much better off.

Please feel free to contact us at the Sheriff's Office with any questions or concerns you may have.

From all of us at the Brown County Sheriff's Office, we wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Sheriff John D Merchant

Brown County Sheriff's Office

709 Utah Street

Hiawatha KS 66434

(785) 742-7125

(KAIR)--Although Atchison County officials say three upcoming roadway improvement projects “demonstrate incredible progress,” the County acknowledges that the work will also bring frustration for residents.

In a release, the County noted that construction will make it difficult at times for citizens to travel to and from work, businesses, and other activities. All three projects are planned for 2026, and officials thanked affected residents for their “patience and understanding” as the County works to improve local infrastructure.

According to the release, the County was awarded a $1 million grant in November of 2023 for a mill and overlay project on Ottawa Road. Since then, the County has planned, bid/awarded, and prepared for the work, while also addressing underlying infrastructure along the roadway. The mill and overlay project is scheduled for the spring of 2026.

The release explains that grant-funded projects come with strict guidelines and timelines. County officials say they hope to complete culvert installation on Ottawa Road by the end of 2026.

The County also pointed out that two Kansas Department of Transportation projects on U.S. Highway 59 will overlap with County schedules and nearby detour routes. Even so, officials say they are excited about the installation of a new bridge along 262nd Road, which they describe as one of the County’s main transportation arteries.

Improvements to Highway 59 near Cummings were also described as “very much appreciated,” and the County apologized for the inconvenience the projects may cause.

Officials say updates will be shared as new information becomes available.

(KAIR)--A tradition of the Christmas season is now in the books for its sixth year, as the Atchison County Sheriff’s Office has wrapped up its annual “Shop with the Sheriff” program, continuing, for another year, a holiday tradition focused on helping local families in need and building trust with local youth.

The program pairs children in need with deputies for a shopping trip, giving them the chance to pick out clothing, shoes, and holiday gifts. A release to the Sheriff's Office social media says, this year, thanks to strong community and donor support, the Sheriff’s Office was able to serve 21 children, noted as an increase from years past. Each family also received holiday meal gift cards from Van Dyke’s Grocery.

Selected families were submitted on behalf of the program by the school district's of Atchison's USD 409 and Atchison County's USD 377.

The goal of the program is to create positive, lasting relationships between youth and law enforcement in Atchison County.

The Sheriff’s Office, in the release, also credited the partnership with Atchison's Walmart, giving "a sincere thank you...for their outstanding support and assistance with this year’s event," saying "their staff did a fantastic job helping ensure the evening ran smoothly."

(KLZA)--Nathan Sietz has been re-elected President of the Auburn City Council for the next year.  The action occurring during the December 10th meeting of the Council. 

During the meeting the Council voted unanimously to approve a resolution transferring ownership of the Sheridan and Sheridan West cemeteries  from the volunteer-run Sheridan Cemetery Association to the City of Auburn.

The cemetery association said increasing maintenance costs, a shortage of workers and financial issues was making it impossible for the group to continue to operate. 

All cemetery property, equipment and finances will transfer to the City of Auburn and be under the Parks and Recreation Department. 

(KNZA)--Two people were injured in a three-vehicle crash in Buchanan County, Missouri Monday afternoon. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says it happened on I-29 in the St. Joseph city limits shortly after 2:30.  

The Patrol reports a Chevy Malibu driven by a 30-year-old St. Joseph man was southbound on I-29 when the car rear-ended an Audi driven by a 22-year-old Stanberry, Missouri woman. After impact, the Chevy crossed the median and struck a northbound BMW driven by a 53-year-old St. Joseph woman and then struck the guardrail. 

The driver of the Chevy was transported by ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with suspected minor injuries. The Patrol says he was not wearing a seat belt when the crash occurred. 

A passenger in the Audi, a 19-year-old Stansberry, Mo woman, was transported by private vehicle to Urgent Care in St. Joseph with suspected minor injuries.  

The Missouri State Highway Patrol no longer releases the names of crash victims

Photo Credit: Sabetha Fire Department

(KNZA)--It was an active Monday for the Sabetha Fire Department, with the department responding to three calls. 
According to a release posted to social media by the department, the first call involved an automatic fire alarm at a residence after food was burned on a stove. Firefighters responded and ventilated the home to clear smoke. No injuries were reported. 

The department’s second call was for a small brush fire north of Sabetha. Crews responded and the fire was quickly brought under control. 

The final call Monday afternoon involved a trash and leaf pile fire within the Sabetha city limits.  

Fire officials remind residents that despite recent snowfall, brush remains dry and can spread quickly, especially when winds increase. Residents planning controlled burns are urged to use caution and closely monitor conditions.

(KMZA)--The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office is investigating the suspicious death of a cow, south of Wheaton.

The Sheriff's Office, in a release, said deputies were called to the area of Wheaton Road and K-16 Highway just after 2:00 Friday afternoon, where a cow was found dead in a field with unusual body parts removed.

The release says investigators determined the injuries do not appear to be accidental and believe the incident occurred recently.

The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone with information to contact Detective Stephen Martinez at 785-457-3353 or leave a tip on their crime-stoppers link at ptsheriff.com      

(KAIR)--Atchison County Treasurer Connie Ellerman "will not miss the politics" but "will miss the citizens of Atchison County." 

Those words from Ellerman come with the announcement of her resignation from the role she's held for nearly one decade. 

Ellerman, in emailed correspondence with MSC News, says her resignation, submitted to the Atchison County Commission last week, is effective January 2, and follows what she says was a demand to cut two members of her staff. 

According to an email obtained by MSC News as sent to the Atchison County Commission December 18, Ellerman stated simply, "I am resigning. My last day is January 2, 2026."

Ellerman, in her statement to MSC News, says she received an email in September, sent on behalf of the three County Commissioners, which "demanded the cutting of two staff members," along with other cuts in County departments. Later, Ellerman says, her office's budget was cut by $85,000 for the 2026 budget year. 

In her correspondence, Ellerman says she "explained to the commission on several occasions that [she is] unable to provide the statutory duties of County Treasurer with only four employees," but "they moved forward with slashing [her] budget," leading to her resignation in hopes, Ellerman says, "this will allow other treasurer employees to maintain their employment with Atchison County.” 

MSC News reached out, through email seeking comment from the Commission, with Commission Chair, Casey Quinn responding on their behalf, saying, "The Board of County Commissioners thank Connie for her service and wish her well in her future endeavors.  We look forward to working with the upcoming appointed treasurer and anticipate this to be a smooth transition with continued service to our constituents."

Ellerman, who's served nearly 14-years of employment with Atchison County, tells MSC News she wishes to thank her constituents for continued support. 

(L-R) Tyler Thomas and Joshua Keadle

(KLZA)--The Nebraska Supreme Court issued a decision Friday which denied the request of Joshua Keadle for a new trial in the 2010 killing of Peru State student Tyler Thomas who was 19 at the time.
The now 44-year-old Keadle is serving a sentence of 71 years to life in prison on a conviction of second-degree murder. 
Friday's Supreme Court ruling rejected an argument that Gage County District Court Judge Rick Schreiner erred when he ruled Keadle's two attorney's provided an effective defense.  The ruling stated that Keadle's arguments were without merit. 
Thomas was from Omaha.  She disappeared on December 3, 2010, after an early-morning visit with Keadle to the boat launch on the Missouri river about two miles north of the Peru State campus.  Her body has never been recovered. 
Keadle was a student at Peru State at the time Thomas disappeared.  By the time he was charged in her death,  Keadle was already in prison on a conviction of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl in Fremont in 2008.
Keadle was convicted in Thomas' death by a jury in Gage County in 2020.
This is the second time the Supreme Court upheld Keadle's murder conviction.
In 2022, the court rejected Keadle's argument the evidence was insufficient to find him guilty of Thomas' death.
Keadle will be eligible for parole in 2054.

David John Remmers & Jennifer Rose Martin/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff

(KNZA)--Two people were arrested following an early-morning traffic stop in Jackson County early last week.

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy stopped a Ford F-150 pickup shortly before 4:30 Monday morning, December 15, on U.S. Highway 75 near 318th Road for an alleged traffic violation.

The driver, 40-old David John Remmers of Salina, was arrested on multiple charges, including possession of a hallucinogenic drug, driving while suspended, tampering with an ignition interlock device, possession of drug paraphernalia, no proof of insurance, and an outstanding warrant for failure to appear out of Washington County.

The passenger, 40-year-old Jennifer Rose Martin of Marysville, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Once in custody, the pair was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KAIR)--The Doniphan County Commission is supporting a new initiative aimed at honoring military veterans and attracting visitors to the area.

Troy City Mayor Michael Brissett and local resident Rachel Peden met with commissioners December 15 to discuss installing a Freedom Rock on the courthouse square in Troy

The Freedom Rock would be a six- to ten-foot granite boulder painted by artist Ray “Bubba” Sorensen the Second, featuring a mural based on stories unique to Doniphan County. Similar rocks are already located in all ninety-nine counties in Iowa, with the goal of placing one in every state.

Brissett, according to the meeting's unofficial minutes, told the Commissioners that the City of Troy has agreed to pay the application fee, but an exact site location must be approved before submitting the application. Fundraising would also be required to cover the cost of the rock, transportation, painting, and long-term maintenance.

Peden, who brought the idea to Brisset, said the project would serve as a visible and lasting tribute to all who have served in the military. Brissett added the nationally recognized Freedom Rock Tour could bring tourism to Doniphan County.

Commissioners voted unanimously to support the initiative and approved placement of the Freedom Rock on the courthouse square, with the exact location to be determined later.

