That's due to the National Weather Service issuing a Winter Weather Advisory for portions of northeast Kansas and north central to northwest Missouri.

The advisory begins at 3:00 Sunday afternoon and continues through 9:00 Monday morning. 

Forecasters say mixed precipitation is expected, with snow accumulations up to one inch and ice accumulations up to one tenth of an inch.

The National Weather Service says to plan for slippery road conditions, and warns the hazardous weather could impact the Monday morning commute.

"My concern would be Sunday night, Monday morning," MSC Radio Network Chief Meteorologist Bill Spencer told MSC News. "If you're gonna have a debacle on your hands on the roadways, it's gonna be Sunday night." 

Authorities advise motorists who must travel to slow down and use caution, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads.

For the latest road conditions in Kansas, call 511. In Missouri, visit traveler.modot.org.

(KMZA)--A Holton woman has been sentenced in a Nemaha County elder abuse case.

According to court documents, Jennifer Taliaferro was sentenced Thursday in Nemaha County District Court to one year of probation with certain conditions on a felony charge of mistreatment of a dependent adult.

She pleaded no contest to the charge January 29th. In exchange, seven additional counts were dismissed.  

Taliaferro was originally charged last July following an investigation by the Sabetha Police Department.

Authorities say she was accused of stealing prescription medications from four residents at a Sabetha nursing home where she was employed on May 26. The criminal complaint alleged the theft deprived the residents of the use or benefit of their medications.

Jeremy Stover/Credit: Brown Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--The Kansas Court of Appeals has upheld the sentence of a Hiawatha man convicted of multiple sex crimes.
In a unanimous decision issued Friday, Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill said the court affirmed the six-year jail sentence of 51-year-old Jeremy Stover.
Stover was convicted of multiple counts of sexual battery and buying sexual relations. As part of his sentence, he must serve two years in jail before being eligible for probation.
In upholding the sentence, the Court of Appeals referenced arguments made by the State of Kansas that Stover deserved a lengthy jail term because his crimes targeted vulnerable women, many of whom had sought employment or other assistance from him.
Hill represented the State of Kansas during the appeal, as well as in the original District Court prosecution and sentencing.

(MSC Radio)--In like a lion, out like a lamb, as the old saying goes regarding the month of March, could prove true due to the return of winter weather this weekend. 

MSC Radio Network Chief Meteorologist Bill Spencer, during Friday morning's "Weather Talk," said motorists should be forewarned about expected difficult travel Sunday night/early Monday, after the winter weather moves in. "My concern would be Sunday night, Monday morning. Why? Because Sunday night, you're gonna be down to 23, and all this stuff, rain, snow, mix, whatever the case may be, is gonna freeze up. And it'll get about a quarter to maybe a half an inch of snow with rain, and it's gonna be 23. If you're gonna have a debacle on your hands on the roadways, it's gonna be Sunday night." 

Spencer says after a windy Saturday in the 60's, Sunday morning will bring very light snow, under a quarter of an inch, which could affect bridges and overpasses, with the temp then rising above freezing, with a rain/snow mix developing that could affect the late Sunday night, early Monday morning travel. 

(KAIR)--A dog is safe and reunited with its owner after being rescued earlier this week from the water near the confluence of Stranger Creek and the Kansas River.

In a social media post, the Leavenworth-based Riverview Rescue Animal Shelter said the dog was reported in the water by people out for a walk who heard him whining and called 9-1-1.

Riverview Rescue credited the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office with responding and quickly calling for additional help. The post also thanked Leavenworth County Fire District Number Two for assisting, and the Northwest Consolidated Fire District, which Riverview Rescue said responded with a boat to help with the rescue.

According to a statement from Leavenworth County Fire District #2, they were notified about the dog needing rescue around 4:30 Wednesday afternoon, responding to assist the County Sheriff's Office. The statement gives credit to those involved with the successful rescue, including the animal shelter and the support provided from the water by Northwest Consolidated.

The shelter also responded, making sure the dog, believed to have been in the water for a couple of hours, had a safe place to recover.

Following a three-day trial in Leavenworth County District Court, Megan Forbes was found guilty as charged of involuntary manslaughter and aggravated endangering a child. The trial ended Wednesday, February 25th, 2026, and the charges stem from a grand jury indictment.