Photo credit: City of Valley Falls/Facebook

(KAIR)--City leaders in Valley Falls are moving forward on a major river and infrastructure project aimed at protecting the community’s water supply and improving safety.

City officials met today with partners from the Kansas Air National Guard and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to continue planning the removal of a concrete pillar from the river channel. The pillar has contributed to silt and debris buildup near the city’s water intake system.

Removing it will help protect the city’s river water source and open the channel for safer boating.

The project is currently working through the required permitting process. Officials are targeting fall or winter of 2026 for the removal, when river levels are at their lowest. The work is expected to take two to three weeks. The Kansas Air National Guard has already committed to supporting the project as part of its 2026 training schedule.

City leaders say the long-term goal is to safeguard Valley Falls’ water resources for future generations. With spring water now flowing in from the city lake and improved river access, officials hope the city will be positioned to avoid future water restrictions.

The river project was first initiated about four years ago and is part of a broader effort to strengthen Valley Falls’ water and sewer infrastructure.

Recent improvements include a sewer rehabilitation project completed north of Highway 16 in 2023. Funding has also been secured for phase two of the sewer project, which will rehabilitate lines south of Highway 16 starting in spring 2026.

The city is also awaiting word on a potential 8.5 million dollar grant that would replace the water main along Oak Street, rebuild the street, add new sidewalks and gutters, improve pedestrian access near the school, and construct a safer crosswalk at Highway 16. The State of Kansas has already committed 1.25 million dollars to cover the required local match, making it the largest grant application in the city’s history.

City officials say these projects represent major steps forward for Valley Falls and reflect a long-term commitment to reliable infrastructure and clean water for the community.

Shaun Justin Barber/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff

(KAIR)--A November report of a vehicle burglary and criminal damage to property in the City of Delia led to a Jackson County Sheriff's investigation and to one arrest last week.  

According to a release from Sheriff Tim Morse, deputies received that report on November 7th; and, the resulting investigation led to a suspect, identified as 41-year-old Shaun Justin Barber of Delia.

Morse, in the release, says investigators developed probable cause to search a Delia residence, located at 203 East Street, where Barber was believed to be staying. Deputies obtained a search warrant and it's alleged that illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia were found inside the home. Barber was not at the residence at the time, and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

On Friday, the release says, the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office located Barber and took him into custody on the Jackson County warrant charging him with criminal damage to property, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

Barber has since been transferred to the Jackson County Jail.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is looking into an officer-involved shooting that happened Thursday afternoon in Leavenworth.

According to the KBI, Leavenworth police requested assistance just after four o’clock. Agents and the Crime Scene Response Team were called in to conduct an independent investigation.

Police say around 3:30 Thursday afternoon, officers responded to several calls reporting an armed man behind a bank at 601 Delaware Street. When officers arrived, they found a man armed with a rifle, wearing a trench coat and a surgical mask.

That man was later identified as 24-year-old Andrew Hutchinson of Leavenworth. Investigators say Hutchinson initially followed commands to get on the ground but then ran through an alley behind the bank.

Multiple officers chased him, and during that pursuit, one officer fired a shot, striking Hutchinson.

The rifle was secured, and officers and emergency crews provided aid before Hutchinson was taken to a hospital. He is listed in stable condition and is expected to recover. No officers were injured.

The KBI says the investigation will focus on the events leading up to the shooting. Officials note the information released so far is preliminary and based on early evidence and statements.

Once the investigation is complete, findings will be sent to the Leavenworth County Attorney to determine whether any charges will be filed. The investigation remains ongoing.

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council approved updated agreements with OPPD  and the Southwest Power Pool when they met Monday evening.

An Interlocal Cooperation agreement with Richardson County for outdoor warning sirens concerning insurance coverage and maintenance was also approved.

Police Chief Jamie Baker updated the Council on a grant through CHI Health dealing with mental health situations.  

A request from Dan Simon for a permit to burn small brush piles on the property at 2600 Fulton Street was denied on a 4-3 vote with Council members Frank and Kenny Killingsworth,  Sara Ruiz and Josh Kaster voting against the request.

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff

(KAIR)--Two Mayetta residents face drug related charges following the execution of a search warrant at a residence near Mayetta.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, says deputies and detectives, on Wednesday, served a search warrant at a residence on R Road, just north of the city of Mayetta. The warrant followed a report of a domestic altercation and criminal damage to a vehicle at the location late Tuesday night.

The release notes the same residence was the scene of a shooting investigation in October of this year.

During Wednesday’s search, deputies took the two men into custody and seized what's alleged to be cocaine and multiple weapons from the home.

22-year-old Cody Smith was arrested on charges of distribution of cocaine, possession of cocaine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

21-year-old Cole Alexander Thompson was arrested on charges including possession of cocaine, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, domestic battery, and criminal damage to property.

Both men were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

According to a release from the Atchison County Sheriff's Office, the caller claims to be with the U.S. Marshals Service and tells the intended target they missed federal jury duty, leading to an outstanding warrant, with payment of a bond required to be done through a national retail chain.

The scammer then texts their target a barcode to load $500 as payment, with the release explaining the code is from a gift card and allows the scammer to steal the money is used.

The release clarifies that "there is no such thing as a cash bond from federal court," adding that those who receive such a call should hang up and notify local authorities.

(KNZA)--A successful exit from "all third-party related interest affiliated with ICE." 

That word was delivered Wednesday by Joseph "Zeke" Rupnick, Chair for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, during an online address to the nation regarding the status of the controversial Department of Homeland Security Contract which led to this month's firing of senior members of Prairie Band LLC's leadership team after the LLC entered into the agreement. 

Moving forward, following what's been called "feelings of anger, confusion, and disappointment" that arose due to acceptance of the contract, Rupnick says the Tribal Council, next month, will work to ensure economic interests don't override the values of the Tribe.

The contract agreement led to a public outcry that resulted in the termination of the LLC's senior members and to the Tribe issuing a statement saying that "as a sovereign Nation, our values guide the decisions we make, and we acknowledge that this contract does not align with those principles."

(KAIR)--Collecting northeast Kansas weather data has gained an enhancement through the addition of a new, locally based monitoring system.

As part of the Kansas Mesonet, a network of automated weather and environmental monitoring stations throughout the state, the new station is put in place in Atchison County.

According to a release from Kansas Mesonet, a project of Kansas State University, the newest site is now in place in Atchison County, 3 miles northwest of Cummings, which is why, the release says, the station is named "Cummings 3 NW."

The release calls the placement "the last install for 2025," but notes there are "a few planned for next year," with that information forthcoming.

The Kansas Mesonet comprises a network of over 90 weather observing sites across the state.

Retiring Jackson Co School Defender Initiative Deputy Joe Romans/Submitted photo

(KAIR)--Special recognition is given to an outgoing Jackson County Sheriff's Deputy who, for seven years, served the office, including in the role of School Defender Initiative Deputy. 

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a reception of commendation for retiring Deputy Joe Romans was held Tuesday, with the Sheriff saying the majority of Romans' time was "concentrated on the hardening and securing of Jackson County Schools," with the release saying Romans "trained students and staff on what actions to take in active shooter situations," having "attended the F.B.I.’s Security Building Assessment Program," which led to him performing "a detailed assessment of each school in Jackson County and studied every aspect of each school’s operation."

Romans, the release says, is also recognized for initiating "the first in the state school emergency bus driver training curriculum," providing "training for school bus drivers for emergency situations that may occur while transporting students."

Emergency radio communications enhancements were made to school facilities to improve emergency communications for first responders in the schools under Romans," while secure security control areas were established in the schools and School Crisis plans updated and modified to include the changes in policies and procedures.

Additionally, Morse says in the release, "Romans helped the Sheriff’s Office acquire an armored vehicle, numerous emergency generators and various other equipment through the federal government."

Romans, during Tuesday's reception, was presented by Morse with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office Life Saving Award for his actions that saved the life of a suspect who was shot by law enforcement in August of 2020. 

Morse, in the release called Romans "one of those employees that it will be nearly impossible to ever replace," saying Romans "has led a life of service and no matter where Joe Romans is, he will be serving.” 

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council approved the one and six-year street improvement program Monday night.  Approval followed a public hearing drawing no comment. 

Included in the one-year plan is a mill and overlay of the existing private road from Highway 73 going east approximately 1,100 feet to Fulton Street at an estimated cost of $264,000.  It is a private pay project.

The existing brick on Stone Street from 19th Street to 21st Street  and 20th Street from Harlan Street to Chase Street and 19th Street from Stone Street to Chase Street will be replaced with a 6-inch concrete street. The cost estimate is $838,000.

Also added to the one-year plan is replacing the gravel portion of 14th Street, approximately 270 feet west to the City limits with a 6-inch concrete road which will be 26-feet wide.  The estimated cost is $166,000.

Also added to the one-year plan is replacing the 25th Street brick road from Harlan Street to  Barada Street  with concrete at a cost of $382,000.  

There are numerous projects on the six-year plan.  The time line for those projects could be changed. 

The total cost of projects planned carry a price tag of $15,213,000 of which the City portion would come to nearly $13.9 million.  

(KAIR)--Nine cats, left behind due to an eviction, are rescued through the efforts of Atchison Animal Control, aided through assistance from the public in finding available resources to rescue, and house, the kitties.

According to a release from Atchison Animal Control, at least 15 cats were owned at the Atchison residence, but only nine could be found as rescuers worked quickly as the eviction contractor was forcing the animals into the cold, December temperatures.

Although the nine were rescued, a roadblock of sorts existed in the fact that the Atchison Animal Control Shelter is equipped only to house dogs, not cats, with the remedy found Sunday through the resources of Kansas City-area based Great Plains SPCA.

According to the release, the rescued cats were transported to the facility's intake building, with all nine now reported to be warm, safe, and fed while receiving needed attention. Additionally, following a checkup by the Great Plains medical team, none of the nine were found to have suffered any serious injuries.

Meanwhile, the animals' previous Atchison home is being monitored for the missing cats, numbering at least six, with the eviction contractor, the release notes, agreeing to notify Animal Control should any of the missing felines return.

Longtime active Falls City community member is being rememberd.
James ( Jim) Wisdom Jr., of Falls City died Saturday, Decmeber 13 at the age of 80. 
Jim Wisdom worked for Southeast Nebraska Communications for 40 years.  He served as a 4th Ward City Council member; he also served as a member of the Falls City Board of Education, and was a member of the Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad.
In addition Jim was a longtime member of Falls City Elk's Lodge 963 servicing several terms as Exalted Ruler and served on the state Elk's Board and as a District Director.

James will be cremated and no service are planned. 

Jim is survived by his wife Angie and five children including longtime KTNC's announcer Aaron Wisdom.  

(KNZA)--Doniphan County will be getting a new multi-use asset--a drone. 

At the request of county Emergency Management Coordinator Scott Morris, the Doniphan County Commission Monday approved the purchase of a drone from Skydio Inc. for a cost of $20,439. 

The drone comes with a night sensor, speaker, spotlight attachments and software.  

Morris told commissioners he will take the certification and training to fly the drone as well as offer training to all city and county law enforcement officers, who will provide the manpower, with the unit to be housed at county law enforcement center to allow 24/7 access.  

Morris said he contacted the county’s liability insurance carrier, KCAMP, and the annual insurance premium will be $1,730.  

County Attorney Charles Baskins, citing many beneficial uses countywide, offered Diversion Fee funds to be used towards purchase.  

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, diversion fee funds will cover more than $12,000 of the cost, with Emergency Management funds covering the remainder.

Pavlo Stasiouk/Credit: www.pavlostasiouk.com

(KAIR)--A visual artist, a folk singer, an iconographer, and philosopher are several skills the new Atchison Art Association's Artist in Residence brings to the City he now calls home.

Molly Porter, Executive Director for the art association says the artist, whose residency was announced publicly just prior to last weekend, has relocated to Atchison, where he will serve in the artist in residency role for the next two years.

Porter says the residency is part of the association's goal of expanding art in the Atchison community, including the support of an art based scholarship and other initiatives.

Stasiouk, the Artist in Residence, will serve in that role for the next two years, working at Atchison's historic Muchnic Gallery.

Picture Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Holton man facing multiple child sex charges has entered into a plea agreement. 

According to court documents, 23-year-old Quo-Jon Tye plead guilty December 11 in Jackson County District Court to two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and an amended charge of attempted aggravated indecent liberties with a child. 

In exchange for the plea, three counts of rape were dismissed. 

Tye was arrested in May following an investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff's Office. 

The alleged crimes involving three different victims under the age of 14 were reported to the Sheriff's Office in November 2024. 

Sentencing was set for February 13, 2026. 

Tye remains in the Jackson County Jail, held on a $200,000 bond.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has set a public hearing for later this month to consider adoption of a new county Neighborhood Revitalization Plan.  
The Commission recently adopted a resolution setting a public hearing for the morning of December 31 at 9:00 in the County Commission room at the Brown County Courthouse.  

The county's current five-year tax rebate plan expires at the end of the year, and the county is proposing a new 10-year plan with a declining rebate schedule.  
The plan is seen as incentive to spur economic development in the county. 

The proposed Neighborhood Revitalization Plan and a description of the boundaries of the proposed Neighborhood Revitalization Area are available for review during regular business hours in the office of the Brown County Clerk.

(KAIR)--The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, following the outcry against the acceptance of a federal Department of Homeland Security contract that led to last week's firing of senior members of Prairie Band LLC's leadership team, is exploring options for terminating the contract. 

That word was delivered in an Address to the Nation by Chairman Joseph "Zeke" Rupnick, as posted to YouTube Friday. "We met with legal counsel immediately," Rupnick said, "and the process [of terminating the contract] is still underway." 

Rupnick, in his address, acknowledged what have been called "feelings of anger, confusion, and disappointment" that arose due to acceptance of the contract, adding that because the tribal public deserves the "truth and full transparency," updates regarding the contract status will be given as they become available. 

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--Two men were arrested on drug possession charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County Thursday afternoon, December 11.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a GMC Yukon around 1:45 on U.S. 75 highway near 142nd Road.

During the traffic stop, a K-9 was deployed.  Morse said the K-9 indicated to the presence of illegal drugs in the vehicle.  During a search of the vehicle, numerous items of drug paraphernalia, methamphetamine, marijuana and open containers were allegedly found.

52-year-old Ronald Robinson, of Lawrence, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

48-year-old Shawn Kilburn, of Topeka, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and for a probation violation.

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

(KAIR)--A golf team is approved to be added at the Atchison County Community High School, in Effingham.

That follows approval granted to the proposal by the Board of Education of USD 377 during their December 10th meeting.

In October, several freshman and sophomore aged boys, students in the school district, brought before the school board a proposal to form a golf team, with additional information presented during Wednesday's meeting, prior to school board approval.

The school leaders, also Wednesday, approved the purchase of new drumline equipment, from Manning Music, for the High School marching band, at a cost of $8,212.

Quotes were received from three companies for the purchase, as the current drumline equipment is more than 20 years old, while the average lifespan is 10 to 12 years.

The marching band program was started back up in the fall of 2023.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the wreck, involving the Subaru Forrester driven by 72-year-old Atchison resident Robert McCourtney, happened shortly before 9:30 Saturday night when McCourtney is alleged to have crashed into two vehicles parked on the east side of 7th Street, a Ford Mustang and a Nissan Sentra, which sent McCourtney's Subaru landing on its top. 

Wilson says the Atchison Fire Department responded, extricating McCourtney from the wreckage of the Subaru, who was then transported by Atchison County EMS to Amberwell Atchison for examination.

According to Wilson, the investigation into the wreck continues with alcohol as a factor. 

Cody Spire (pictured) is appointed as Valley Falls Police Chief/Submitted photo

(KAIR)--A new Chief of Police is named for the City of Valley Falls. 

Confirmation of the promotion of Cody Spire to the position is confirmed in a release from the City of Valley Falls, which notes that "Spire was officially appointed by the City Council following his presentation of a staffing restructure proposal for the Police Department during the Council’s December 3rd meeting."

Spire has served as interim Police Chief since August of this year, with the release saying "his leadership during this period has demonstrated his commitment to strengthening the department, supporting staff, and improving public safety services for the community."

According to the release, Spire, a law enforcement officer since 2014, "has served in several administrative and supervisory capacities throughout his career," with the release noting "his experience, professionalism, and knowledge of the region uniquely position him to lead the Valley Falls Police Department." 

Spire, a resident of the local area, the release explains, "has long been invested in the well-being of the Valley Falls community," and is "actively working to enhance departmental operations to better serve the citizens of Valley Falls," establishing "strong working relationships with surrounding law enforcement agencies and other emergency service organizations, contributing to a coordinated and collaborative approach to public safety."

The City, in the release, invites the public to meet Spire, if they haven't, by stopping by the City Office to introduce themselves," noting that Spire "can regularly be seen patrolling the community and engaging with residents."

Spire's appointment follows the August termination of then police chief Carrie Clark, who, in September, was formally charged with one misdemeanor count of Unlawful Request for Emergency Service Assistance, according to the complaint filed in Jefferson County District Court.

Photo-Robert Motto, Jr/Credit: Nemaha Co Sheriff's Office

(KMZA)--A Wetmore man facing multiple counts of child sex crimes has entered into a plea agreement.

According to court documents, 52-year-old Robert Motto, Jr. pleaded no contest December 10th in Nemaha County District Court to one count each of rape and aggravated indecent solicitation of a child.

The court accepted his plea and found him guilty of the charges.

Motto had originally been charged with seven counts in the case.

Sentencing was set for January 29th.

Motto was arrested in July 2024 by the Kansas Bureau of investigation.

The Nemaha County Sheriff's office began investigating the case in early April 2024 after a child disclosed sexual abuse. Soon after, the Sheriff's office requested the KBI assist investigating the incident and they discovered additional allegations of sex crimes during their investigation.

Motto remains held in the Nemaha County Jail without bond after the court ordered his bond be revoked.

(KAIR)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has started repair work on the U.S. 59 bridge over 262nd Street, located about 4 miles south of Atchison.

For the duration of the project, U.S. 59 over the bridge will be restricted to one lane, and traffic will be controlled by temporary traffic signals. Motorists should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes.

There will be no U.S. 59 access to or from 262nd Street. Additionally, 262nd Street is closed to through traffic during the project, which is expected to be complete in November 2026.

An 11-foot width restriction will also be in place through the work zone.

KDOT says the repair work is part of a multi-bridge repair project that includes the U.S. 59 bridge over Stranger Creek that began in May. Work on the Stranger Creek bridge is anticipated to be complete in May 2026.

Ebert Construction, of Wamego, is the contractor for the $7 million project.

All project work is conditions permitting and subject to change.

(KLZA)--During the December 3 meeting of Richardson County Commissioners, Chad Buhl with the Georgia Poultry Equipment Company and Corey Vandeberg met with the Board regarding the proposed construction of a poultry production facility to be located near Dawson.