According to a news release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, firefighters were dispatched to Forbes’ home the morning of October 16th for a first-aid assist involving an infant. The release says firefighters and paramedics attempted life-saving measures before EMS transported the child to a Leavenworth hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Leavenworth police also responded.

The release says evidence at trial showed Forbes hosted a party at her home the previous night where alcohol was consumed, and that Forbes drank multiple alcoholic beverages. As guests were leaving, the release says Forbes expressed a desire to go to a bar, and an adult family member took and hid her car key after she attempted to leave.

The victim’s father was also at the party, according to the release, and had been drinking before falling asleep in a bed inside the home. Testimony cited in the release says Forbes later joined him in the same bed with the infant, and while breastfeeding, fell asleep with both the infant and the child’s father in the bed.

The release says the next morning Forbes woke up and observed blood on the infant’s face. Forbes and the child’s father then called 911.

An autopsy was performed October 17th, 2022. The coroner’s report, cited in the release, says the infant died from asphyxiation secondary to a co-sleeping/overlay event with an unsafe sleeping environment.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled for March 27th in Leavenworth County District Court.

Robert Olberding has filed to run for a 4-year term on the Falls City Council in Ward II.

Ted Schuler has filed to run of Mayor of Humboldt.

Monday, March 2 at 5 p.m. is the deadline for candidates to file for the May Primary Election in Nebraska.

Harkendorff filed a form to withdraw from the race for which he had filed to run for a second term earlier.

Harkendorff is currently serving his first term as Mayor.

Candidates have until 5 p.m. Monday to file to run for offices in the May 12 Primary Election.

(KAIR)--Three people were hurt in an Atchison County rollover crash Wednesday afternoon on U.S. 159 Highway, at 250th Road, at Effingham.

In a release, Atchison County Undersheriff Toby Smith says deputies, along with Atchison County EMS and Rescue, responded to that location around 4:50 Wednesday afternoon.

It was there, Smith says, a Ford F-150 driven by 18-year-old Zachary Allen Tull, of Rushville, Missouri, was southbound on U.S. 159 when the truck left the roadway to the right. The release says Tull over-corrected, causing the vehicle to spin around, slide off the right side of the road, and overturn twice, coming to rest upright on its wheels.

Smith says Tull had suspected minor injuries.

Two passengers were also in the pickup. A 16-year-old girl from Effingham was taken by Atchison County EMS to Amberwell Atchison for treatment of suspected serious injuries. A 12-year-old girl from Atchison was reported to have minor injuries. The release says Tull and the 12-year-old were taken to Amberwell Hospital by personal vehicle.

Smith notes none of the three were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

(KNZA)--The City of Horton is working to fill two key positions at City Hall following recent resignations.

City Clerk Brianna Monson submitted her resignation on February 3rd, with her final day in the position February 17th. Deputy City Clerk Carol Stirton has also stepped down and is retiring from her role.

City officials are now accepting applications for both the city clerk and deputy city clerk positions.

A review of applications for the city clerk position began February 17th. The review process for deputy city clerk applications is scheduled to begin March 2nd.

The city has not yet announced a timeline for when the positions will be filled.

(KNZA)--Two administrators with the Doniphan West School District have submitted their resignations.

Doniphan West Elementary School Principal Trish Gibson and Junior/Senior High School Principal Chris Lackey both turned in resignation letters on February 20. No reason for their resignations has been publicly announced.

The USD 111 Board of Education held a special meeting Monday evening. The only item listed on the agenda was an executive session to discuss non-elected personnel.

Superintendent Heather Ball confirmed in an email to MSC News that the board met to discuss the resignations and adjourned without taking any action.

As of this report, both principals remain employed with the district.

No additional information has been released.

(KNZA)--Leadership from Topeka-based Tech’s EMS met this week with the Doniphan County Commission to address concerns about ambulance response times.

CEO Brent Teter told commissioners that while all ambulances are equipped with GPS, mapping systems are not always accurate in rural areas. To improve response times, the company is working with county officials to develop more detailed maps that include exact addresses, road conditions, and key landmarks.

Meanwhile, Undersheriff Brendan Wolvington is in the process of upgrading the county’s 911 dispatch system. The new platform will allow dispatchers to better track ambulance locations in real time, improving coordination during emergencies.