Plans for transporting feed and poultry to and from the facility and which routes they would like to use were discussed.  

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. was also in attendance and is to review the requested routes and notify the company representatives and Commissioners of his recommendation. 

In other business the Board discussed with current elected officials the Nebraska Association of County Officials Salary Survey and Study.

The County Board is to adopt a Resoltuion to set the salary of elected officials as per Nebraska Constitution for the new term of office that begins January 7, 2027 and continues through January 8, 2031.

Commissioner Bobby Campbell informed Board members John Caverzagie and Rick Karas that he has been approached by citizens about having the County Board meetings available on a live-stream.  The County I-T person,  Joe Buckminster is to determine if this could be achieved within the Commissioners meeting room due to limited space. 

That word is delivered in a release by Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, who says the discovery was reported shortly before 4:00, with his office joined by Jackson County EMS in responding to the scene. 

According to Morse, the body has been identified as that of a Nebraska woman, but her name is withheld pending notification of her family. 

Foul play, Morse notes, is not expected at this time. 

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha is looking into animal impoundment options. 

Police Chief Mickey Gruber discussed the issue with the Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening.    
Gruber said the Brown County Humane Society was awarded the bid three years ago to provide boarding services for the city, and he recently put it out for bid again but no bids were received by the deadline.  

Gruber said City Administrator Brad Scott reached out to the Humane Society and they presented an option of paying them $1,000 a month for an annual cost of $12,000.  He said that would be a 400 percent increase over the amount budgeted and is not acceptable, so they are looking into other alternatives.    
Over the past three years, Gruber said the city paid around $13,000 for boarding services. 

He said he contacted Horton-based Pawz Grooming and Obedience Training, who expressed an interest in possibly providing the service and planned to reach out to them again this week.  

At the request of commissioners, Scott said he would check with the Humane Society to see if they are willing to adjust their proposed price.  

In other business, the Commission on a 4-1 vote approved a 25-year lease of the old airport 4-bay hanger to Precision Aerial Ag, of Seneca, and authorized the mayor to sign the lease.  Commissioner Brian Shefferd cast the dissenting vote, saying he felt a 25-year lease was too long.  The company will pay the city an annual lease rate of $600.  The company plans to use the hanger facility for chemical storage.

Also, the Commission on a 3-2 vote approved a one year contract with Lucent Health to administer an employee assistance program at a cost of $3,500.  Commissioners Shefferd and Laura Tollefson cast the dissenting votes. 

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)-Two Mayetta residents face drug possession charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County last Saturday afternoon, December 6.  

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop shortly before 3:00 on a pickup truck on 150th Road near U.S.75 Highway.  

The driver, 70-year-old Perkins Whitetail, was arrested for possession of methampehtamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of a depressant and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The passenger, 55-year-old Ella Montoy Mzhickteno, was arrested on the same charges.

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

Later that day, Morse said Sheriff’s Deputies conducted a search warrant at 209 East Clark Street, in Mayetta, Whitetail's residence. During the search, deputies seized items believed to be illegal drug contraband. 

As a result, Whitetail faces additional charges of  possession of methamphetamine, possession of an opioid, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education approved one year contract extensions for the district's administrators when they met Monday evening. 

The contracts for Superintendent Tavis Desormiers, High School Principal Ben Scism, Elementary/Middle School Principal Jessica Koch, Special Education Director Shana Steinlage and High School Assistant Principal Kelly Williams were extended through June 2028. 

In other business, the Board accepted the resignations of Middle School teacher Nikki Honeyman and Gifted Facilitator Karla Kramer, effective at the end of the current school year.   

Superintendent Desormiers thanked outgoing board members John Deters and Jason Kramer for their service on the board.  They were presented with lifetime activity passes for USD 115 events.  Amy Huerter was elected in November to replace Kramer on the board, and Betsy Macke was elected to replace Deters.  Both will take their seats on the board next month.

(KAIR)--A local, rural fire department is holding a Christmas party this weekend, and Santa Claus will be in attendance.

It happens Sunday, from 4 to 7:00, as Atchison Country Rural Fire District #5, Lancaster/Huron, holds a chili/soup supper, along with the Christmas party, at the Lancaster Fire Department, located at 215 West Broadway Street, in Lancaster.

A drawing will be held for bicycles to be given away in four age divisions, ranging from newborn to 13, while every child in attendance will receive a gift. Older children, aged 14 to 18, will be eligible for a $50 gift card drawing. Other chances to win will also be featured.

Children will meet both Santa and Mrs. Claus during Sunday's celebration, with admission being a free will offering.

Proceeds from the supper and Christmas party go toward the purchase of equipment for the fire district.

Organizers are also accepting donations to help support the giveaway and other aspects of the celebration.

(KAIR)--The CodeRed notification system, used by Atchison County to notify residents of matters ranging from burn bans and boil water notices to dangerous storms or other threatening weather, is back online.

On Wednesday, residents signed on to receive notifications were to receive a test message confirming the system was online; however, a release from the County says they are "aware that some residents—particularly AT&T and Apple iPhone users—may not have received...[the] test phone call due to call-screening features on certain devices and carriers." As of Thursday, the matter was being looked into, with the County saying they "will share updates as [they] learn more."

Additionally, the County Wednesday said "automated Weather Alerts are still not available, but are expected to be restored soon."

The outage, first announced November 19 by Atchison County Emergency Management, was due to what the County calls "a targeted cybersecurity incident" against OnSolve, the company behind the CodeRed system, which experienced nationwide problems. 

According to County Emergency Management, "OnSolve has confirmed that contact information from CodeRED user accounts was compromised during the cyberattack, and the compromised data does appear to have been published online; and, while there is no evidence that this information has been misused, residents should take precautions," such as changing their account password.

The County, citing OnSolve, says the most recent data backup available during the migration, following the cybersecuirty attack, was from March 31, of this year, with those who signed up for the CodeRed service after that date asked to "please check to ensure you are still enrolled for notifications."

That word comes from the Kansas Highway Patrol's social media, which explains that while such lights provide perfect decoration for the holiday season at home, they are unlawful when placed on vehicles.

WIBW-TV reports Kansas law regulates how many lights, and specifically which colors, can be on a roadway-approved vehicle, with such decorations proving to be either a distraction to other motorists or causing confusion with emergency vehicles. In worst case scenarios, bad actors could use the season to impersonate law enforcement through the use of such lights.

The law has been in place since 1992, with the TV station reporting that violation of the applicable law is a moving hazards violation, resulting in a ticket of around $75, plus additional court fees.

Lighting for use during parades is not affected by the law.

(KNZA)--Voters in Jefferson West USD 340 will decide the fate of a new bond proposal during a special election in  March. 

The USD 340 Board of Education at their December 1st meeting adopted a resolution to place a $17.5 million bond issue before voters March 3rd to fund facility improvements. 

USD 340 voters last November turned down a $21 million bond issue to fund facility improvements.  
Superintendent Dr. Brad Neuenswander said the new bond proposal comes after months of research, planning, and community events.  He said the bond issue is designed to take care of facility needs within the school district identified through community feedback.   

The bond issue will fund improvements and renovations to all school facilities--including classroom additions at the elementary and middle schools, safety and security improvements, HVAC and electrical upgrades and a new track.  

More information on the bond proposal can be found on the Jeff West USD 340 website.

Photo--Tamera Meyer/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Circleville woman was arrested on drug possession charges after a Jackson County traffic stop Monday evening.  

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy stop conducted a traffic stop on car around 5:30 Monday evening on U.S. 75 highway near Banner Road.  

A Jackson County Sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the odor of illegal drugs coming from the vehicle. Morse said a search of the vehicle resulted in deputies’ locating suspected methamphetamine, Xanax and drug paraphernalia.  

The driver,  50-year-old Tamera Rene Meyer, was arrested for possession of methamphetmine, possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and improper driving.  

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

(KLZA)--The boil water advisory for customers of the city of Humboldt, Nebraska has been lifted.

The advisory was lifted Wednesday.

The city does suggest you flush your water system by running cold water through all of your faucets in your home or business for one minute.
In addition, you should clean automatic ice makers by making and discarding three batches of ice.
Water softeners should have water run through a  regeneration cycle.  

Stephen Oswalt/Credit: Atchison Police

(KAIR)--An Atchison driver, accused of being asleep behind the wheel while in the lane of traffic of Atchison's River Road, is facing drug related charges following his arrest. 

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says 62-year-old Stephen Oswalt was arrested Tuesday afternoon in the 400 block of River Road for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

The arrest came, a release from Wilsons says, around 4:20 when an officer on patrol observed a vehicle stopped in the southbound driving lane in the 400 block of River Road, with Oswalt, in the driver's seat, appearing to the officer to be either sleeping or passed out. 

During the investigation that followed, it's alleged, Wilson says, that Oswalt was found to be in possession of the meth and paraphernalia. 

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

(KAIR)--Contributions from the public are needed to help support what’s become an annual Christmas-season tradition, uniting members of the Atchison County Sheriff's Office with children in need who receive gifts for the holidays.

That's set to again happen through the 6th Annual Shop With a Sheriff program, described by the Sheriff's Office as "an annual community outreach program that supports children and families in need," chosen through recommendations made by the local schools of USD 409 and USD 377.

Donations to the program allow, the Sheriff's Office says, deputies and staff to go shopping locally with the selected children who receive clothing, footwear, books, toys, and food items.

Along with supplying the children with their needs, the program is a way to, according to a Sheriff's Office release, “build long lasting and positive relationships between youth and law enforcement, while celebrating the holidays."

Individual and business donations are being sought to sponsor the effort, with the Sheriff's office saying every dollar donated goes fully to the program.