Commissioner Bobby Hall asked whether paramedics respond to every call. Teter confirmed that each call includes either an Advanced Life Support EMT or a paramedic.

Hall also raised questions about how well ambulances handle county roads. CEO Jay Watkins explained that the service’s all-wheel-drive units are more maneuverable and perform better than the heavier four-wheel-drive models.

Teter also reassured commissioners that the company’s hospital transport division does not interfere with emergency coverage. He said ambulances are upstaffed during high-demand situations to ensure continued service.

County officials say they will continue monitoring ambulance response times as these improvements are put into place.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission received updates Monday from the Morrill Public Library and Rainbow Communications. 

Library Director Erin Verbick said the library provided more than $1 million in services last year, delivering a $4.65 return for every dollar of tax money. 

The library hosted over 450 programs and events, saw digital checkouts rise three percent, and serves 2,400 cardholders.  

Julie Bergman of Rainbow Communications updated the Commission on the city-wide fiber project. With the residential portion complete, all business accounts are now being upgraded to 10-gig service, part of a $5 million investment in the community.

During the meeting, Dr. Orval Gigstad of Syracuse, Andy Bishop of Grand Island, and Jeff and Jolene Steffen of Crofton were honored for their outstanding commitment to natural resources conservation and stewardship. The awards recognize leadership, partnerships, and agriculture producers.

Dr. Orval Gigstad, with the Nemaha Natural Resources District was named to the Hall of Distinction for his more than 30 years of being a steadfast champion for natural resources stewardship at the local, state, regional, and national levels.

He has served on the Nemaha Natural Resources District board since 1993 and on the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts board since 1996, including two terms as president.

At the national level, Gigstad has devoted countless hours to NACD committee service and policy development, helping guide conservation efforts nationwide. He previously served as chair of NACD’s Northern Plains Region and currently serves as vice-chair, providing leadership continuity and mentorship. Gigstad is the first Nebraskan to be inducted into the NACD Hall of Distinction.

The Hall of Distinction honors current and past NACD leaders who have made significant contributions to the nation’s conservation movement.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Republican Party has selected a new Register of Deeds.

At a convention held February 21st at the Carwell Building in Hiawatha, the Brown County GOP Precinct Committee nominated and elected Emily Kloepper to the position. Brown County GOP Chair Chris Kroll says Kloepper was the only interested and qualified candidate.

Her name will be forwarded to Governor Kelly for formal appointment.

Current longtime Register of Nellie Brockhoff is retiring Feburary 27th after 38 years of service to the county, including 17 years in her current role.  

Kloepper will serve until the November general election, with the winner of that election set to serve a term ending in January 2029.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission Monday evening approved an upgrade to the City Hall elevator.

A new control board, costing just over twenty-five thousand dollars, will be installed to ensure the elevator remains ADA compliant. 

City Administrator Brad Scott says several components of the elevator are now obsolete and in need of replacement. For budget reasons, Scott plans to spread the full $53,000 in upgrades over two years.  

In other business, the Commission accepted a $17,031 quote from A-1 Pump and Jet Service of Emporia to clean the Hiawatha Country Club effluent basin. The basin, last cleaned two years ago, provides irrigation water for the Club during the summer.  

Finally, the Commission approved a controlled burn on North 4th Street, to be carried out by the Fire Department.

(KMZA)---The 44th Annual Baileyville Benefit will take place this weekend at Nemaha Central High School in Seneca.

This year’s benefit will support four area families facing medical challenges: Theo Nesbitt, Lochlan Rethman, Kirt and Anne Wertenberger, and Rory Mellies. In addition to helping these families, the tournament traditionally provides smaller grants to more than 40 other families throughout the year.

The weekend event will feature basketball and volleyball tournaments running all day Saturday and Sunday, drawing teams and spectators from across the region in a long-standing show of community support.

A silent auction will be set up throughout the building during the weekend, with bidding concluding Sunday afternoon. A live auction is scheduled to begin at approximately 5 p.m. Sunday evening.

Concessions will be available throughout the event, including a variety of homemade items prepared by local residents.

For those unable to attend in person, an online auction is also available. Online bidding closes at 1:30 p.m. Saturday.

Additional information can be found on the Baileyville Benefit Tournament Facebook page.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff's Office is warning residents to use caution regarding a series of yellow signs advertising “NEW INTERNET” that have appeared across the county.

In a statement, Brown County Sheriff John Merchant said he has spoken with local residents who raised concerns about the signs, which list only a phone number and no company name.

Merchant said he called the number and spoke with a person who told him signs were not supposed to be placed on utility poles or in highway and township right-of-ways. He was told the individual answering the phone only handles questions about the internet service and collects customer information.

The sheriff said he was given a separate number to address concerns about the placement of the signs, but reached an answering service and has not received a return call.

Residents have also reported seeing a smaller, dark-colored truck placing the signs and described the activity as suspicious.

Merchant noted that reputable companies typically notify local law enforcement when working in the area and provide information about their business, vehicles, and personnel. He said that has not happened in this case.In addition to concerns about where the signs have been posted, Merchant said the large number of signs placed throughout the county is unsightly and disturbing, particularly because they contain only vague information and no company identification.

At this time, Sheriff Merchant is urging residents to proceed very cautiously if considering contacting the “NEW INTERNET” service, citing several red flags regarding how the business is operating and the lack of clear identification.

Donald Harvey III/Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff

(KAIR)--A 33-year-old Atchison man is in custody following his arrest this week on two warrants, one for aggravated battery, the other for failure to appear in court.

That's according to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, which says 33-year-old Donald Harvey III, of Atchison, was arrested around 12:50 Tuesday afternoon in the 1000 block of Main Street.

Taken into custody for the Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with aggravated battery, he was additionally arrested for a Leavenworth County warrant charging him with failure to appear in court.

Wilson, in the release, explains that the aggravated battery charge stems from a September 16th, 2025 investigation after a 44-year-old woman reported she was visiting Harvey at a home in the 300 block of Atchison's North 5th Street when he allegedly became angry and physically assaulted her. Police say she later went to the hospital for an examination of injuries and notified officers.

Once in custody Tuesday, Harvey was booked into the Atchison County Jail. His bond is set at $51,000.

The post, made to the official social media of Van Dyke Grocery Store by owners Kyle and Sara Van Dyke, says they've "made the tough decision to close our family grocery store" after 120 years of serving the Atchison community at 401 North 4th Street.

Saying the business is "going to wind down the next couple of weeks," the statement ends with the Van Dyke's saying they "really appreciate all our customers over the years."

A specific closure date is not provided, nor is a definitive reason for the closure.

MSC Radio News reached out for further comment on the decision, with Kyle Van Dyke agreeing to provide that information in a forthcoming sit down interview. 

Well known for its full service meat counter, comments to the social media post reflect that, with several decrying the loss while voicing thanks for the years of service.

The announcement follows another, recently announced closure of a long-running Atchison business.

Hilligoss Shoes, which began operating in 1931, announced in a social media post February 7 that this, the 95th year, will be their last.

The Board approved a resolution to sign an agreement with HDR Engineering for the Falls City Northwest Project located on 710 Road betweek 650 and 651 Avenue.

An executive session was held with Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. County Attorney Samantha Scheitel and County Clerk Mary Eickhoff to discuss possible litigation and for the protection of the public interest.

Humboldt Shares President Dr. George Griffith met with the Commissioners providing a quarterly update. He noted the organization had provided a no interest loan to a local business and that the group is always looking at opportunities for businesses to locate in Humboldt.

(KAIR)--A familiar face in the Atchison community will take the spotlight at Atchison’s 42nd annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade, being held under the 2026 theme, "It's a Pot of Gold Party."

Organizers have named Patty Flynn as Grand Marshal for the parade, scheduled for 2:00 Saturday afternoon, March 14. Flynn, a lifelong Atchison resident, is the widow of the late John Flynn, remembered as a longtime teacher and football coach at Maur Hill–Mount Academy.

Parade committee members recently, during a dinner, told Flynn about her selection for the honor. 

Flynn will step into the role 3-hours prior to parade time during a crowning ceremony at 11:00 that Saturday morning at the Atchison Elks Lodge, located at 609 Kansas Avenue.