Photo Credit: Brown Co Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--Donations made to the Brown County Sheriff's Office will help those in need this holiday season. 

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant said the Sheriff's Office was presented Tuesday with an abundance of food, toys, mittens, hats as well as money for gift cards.  

For many years, Merchant says they have been blessed to have had an individual donate to the Sheriff's office with the requirement of giving to those in need.  

Working through local advocates, families in need are suggested and then assisted by the generosity of this anonymous Santa.  Merchant said his only stipulation was that no one was to know where the donations came from, just wanting those who were struggling to have a helping hand, especially during the holidays. 

He passed away several years ago, but Merchant says his angels have since carried on the tradition. 

" Over the years, many families throughout the county have benefitted from the kindness and benevolence of this family.  We are very thankful to have people in our county that deeply care about others throughout the year. The only stipulation is this selfless act is to be passed on to others down the road, when and if families can afford to do so."

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--A Jackson County traffic stop last Friday morning lead to the arrest of a Sabetha couple on drug charges. 

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, in a release, said a Sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a 2009 Hyundai Sonata shortly after 11:00 Friday morning on U.S. 75 highway near 126th Road.  

The driver of the vehicle, identified as 44-year-old D’Angelo Crosby was arrested for possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia. 

The passenger, identified as 68-year-old Debbie Shefferd was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.  

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

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the reported theft of the tan, 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe was made Monday after it was discovered missing from 6567 Cheyenne Road, in Muscotah. 

Along with being tan in color, Laurie describes the missing SUV as having, at the time it was taken, a K-State license plate on the front, a yellow decal on its bumper, and a decal on the back window.

It's believed the vehicle was taken around 3:00 Monday morning. 

Anyone with information related to the theft should contact the Sheriff's Office at 913-367-4323.

(KAIR)--Citing values held as a sovereign nation, senior members of Prairie Band LLC's leadership team,  through a decision made jointly by the LLC and the Tribal Council, are terminated, with a federal contract with the Department of Homeland Security the catalyst for the ouster. 

That word is delivered in a release from the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation which says the Council and LLC "understand the concerns raised about a recently awarded Department of Homeland Security planning contract that involves feasibility studies and technical assessments," adding that "as a sovereign Nation, our values guide the decisions we make, and we acknowledge that this contract does not align with those principles." 

Saying they "take this matter seriously," the release explains that in response, the two entities "have made the decision to terminate senior members of the LLC’s leadership team," adding that "moving forward, we are also taking a closer look at the internal review and approval process for federal contracts."

The release does not clarify the status of the contract, and MSC Radio News has reached out for clarification. 

The release, acknowledging the "feelings of anger, confusion, and disappointment" caused, says that, the Nation takes seriously its "responsibility to ensure all future engagements align clearly with our values and mission.”

(KLZA)--NioCorp Developments conducted a pair of town hall meetings on Friday, December 5,  in Elk Creek, providing updates to area residents on the proposed rate earth minerals mine that is to be constructed in the area. 

Executive Chairman and CEO of NioCorp, Mark Smith said that construction of the mine will start is 2026. Smith said the company if close to finalizing all of the necessary financing and contractors ready to move forward.

The mine will produce Niobium, Scandium and Titanium along with magnetic rare earth elements.
100 percent of the Niobium and Scandium used in the United States is imported with approximately 85% of the needed Titanium imported and nearly 100 percent of the magnetic rare earths. 

Smith said the mine project is needed in the U.S. 

Smith went on to thank the people of Southeast Nebraska for the continued support and patience with the mine project. 

(KLZA)--Richardson County residents are invited to a community discussion by the Richardson County Highway Department regarding the contract dispute between the workers and the County on Thursday evening, December 11, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Prichard Auditorium in Falls City. 

Currently, a trial before the Court of Industrial Relations over the dispute is scheduled on January 8.

The Highway Department workers are represented by the Nebraska Association of Public Employees.  They are asking for citizens to reach out to the Richardson County Commissioners to reach a settlement prior to the hearing and stop what they call the spending of taxayer dollars on needless legal fees.  

According to a document on the Richardson County website,  between February 2022 and  May 2025, the county legal fees associated with five actions filed by the union or a union member has totaled more than $169,000,

Photo--Kyley Gatz/Credit: USD 415

(KNZA)--The next Superintendent of the Hiawatha School District has been selected.

During a special meeting Tuesday evening, the USD 415 Board of Education voted unanimously to hire Kyley Gatz as superintendent for the 2026-27 school year.

Gatz has served as Hiawatha Middle School Principal for the past 7 1/2 years and has 18 years of experience in education.

She  holds two master's degrees from Emporia State University--including Educational Administration and School Counseling.

Gatz and her husband have three children who attend USD 415 schools.

She will replace Lonnie Moser, who is retiring at the end of the current school year after serving as Superintendent since July 2017.

Gatz was among three finalists interviewed by the Board last week. The other two finalists were Robert Reed, who currently serves as Superintendent and PreK-6th grade Principal at Hodgeman County USD 227, and Jennifer Gatz, who currently serves as Superintendent of Riverside USD 114.

(KLZA)--The Pawnee City Board of Education met December 3rd.

The Board voted to approve entering into a contract with PC Little Learners to provide food service.

The board also approved a bid from VanWinkle Masonry for phase 1 tuck pointing.  The work will likely begin during summer break at an estimated cost of $46,800

In addition, the board approved a renewed contract for Superintendent Todd Evans. 

(KAIR)--One of region's largest senior living providers, based in Kansas, has completed what it's calling "the largest acquisition in its nearly 50-year history," with the company adding 15 assisted living communities across the state, including several in the local area.

Topeka-based Midwest Health, in a release, says the acquired facilities, previously operated as Vintage Park, "will now join the Homestead Assisted Living family," with the company calling it a "strategic expansion" that "adds about 600 apartments and more than 315 employees to Midwest Health’s growing network, which now serves about 4,000 seniors daily and employs more than 3,800 team members across six states."

Locally, the change includes facilities in Atchison, Hiawatha, Holton, Tonganoxie and Wamego. 

Midwest Health President, Brett Klausman, in the release, calls the acquisition "a milestone" for the company's Kansas expansion, saying the move means "supporting Kansas seniors and creating jobs for Kansans," by "investing in the future of our state while caring for our neighbors.”

CEO and Midwest Health co-founder, Jim Klausman, in the release, says the company "has always believed that great care starts locally," adding that the services these [acquired] communities provide are essential – especially in rural areas where both access to health care and jobs are needed."

Midwest Health was founded in Topeka in 1977, growing into "a leading senior living provider with more than 100 communities across six Midwestern states," including Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Illinois.

(KAIR)--A tradition of the holiday season returns this week for its 12th year, as Atchison-based MGP Ingredients and local non-profit agencies again team up to distribute food boxes of non-perishable items to Atchison-area families in need.

According to a release, the food distribution, known as the “Boxes of Blessing,” will run while supplies last, Friday, December 12, from 1 until 7 p.m., in the alley south of the Atchison Wholesale Grocery, located at 100 South 3rd Street. Drivers who wish to receive a food box are asked to line up on Main Street.

The project was inspired by a community program developed over two-decades ago at B.C. Williams, a Dallas-based ingredients distributor and producer of custom mixes, bases and concentrates. Initially focused on helping families in Texas and Tennessee, “Boxes of Blessing” was extended to the Atchison area in 2014.

As of last year, the “Boxes of Blessing” program has, since its inception, provided more than 185 tons of food to Atchison families.

Photo--Gary Hermesch/Credit: Nemaha Co Sheriff's Office

(KMZA)--An Okahoma man accused of killing a Seneca priest in April will undergo further evaluation at the state's largest psychiatric facility to determine if he's competent to stand trial.  

During a hearing last Thursday in Nemaha County District Court, a judge directed 66-year-old Gary Hermesch to undergo further evaluation at the Larned State Security Hospital based on a written report filed by Kanza Mental Health.  

The judge in November granted a motion filed by Hermesch's attorney for a competency evaluation.  

Hermesch is charged with first-degree murder in the April 3rd killing of Father Arul Carasala outside the Sts. Peter and Paul Church rectory in Seneca.  

Proceedings in the case have been placed on hold pending the outcome of the mental evaluation.

To hear this complete report, go here.

(KAIR)--The Spirit of Christmas was alive in Atchison Saturday, from cookie sales and cookie crawls, to Santa visits to the evening's lighted parade, the City's holiday spirit was on full display, courtesy of local churches, businesses, organizations, the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce, and others.

The morning began with a winter bazaar in the basement of the Atchison United Methodist Church, where Atchison farmers market vendors, in conjunction with Live Well Atchison County and Executive Director Jeff Schuele, set up early for the holiday celebration.

The church, at the same time, was holding its annual cookie sale, with Pastor Cyd Stein overseeing the morning's events.

Atchison's Memorial Hall, from 11:30 to 4:30, served as the Christmas headquarters, with activities and events held inside, while outside activities included guests walking the downtown Commercial Street corridor, collecting cookies as part of the Chamber's Cookie Crawl fundraiser.

Santa Claus held court in his little house, in the 400 block of Commercial, hearing the Christmas wishes of children, with Saturday concluding with the tradition of the annual lighted parade through the city's downtown that evening.

To hear a detailed version of this story, go here.

(KAIR)--Atchison County voters, in August, will be asked to decide the fate of a sales tax proposed to support Atchison County EMS and Rescue.

The proposal of a one-cent sales tax for the next 10-years, according to Atchison County 3rd District Commissioner Casey Quinn, follows the findings of a community survey showing that 73-percent of residents support the initiative.

Quinn explains that following the crunching of the numbers, the Commission decided the sales tax would be the best way to offset the burden of funding falling on county property owners.

The decision to place the special question on the ballot means voters will decide its fate this coming summer.

Quinn says the Commission welcomes input from the voting public, leading up to the August 4 election, with more information regarding the proposal to be made public in the near future.

Photo-James Winkenwader/Credit: Marshall Co Sheriff's Office

(KMZA)--A Waterville man convicted in the 2024 murder of a Blue Rapids man has learned his fate.  

Marshall County Attorney Brad Lippert said James Winkenwader was sentenced last week in Marshall County District Court to 20 years and five months in prison on an amended charge of second-degree murder, along with charges of aggravated assault and possession of methamphetamine.  

He pleaded no contest in October to the charges in three separate cases.  

In exchange for the plea, a fourth case was dismissed.  

Winkenwader had originally been charged with first-degree murder in the shooting  death of 36-year-old Camoran Shoptese on July 4th, 2024.  

Authorities later discovered his dismembered body at a farm near Waterville.

Photo--Michael West/Credit: Jefferson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--An Ozawkie man will stand trial in the 2023 beating death of his father. 

Following a December 2nd preliminary hearing, a judge found there was sufficient evidence for Michael West to be bound over to Jefferson County District Court on a charge of 1st-degree murder. 

According to court documents, arraignment was set for January 22nd.  

A judge found West competent to stand trial in August following a mental evaluation.

He is accused of attacking his 59-year-old father, Michael J. West,  with a hammer on September 9th, 2023 at the rural Ozawkie home the two men shared.  

The senior West died two days later at a Topeka hospital after he was removed from life support.

Photo credit: Atchison Police

(KAIR)--One driver required hospital care, while the other did not, following a double vehicle crash Saturday evening in Atchison. 

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says it happened around 6:40 that evening, in the 800 block of U.S. Highway 59, when a westbound van on the highway, driven by 53-year-old Atchison resident Jeanie McHaley, was making a left turn into a parking lot. 

As she made the turn, Wilson says McHaley's van was struck in the rear by a westbound SUV, driven by 54-year-old Lawrence Miller, Jr., of Huron, sending the van into a tree, which it struck on the southside of the highway. 

McHaley, Wilson's release says, was treated at the scene by Atchison County EMS, then transported to Atchison Amberwell for further treatment of her injuries. 

Miller was not hurt. 

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation has approved bids for two Marshall Co projects. 

According to a release from KDOT, United Constractors, Inc., of Johnston, Iowa was awarded the contract for a bridge replacement project on K-9 over the Robidoux Creek, about 11 miles east of the K-9/U.S. 77 east junction.  The bid was for nearly $5.6 million.  

In addition, KDOT approved a bid from Hall Brothers Inc., of Marysville for a mill and overlay project on a 16-mile stretch of U.S. 36 Highway in the amount of more than $5.5 million. The project will take place from North 20th Street, in Marysville, to the U.S. 36/K-87 junction.  

Construction start dates haven't been announce yet for either project.   

The bid letting took place November 19th in Topeka.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council Wednesday evening heard a report on the results of the completion of the city lagoon de-sludging project.

City Superintendent Brian Ruske presented the report to the council.

Ruske said the process worked rather well, with an average of 6 inches or less of sludge now in all three cells

He said AMS removed 7 inches of sludge from cell one, 2 inches from cell two and about 12 inches from cell three.

Ruske said he and City Administrator Steve Brooks plan to meet with AMS after the first of the year to discuss a maintenance program.

In other business,  the Council approved the purchase of a 2013 International dump truck for the Public Works Department at a cost of $29,900.  The truck has around 30,000 miles on it.
The Council also approved a resolution to adopt the bylaws for the Seneca Parks and Recreation advisory board being created.

To hear an in-depth version of this story, go here.

(KAIR)--Atchison is set to celebrate the Spirit of Christmas Saturday, complete with the annual evening parade of lights, meaning parking restrictions on Commercial Street taking effect late that afternoon.

Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Jill Thorne, says the family friendly, Christmas events start late Saturday morning, hosted inside Atchison's Memorial Hall.

As the daytime Christmas activities wind down late Saturday afternoon, Thorne says motorists should be aware of the parking restrictions that take effect at 4:00 for several blocks of downtown Commercial Street, in preparation of the evening parade. 

Along with the numerous activities planned for Saturday, leading up to the parade at 5:30, Santa Claus will greet local children in his Santa House, located in the 400 block of Commercial Street.

Once Saturday wraps up, Atchison will again be filled with the sounds of the season the following day as a local church holds it's annual Christmas Choir Concert.

The United Methodist Church will host the concert, again under the direction of Marta Myers, comprised of 51 local community members who will perform "The Sounds of Christmas" during the free, afternoon performance Sunday afternoon. The group has been practicing since October.

Beginning at 3:00, the concert, at the Atchison church located at 5th and Kansas Avenue, will feature an intermission performance by Leavenworth based vocalist, formerly featured on TV's "The Voice," Daysia Reneau.

A reception will follow the Christmas concert, with a free will offering to be collected to benefit the Hunger Task Force.

(KAIR)--Sunday is National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, held each year on December 7 to mark the anniversary of the attack on the United States.

For the 84th anniversary of what Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, in a release, calls "an immense tragedy that claimed the lives of many courageous service members,” flags throughout the state will be flown at half-staff, from sunup to sundown Sunday. ]

Kelly, in the release, says the anniversary "is a time to reflect on this solemn day, pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice, and honor the brave men and women who have fought to defend our country and continue to do so now.”

The anniversary of that day 84-years ago, December 7, 1941, will also be recognized through a ceremony Sunday in Atchison.

Arranged by Atchison Area Navy Veterans, the USS Arizona Remembrance Ceremony will be held at 12 noon at Atchison's Veterans Memorial Park.

The public is invited to the ceremony.

(KAIR)--Just in time for holiday gift giving, tickets for Atchison's annual concert to kickoff July's Amelia Earhart Festival go on sale, and the line-up of major artists now announced. 

That came during a visit Friday morning to the 93.7 FM Morning Petting Zoo by Jacque Pregont, Coordinator for the annual festival held in honor of Earhart, whose childhood was spent in Atchison. 

Headlining the July 17 concert, to again be held at the Atchison Riverfront, is the country music of Blackhawk, followed by that of Lorrie Morgan. “We can’t wait for Music on the Riverfront this year!! We’re excited about BlackHawk! I’ve had so many requests to bring them to the Amelia Earhart Festival! We’ve finally done it!,” Pregont stated. “And Lorrie Morgan has one of those voices that captivate an audience! BlackHawk harmonies and Lorrie Morgan’s voice – what a tremendous night of entertainment to look forward to!”

From Pregont's release announcing the lineup: 

--We are delighted to have BlackHawk headline Friday night’s entertainment! 

With over seven million albums sold, their unique sense of harmony continues to entertain fans and promises another enjoyable night on Atchison’s Riverfront.

Today BlackHawk continues to honor its past as it forges its future, and does it all with a commitment that takes their music – and the harmony – to a whole new level. “When we started,” says BlackHawk co-founder & lead vocalist Henry Paul, “our individual careers as writers and performers gave us somewhat of a more creative sensibility. We were three guys whose goal was to approach country with smart songs and unique harmonies for people who may not automatically like country.” 

“Even though the three of us had a love and appreciation for traditional country music,” says Dave, “we knew we weren’t going to be that. Henry was coming from Southern Rock, Van & I were in Nashville, but were writing country songs with pop sensibilities. What set us apart from the very beginning musically was being true to who we were individually.”

BlackHawk’s 1993 self-titled Arista debut album launched with the smash single “Goodbye Says It All”, followed by the Top 5 hits "Every Once in a While", "I Sure Can Smell the Rain", "Down in Flames" and "That's Just About Right". The album soon certified Double-Platinum, and the band received an ACM nomination as Best New Vocal Group Of The Year.But at the height of the trio’s success in 1999, Van Stephenson was diagnosed with an aggressive form of melanoma. “Van’s contribution to the group was enormous,” Henry says. “He could be a tremendously gifted songwriter and a deeply spiritual guy. We found ourselves at a crossroads as a band, and it would 

have been an easy time for country music to count us out.” Since Van’s death on April 8th, 2001, the band and its fans have raised nearly a quarter of a million dollars for The Van Stephenson Memorial Cancer Fund at Nashville’s Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center.

For the fans, for the music and for the brotherhood of Henry and Dave, harmony remains a powerful force. BlackHawk continues to record new music – including their well-received 2015 Brothers Of The Southland album, a forthcoming Christmas record and an acoustic greatest hits album – and deliver stellar live shows, backed by an all-star band of veteran country and southern rock players.

-- We’re also  thrilled to welcome Lorrie Morgan to the Riverfront Stage, bringing undeniably one of the most eloquently emotive vocalists of modern times to the AE Festival!

Lorrie Morgan was the first woman in her genre to begin her career with three consecutive Platinum albums! "Where I am in my life right now, I'm not afraid to express what I feel," she says. “I'm not afraid to express my views on anything, especially on being a woman and my experiences in this business and in life.”

Morgan is known for her lustrous vocal phrasing and the down-to-earth believability of her torchy performances. On records such as “A Picture of Me Without You" and "I Guess You Had to Be There," the ache is palpable. She is feisty and sassy on "Watch Me," "What Part of No" "Five Minutes" and "I Didn't Know My Own Strength." She has kicked up her stiletto heels in fun on her hits "Except for Monday" and "Go Away." On her epic "Something in Red" she is an honest, struggling everywoman.