Committee chair Janie Pickman, in a release announcing this year's selection, says Flynn was chosen from three nominees in a close decision, citing her long record of support for the community. “We are thrilled for Patty, who was among three very qualified nominees in what turned out to be a really close race this year,” said  Pickman. “She has long been a great Atchison community supporter and is highly deserving of this honor.”

Organizers say Flynn was surprised by the honor and is looking forward to having family back in town for the parade weekend. “Everyone is coming back to town and this will be the first time we will all be
together to participate in the event as a family,” she said. “My kids, grandkids and great-grandkids will all be together to celebrate being a Flynn,” she noted. “It’s going to be wonderful!”

Last year’s Grand Marshal, Steve Pickman, also congratulated Flynn, noting her strong reputation in the community and the positive spirit she brings to local events. “She’s a widely respected and beloved member of our community whose warm, ever-present smile is sure to brighten up the day for all parade goers, no matter what our erratic March weather might bring,” he said. “She’s a great choice and I’m extremely happy for her.”

Organizers add that while Flynn’s own family roots aren’t Irish, her late husband’s family heritage includes ties to County Mayo and County Cork, with relatives who immigrated to the United States in the early 1900s. Flynn says she believes her late husband would be proud to see that heritage recognized during the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. “I think John would be very happy,” Patty said. “His Irish heritage and family were very important to him, so taking a moment to think about and honor that heritage would make him smile. I believe he will be smiling down on all of us this St. Patrick’s Day.”

Meanwhile, the deadline for parade registration is fast approaching.

According to the planning committee, those wanting to place a float onto the parade route, in the division of either Family Youth or Organization Business, must do so by March 1, this coming Sunday.

Entry forms, if not yet obtained, can be found at the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce.

Trophies will be awarded in each category, for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, after the parade at the Atchison Elk's Lodge.

MONDAY, 5:00 p.m., March 2, 2026, is the non-incumbent filing deadline.

A complete list of candidate filings on record at the Richardson County Clerk’s Office who will be considered for nomination at the Primary Election are listed below with the incumbents denoted with an * and if a partisan office will be denoted with a Republican, Democrat, Libertarian and LMN for Legal Marijuana Now.

County Commissioner District 1 seat is up for a 4-year term—Shawn Fouraker

Republican. District 1 serves that portion of Falls City Ward 2 lying south of 22nd Street and all of Falls City Wards 3 and 4.

County Assessor—Kimberly L. Riggs* R; County Attorney—Samantha Scheitel* R; County Clerk-Register of Deeds—Mary L. Eickhoff* R; County Clerk of District Court—Kerry K. Fritz R; County Sheriff—Rick Hardesty* R and Nicholas C. Aitken R; County Surveyor—Robert Tichy* R; County Treasurer—Amanda Bartek-Ramsey* R.

School Districts 56 and 70 all have 3 positions up for election this year with up to 6 candidates being considered for nomination at the May 12 Primary Election to be voted upon at the November General Election. Persons who have filed for these positions are: 

School District 56 4-year term—Cassondra A. Goff*; Teresa Olberding*, Anthony S. Johnansen*. School District 70 4-year term—Neal A. Kanel*, Heath Finke, David A. Mezger* and Ashley Shupp.

The City of Falls City and the City of Humboldt have Council Member seats up for election for a 4-year term. Those persons filing for these positions are as follows:

City of Falls City: Mayor—Mark Harkendorff* and Kenny Killingsworth; Ward I— Don Ferguson* and Mark Lowe; Ward II—Sean Nolte and Terry Kermoade; Ward III—no filings; Ward IV—no filings.

City of Humboldt: Mayor—Jan Wilhelm*;

Ward I—Jaymie Nolte*; Ward II—Richard Davis*.

The City of Falls City Airport Authority has 2 members up for election for a 6-year term. Those filings are: Dave Mullins* and Brandon J. Keithley*.

Pursuant to Nebraska Revised State Statutes 32-707 political parties may conduct county conventions at an hour and place to be designated by a political party. The political party shall cause to be published, at least seven days prior to the date of the

county convention, an official notice of the date, time, and place of the convention. If there is not a full quota of delegates for the county convention as established by the political party, the delegates at the county convention may select delegates to fill the quota from the registered voters affiliated with the political party in the county.