She has been a daughter, a bride, a mother, a divorcee, a widow, a single mother, a breadwinner and, ultimately, a survivor. In many ways, Lorrie is a living, breathing country song, and she knows what she sings.

Lorrie Morgan has been around great songs all her life. She is a Nashville native who is the daughter of Country Music Hall of Fame member George Morgan. She made her debut on the Grand Ole Opry stage at age 13, singing "Paper Roses." Her father died suddenly of a heart attack at age 51. She was l6 at the time and just beginning her musical career. Lorrie Morgan began making her own records shortly thereafter and was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry at just 24 years old.

On the outside, Lorrie is very lighthearted. Still, on the inside, she carries a lot of pain. Singing is her therapy, she has said. "My dad used to say, 'You should never take yourself too seriously,' and I got my sense of humor from my dad. I love to have fun. I've reached the age where I feel that I deserve good company around me, people who can make me laugh, who love music and who love to have a good time.”

Friday night activities for the 2026 Festival will be held on the Atchison Riverfront with the music entertainment, children’s activities and more! The Festival will continue on Saturday, July 18 with activities throughout the day culminating with the Aerobatic Show and “Concert in the Sky” Fireworks on the Riverfront.

--Watch for an upcoming announcement on the opener for Friday night!

--Friday Night Music on the Riverfront will be a ticketed event. Gates and concessions will open at 4 pm. The program will begin with the singing of the National Anthem at 7pm. 

Tickets available here. 

Advance tickets are $25 and will be $30 on July 18 at the gate. Advance tickets purchased through January will be mailed on February 1.

Food vendors and concessions are available on the grounds. NO COOLERS ALLOWED!  NO BEVERAGES  CAN BE CARRIED IN!) 

Saturday night will remain free to the public with coolers allowed (no glass containers).

Photo--Kyley Gatz/Credit: USD 415

(KNZA)--Hiawatha USD 415 on Friday announced the final candidate to be interviewed for the postion of Superintendent.

The candidate is current Hiawatha Middle School Principal Kyley Gatz.

Gatz has 18 years of experience in education, having served as a teacher, coach, counselor and most recently as Hiawatha Middle School Principal for the past 7 1/2 years.

A release says her tenure is marked by fostering collaborative cultures, strategic resource management, and a steadfast commitment to doing what is right for students.

Gatz holds two master's degrees from Emporia State University--including Educational Administration and School Counseling.

She and her husband have three children who attend USD 415 schools.

The public is welcome to stop by the High School library Friday afternoon, starting at 3:45, to meet Gatz.

She is to be interviewed by the USD 415 Board of Education during a special meeting Friday evening.

The other two finalists for the superintendent's position are Jennifer Gatz, who currently serves as Superintendent of Riverside USD 114 and Robert Reed, who currently serves as Superintendent and PK-6th grade Principal for Hodgeman County USD 227.

Current Superintendent Lonnie Moser is retiring at the end of the current school year.  

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison's ongoing goal of improving pedestrian access across the city receives a boost in the way of state funding.

Pedestrian improvements for Atchison's Unity Street is among 10 transportation construction projects statewide to share a portion of the $5.9 million awarded through the Kansas Department of Transportation's fall 2025 Cost Share Program.

According to a release from the state, the "investment will leverage nearly $3.3 million in community matching funds, totaling more than $9 million for infrastructure improvements that will enhance safety, support local economies, and improve connectivity across Kansas."

Since its inception in fall 2019, the Cost Share Program, the release says, "has awarded state funding exceeding $163 million to Kansas communities."

(KLZA)--A Falls City woman was killed Wednesday afternoon two-vehicle crash in  Nemaha County, Nebraska.

The Nemaha County Sheriff's Office says the crash was reported shortly before 4:00 near the intersection of Highway 75 and 726 Road, south of Auburn.

In a press release, the Sheriff's Office said 41-year-old Shawna Harkendorff was northbound on Highway 75 when her Lincoln MKC crossed into the southbound lane and collided with a southbound Freightliner semi-truck. 

Harkendorff was pronounced dead at the scene.

The semi driver, from Winkler, Manitoba, was transported to the Nemaha County Hospital in Auburn for treatment of possible injuries.

The Sheriff's Office said both drivers were wearing seat belts. 

(KLZA)--The Falls City Police Department has released details on a November 22nd rollover wreck that left a Falls City man seriously injured. 

Police say 30-year-old Jacob Gill was traveling on Business Parkway when his Ford Falcon left the roadway and went into an east ditch.  The vehicle re-entered the roadway and went into the west ditch, coming to rest upright in a corn field.

Gill was ejected out the driver's window and was located about 20 feet from the vehicle.

Police say the vehicle was equipped with a roll cage and safety harness, but the harness was not in use at the time of the crash.

The report says Gill told investigators he had swerved to miss a deer and that he was traveling about 50 mph in a 35 mph zone.

Gill was transported by helicopter to a trauma center.

Photo--Jennifer Gatz/Credit: USD 415 

(KNZA)--Hiawatha USD 415 on Thursday announced the second of three candidates to be interviewed for the Superintendent position.

The school district, in a release, said Jennifer Gatz has over 25 years of experience in K-12 education.

She currently serves as Superintendent of Riverside USD 114, and previously served as Assistant Superintendent in Prairie Hills USD 113.

Gatz holds an Education Specialist degree and district leadership license from Fort Hays State University.

She had her husband, Taylor, life in rural Fairview and have three children.

The public is welcome to stop by the High School library Thursday afternoon, beginning at 3:45, to meet her.

Gatz will be interviewed by the USD 415 Board of Education during a special meeting Thursday evening.

Robert Reed, who currently serves as Superintendent and PK-6th grade Principal for Hodgeman County USD 227 was interviewed Wednesday evening by the board.

Current Superintendent Lonnie Moser is retiring at the end of the current school year 

(KLZA)--The Falls City Council met Monday evening.

The council unanimously voted to reconsider a resolution regarding non-union wage scales and benefits for fiscal year 2026. 27 and 28 passed at the November 19th special meeting then the council voted 6-2 to adopt the revised non-union wage resolution presented on December 1st 

The council voted unanimously to execute and agreement with SEL Engineering Services, Inc totaling $174,6000 for items 4, 5, and 6 of the Power Plant SCADA controls Upgrade Project as recommended by the Board of Public Works (BPW).

The council also voted unanimously the purchase of a remote methane leak detector as requested by the Natural Gas Department, the purchase of a 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD with Stahl Utility Bed as recommended by the BPW and approved a Memorandum on Understanding with Falls City Special Olympics for utilization of Prichard Auditorium.

(KMZA)--The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office says a water tower in rural Olsburg was damaged by gunfire,  and are seeking public information on the incident.

According a release, the Sheriff's Office responded to the area of Swede and Shannon Creek Roads Wednesday morning for a report of damage to a Rural Water District #2 water tower.

The Sheriff's Office says the water tower had suffered damage from numerous bullet impacts.

Following an examination of the damage and the surrounding area, the release says the damage does not appear to be recent, and it also appears to be intentional.

Its believed the damage occurred between August 15 and November 25.

The Rural Water District says damage may exceed more than $100,000.

The damage does not appear currently to be impacting water usage in the district.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Kidd at the Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office at 785-457-3353 or leave a tip on their crime-stoppers link at ptsheriff.com, reference Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office case number 2025-7145.

Photo--Robert Reed/Credit: USD 415

(KNZA)--Hiawatha USD 415 on Wednesday announced  the first of three candidates vying to be the next superintendent.

The school district, in a  release, announced he is Robert Reed, who currently serves as Superintendent and PK-6th grade Principal for Hodgeman County USD 227.

The release says Reed has 27 years of experience in K-12 education, serving as superintendent, assistant superintendent, principal and teacher across rural and urban districts.

Reed grew up in Wichita and graduated from Newman University.  He received his masters from Baker University and his district level license from Fort Hays State University.  

Reed and his wife of 29 years, Robin, have 4 children.

The public was welcome to stop by the High School library Wednesday afternoon  to meet Reed.

He was to be interviewed by the USD 415 Board of Education during a special meeting  Wednesday evening.

The other two finalists will be be announced Thursday and Friday mornings. 

Current Superintendent Lonnie Moser is retiring at the end of the current school year 
  

Photo-Paul Surber/Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff's Office

(KAIR)--An Atchison man, driving through the city early Tuesday morning, earns an arrest through the alleged possession of methamphetamine.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, says 55-year-old Paul Surber's vehicle was stopped that morning, around 2:40, in the 600 block of Kansas Avenue.

The traffic stop, conducted by an officer on patrol, led to the discovery of what Wilson's release alleges was methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in Surber's possession.

He was arrested on related charges then booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KAIR)--The Doniphan County Community Foundation's "Give Where You Live" Match Day will be held this Friday through Sunday, December 5-7 , with Doniphan County nonprofits set to again benefit from the annual fundraiser.

According to a release from Board Member Esther Gormley, a number of Doniphan County locations will be accepting in-person donations during the event.

The Match Money, projected to be capped at $3,000 per fund, will be distributed using a prorated formula of total Match Money available and total donations given to all the funds during the event, according to the Give Where You Live website.

The release says that last year, $199,000 was raised for Doniphan County nonprofits, calling that proof "that when your community comes together, amazing things happen."

Early giving begins Thursday evening, December 4, during the Chamber Christmas Mixer from 5 to 8:00  at Glacial Hills Venues, in Wathena.

The next day, December 5, is Give Friday at the Elwood, Wathena, Troy, and Highland city halls, during their regular business hours, as well as the Troy Community Center from 7 am to 2 pm, including breakfast or lunch.

Donations will also be accepted online, or through the mail.

For more details, including a full list of participating non profits, visit give where you live day dot com.

(KAIR)--A new, Municipal Court Judge is named for the City of Atchison. 

That happened during Monday's meeting of the Atchison City Commission, when Atchison attorney, Andrew Werring, was appointed to the role. 

According to a release from City Manager Mark Westhoff, the vote, by the Commission, was unanimous. 

The release gives thanks to outgoing Municipal Court Judge Patrick Henderson who left the position after being appointed to serve as District Court Judge for the Kansas 1st Judicial District, including Atchison and Leavenworth counties.

The release notes that the Atchison City Commission "was pleased with the qualifications and experience of all candidates for the Municipal Judgeship and wishes the other candidates well in their future endeavors."

(KLZA)-- The City of Falls City has announced a formal partnership with Nebraska Rural Generation (NRG) to advance exploration efforts toward the potential development of a new power generation facility utilizing emerging technologies. The project, still in the early exploration phase, would not involve wind, solar, or coal technologies. The plant’s size, total investment, and final site location within Falls City’s electrical jurisdiction remain to be determined. 

This partnership represents a major step forward in Falls City’s long-term energy strategy, including expanded participation in regional markets through the Southwest Power Pool (SPP). This project will create significant new revenue streams for Falls City in both power generation sales and transmission income within the SPP footprint that stretches from North Dakota to Texas. 

Under the structure being evaluated, the City of Falls City would own the power plant with underlying land locally owned. The partnership also includes analysis of how private equity investment is deployed within Nebraska’s public power framework. 

On November 20th, the Falls City Board of Public Works (BPW) unanimously recommended the city pursue a Development Agreement with NRG. This agreement would guarantee that all exploration expenses incurred by the City during the evaluation phases are reimbursed by Nebraska Rural Generation. 

On December 1st , the City Council unanimously approved the BPW recommendation and passed a resolution authorizing a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) with NRG. The CBA outlines a set of measurable commitments ensuring that any future development, construction, or operation of a power generation or industrial facility delivers meaningful long-term benefits to Falls City and Richardson County.

The City of Falls City and Nebraska Rural Generation will now proceed with detailed feasibility studies, engineering reviews, legal and regulatory assessments, and continued community engagement as they evaluate advancing the project to development.

(KAIR)--Now that cold weather has arrived, and Atchison's homeless population faces the approaching winter months, the Salvation Army of Atchison County has arranged a warmup station at the agency's downtown Atchison office.

That word was delivered by Salvation Army of Atchison County Coordinator Kim Bottorff during a recent visit to 93.7 FM's Co-Host Monday, saying that she's observed a growth in local homelessness.

That uptick, Bottorff says, is why a homeless station is now in place at 926 Commercial Street, in downtown Atchison, offering a warmup and something hot to eat or drink.

Providing such services means the Salvation Army of Atchison County is always in need of support and funds, as seen through the annual Angel Tree support for those in need, as well as the underway Red Kettle campaign, starting in Atchison County prior to the national kickoff on Thanksgiving Day, with singer Post Malone serving as this year's national spokesman, as heard performing during Thanksgiving's matchup between the Cowboys and the Chiefs.

The Red Kettle Campaign runs through Christmas Eve.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Commerce has awarded $100,000 to support 20 new tourism marketing projects across Kansas--including a local northeast Kansas project. 

The grant awards were announced Monday.  

Locally, the Seneca Area Chamber and Downtown Impact was awarded a nearly $2,700 grant to create a new Trek Northeast Kansas passport app.

Nemaha, Jackson, Doniphan and Brown Counties are partnering to create the new app, which will offer theme tours that encourage deeper regional exploration.  

The Department of Commerce, in a release, said the projects will help communities elevate their advertising efforts and inspire new visitors to explore the Sunflower state.  

In total, the 20 grant recipients will invest more than $177,000 in matching funds.  

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said last year tourism contributed $8.2 billion in visitor spending to the state’s economy.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph, Missouri man was injured Monday evening in a weather-related crash  on I-229 about 3 miles north of St. Joseph. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the 58-year-old man was southbound on I-229 when his Dodge pickup skidded on the ice covered roadway, went off the east side of the road, and overturned around 7:45.  

The man, who was wearing a seat belt, was transported to Mosaic Life Care, in St.. Joseph with suspected moderate injuries. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol does not release the names of crash victims.

(KMZA)--A Monday afternoon one-vehicle Nemaha County crash sent an Onaga man to the hospital.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says it happened in the 600 block of W Road, about a quarter mile south of X Road, shortly after 2:45.

According to the KHP report, 31-year-old Anthony Goforth was southbound on W Road when he lost control of his Ford Escape and entered the east ditch. His vehicle struck a concrete bridge portion before coming to rest.

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

The Patrol says he was wearing a seat belt.

(KLZA)-- During the November meeting of the Auburn Board of Public Works meeting General Manager Ray Luhring reported the books on the 2019 FEMA projects have been closed with the reception of a check in an amount of $132,741.

Luhring also noted that the Longs Creek Water Project is moving forward.

An audit proposal from Julie Bauman CPA in Falls City was approved. The BPW Board opted for a one-year contract with the Bauman firm in an amount of $21,250.

Water / Waste Water Manager Alan Slater entered the BPW water system in the 2025 Best Tasting Water contest at the AWWA conference with Auburn's water placing first in the state.

Luhring also reported the Auburn Board of Public Works was presented with the 2025 Business of the Year Award during the annual 2025 Auburn Cahmber Banquet.

The first happened around 9:50, at 18th and Main Street, where Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says a Dodge Ram, driven by 63-year-old Richard Dyer, of Atchison, had been northbound on 10th Street when it struck the rear of a northbound Ford Focus, driven by 37-year-old Jessica Stecker, of Atchison. 

Atchison County EMS was called to the scene where, Wilson says, they examined both drivers, but no one was transported for hospital care.

According to Wilson, Dyer was cited for following too close, while Stecker was cited for no insurance. 

The second wreck, this one at 2:15 Sunday afternoon, happened at K-7 Highway and Royal Road where, Wilson says, a Ford Escape, driven northbound on the highway by 18-year-old Atchison resident Abrie Handke struck the rear of a Chevrolet Equinox in front of her, and driven by 32-year-old Kiley Surritt, of Atchison. 

Atchison County EMS was on the scene, determining no one was injured. 

Handke, Wilson says, was cited for following too close. 

Photo--Zayden Walker/Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff's Office

(KAIR)--An Atchison teen is accused of threatening another teen with a knife,  leading to his weekend arrest.   

According to Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 18-year-old Zayden Walker was arrested Saturday night, in the 900 block of Kansas Avenue, taken into custody for criminal restraint, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and consumption of alcohol by an underage person.  
The arrest, Wilson explains in a release, followed police being called, at 9:15 Saturday night, to a disturbance in the 900 block of Kansas Avenue.  They learned, Wilson says, that Walker and the victim, another 18-year-old Atchison man, were known to each other, with Walker accused of using a knife to threaten the other teen.

The victim suffered a cut to the arm, but refused medical treatment at the scene.   
Walker, following his arrest, was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has unanimously adopted a zoning regulation that prohibits the development of commercial solar energy projects in the county, unless they meet certain criteria.

The Commission took the action at their November 26th meeting.  

The county Planning Commission had recommended adoption of the zoning regulation following a public hearing in October. 

The zoning regulation would prohibit solar energy projects unless they are less than 12 acres in size and separated by at least 15 miles from any other such project. 

Projects meeting those criteria may be approved as conditional uses by the County Commission following Planning Commission recommendation.  

The resolution will take effect upon publication in the official county newspaper.  

Earlier in the meeting, County resident Laura Fortmeyer met with the commission to voice her concerns about the proposed solar energy zoning regulation, saying she believes its too restrictive.  

County Commissioner Richard Tesoriero told Fortmeyer the commission is not against solar projects, but wants to make sure there are guidelines that have to be followed. 

Earlier this year, the County Commission adopted a zoning regulation that would prohibit the development of commercial wind energy projects in the county.

(KNZA)--Holton Family Health Center, part of Community HealthCare System, has once again earned national recognition from OSHA’s Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). 

According to a release, the achievement contributes to CHCS’s 22nd consecutive year of SHARP certification and highlights Holton’s exceptional commitment to workplace safety.

Holton Family Health Center is one of only a small number of primary care clinics nationwide to meet SHARP’s rigorous standards. The program honors organizations that proactively protect employees through strong, effective safety and health management systems.

“This achievement reflects our Holton team’s dedication to keeping each other—and our patients—safe every single day,” said CEO John Fitzthum. “The Holton Family Health Center staff continuously demonstrates what it means to prioritize safety. Their commitment is remarkable.”

National data from the American Hospital Association and Press Ganey show that facilities with a strong culture of safety experience improved outcomes for both patients and staff. When employees feel supported, informed, and empowered, patient care and overall experience measurably improve.

“SHARP pushes us to look ahead, anticipate risks, and elevate our safety practices,” said Michael Bomberger, Director of Business Development and Special Projects.  “For the Holton team, safety isn’t just a policy, it's practice—it’s part of their daily culture."

CHCS’s SHARP-certified locations include Holton Family Health Center; Centralia, Onaga, Frankfort, St. Marys, and Westmoreland clinics; Onaga Community Hospital; Eastridge Skilled Nursing Facility; Community HomeHealth; Redbud Plaza Assisted Living; and St. Marys Manor.