Other offices to be nominated at the Primary Election are: United States Senator, Representative in Congress-District.3, Governor, Secretary of State, State Treasurer, Attorney General, Auditor of Public Accounts, Member of the State Board of Education District 5, Board of Governors Southeast Community College District 2; Nemaha

Natural Resource District 8 for a 4-year term and 2-year term, District 9, District 10, At Large and Nebraska Public Power District Subdivision 1. Filing forms for these offices can be obtained at the Office of the County Clerk, but the candidate filing must be made with the Secretary of State.

 Local candidates who have filed for the Nemaha Natural Resources District Board are: District 8—4-year term: Dick James* and 2 year term Klark Knipe*; District 9—4-year term: Alan Romine*; District 10—4-year term: Timothy Schaardt*; At Large—Tracy Ensor*.

The candidate filing deadline for Village Board of Trustees and Educational

Service Unit #4 is July 15 for incumbents and August 3 for non-incumbents.

Credit: Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office

(KMZA)--Pottawatomie County authorities are investigating a major theft in the Wamego area.

The Sheriff’s Office reports that on Monday, a green and black 2026 Can-Am Defender UTV, along with other items valued at over $26,000, was stolen from the Peddicord Road area. Detectives say the theft occurred between 7:35 and 8:05 p.m.

A white single cab flatbed truck was seen in the area around the time of the theft. The vehicle was last spotted traveling east on I-70 near Snokomo Road in Paxico around 8:30 p.m.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Scott Butler at the Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office at 785-457-3353, or submit a tip online at www.ptsheriff.com
.

(KNZA)--A new Hiawatha Middle School Principal has been hired for the 2026-27 school year.

During a special meeting Wednesday morning, the USD 415 Board of Education voted unanimously to hire Dallas Keller.

Keller, who currently teaches math at Hiawatha Middle School, brings extensive experience in education — including previous teaching roles at Doniphan West High School, Troy Public Schools, and Elwood Middle School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Benedictine College and a Master of Education from Baker University.

Keller will succeed Kyley Gatz, who will take over as Superintendent of USD 415 following the retirement of Lonnie Moser at the end of this school year.

(KNZA)--With the upcoming retirement of longtime Brown County Register of Deeds Nellie Brockhoff, the County Commission has appointed Deputy Register of Deeds Deana Long as Acting Register of Deeds, effective March 2.

The decision was made during the Commission’s February 17 meeting. Long will perform all duties of the office until a successor is appointed by the Governor, as required under Kansas law. 

Brockhoff, who has served as Brown County Register of Deeds since 2006, will retire February 27 after 38 years of dedicated county service.  

Following Brockhoff’s retirement, the county Republican Precinct Committee will hold a convention to nominate a candidate to serve as Register of Deeds until the November general election. The nominee’s name will then be forwarded to Governor Laura Kelly for official appointment. The winner of the November election will serve a term ending in January 2029.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Police Department has been awarded a $1,000 grant from the Walmart Spark Good Local Grants program to bolster its efforts against online crime.

According to the department, the funding will be used to purchase advanced digital forensic software for its Community Digital Safety Initiative. The technology is designed to help officers investigate and fight crimes such as child exploitation, identity theft, and cyber fraud—offenses that increasingly impact families and businesses across northeast Kansas.

“Thanks to this grant, our officers will be able to recover digital evidence more quickly, resolve cases faster, and provide stronger protection for vulnerable members of our community,” the department stated.

Officials also extended their gratitude to the Hiawatha Walmart for supporting the initiative and helping enhance public safety through modern technology.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, the first happened Saturday evening around 7:40, with deputies called to K-116 Highway and Ellsworth Road in Atchison County. Laurie says 19-year-old Landon Wahquahboshkuk of Horton had been driving a Volkswagen Passat when it left the roadway and struck a tree. Atchison County EMS and Rescue also responded, transporting Wahquahboshkuk by ambulance to Stormont Vail in Topeka for treatment of possible injuries.

Laurie says it's "believed that alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the crash," with the investigation continuing.

Wahquahboshkuk vehicle/Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff

The second wreck happened Sunday evening around 7:00, sending deputies to the crash scene, U.S. 73 Highway at Thomas Road, where Laurie says 32-year-old Joshua Morris of Leavenworth crashed the Ford he'd been driving.

The investigation shows Morris had been northbound on the highway when his vehicle ran off into a ditch, crashed into a fence, and came to rest against a tree.

Laurie says it's "believed that Morris suffered a medical emergency which led to the crash."

Atchison County EMS and Rescue transported Morris to Providence Medical Center, in Leavenworth, for evaluation.

The Sheriff's Office also worked two separate traffic related incidents in recent days; and while neither involved a wreck, both involved speeds that fell just short of reaching 100 mph.

The first of the two high-speed stops was made last Thursday, on U.S. Highway 59 near 214th Road.

It was there, Laurie's release says, that a deputy stopped Michigan resident John Lalonde shortly before 4:00 and cited him for driving 90 mph in a 65 mph zone.

The second, similar stop, involving the same speed limit, came early Sunday evening shortly before 5:40.

That's when, Laurie says, a deputy stopped eastern Missouri resident Brian Rowles on U.S. Highway 73 at 230th Road.

The 22-year-old driver was cited by the deputy for driving 90 mph in the 65 mph zone.

The citations come after a rash of high-speed stops across Kansas in recent years, with statistics from the Kansas Highway Patrol showing that since 2013, there's been a steady increase in the number of drivers exceeding 100 mph in the state.

(KAIR)--The search for a missing Leavenworth woman continues two weeks after her disappearance, with the family of 25-year-old Megan Bilyea concerned she may be in danger being trafficked.

That word is delivered by the organization Kansas Missing & Unsolved which says Bilyea has been missing since February 9.

She is described as 5-foot-6-inches tall, with brown hair and eyes. Bilyea has tattoos, including a baby foot on her left arm and a Disney-themed sleeve on her right arm. Additionally, she has another on her right forearm which reads, "Real," along with a dream catcher on her right thigh.

Anyone with information related to Bilyea's disappearance is urged to contact authorities at 913-596-3000 or 785-296-4017.

Jose Licon/Photo credit: MH-MA/Facebook

(KAIR)--Maur Hill–Mount Academy has named its next head football coach.

According to a release from Maur Hill–Mount Academy in Atchison, Jose Licon will take over the Raven football program.

Licon brings seven years of coaching experience from Hugoton High School, a 3A program, where he served as Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line coach. He also contributed to the school’s baseball program as both an assistant and head coach.

During his tenure as offensive coordinator, Hugoton qualified for the 3A State Football Playoffs five times. The release says the team posted an 8-and-2 record in 2025, marking the program’s best finish since 2009. His offenses averaged as many as 40-point-3 points per game and earned Top 10 state rankings, including a fifth-place finish in 2025.

Under Licon’s leadership, the program set a school record with 70 points in a single game and produced multiple college recruits, including a Shrine Bowl selection. He was also part of a 2019 district championship team.

A former collegiate player, Licon competed at Garden City Community College and Tabor College. While at Tabor, he was part of two KCAC championship teams and NAIA National Playoff appearances. He was a two-year starter and helped the program achieve a national ranking as high as eighth.

Licon holds a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in education in neuroscience and trauma. He currently serves as a middle school math teacher.

Maur Hill–Mount Academy says it looks forward to the leadership, energy, and offensive expertise Licon will bring to Raven football.

(KNZA)--The City of Hiawatha is searching for a new Chief of Police. 

City Administrator Brad Scott tells MSC News that current Chief Mickey Gruber will retire on March 31st. 

Gruber is retiring after more than 30 years in law enforcement.  He has led the department since May of 2022, following a long career as an investigator with the Hiawatha Police Department and 20 years with the Brown County Sheriff’s Office. 

The city is now accepting applications for the police chief position. According to Scott, applications will be taken through March 9th, with a review of candidates planned for that evening’s City Commission meeting.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County Commission is moving forward with plans to construct a new EMS building in Seneca.

During the Commission’s February 9th meeting, Emergency Management Director Eddie Aldrine and Con Olson with Techs Incorporated presented a possible floor plan for the proposed facility.

Commissioners voted unanimously to authorize Commissioner Jason Koch to engage a designer to draw up layout plans for the building at a cost not to exceed 300 dollars.

In December of 2024, the Commission approved the allocation of 500 thousand dollars in ARPA funding to support construction of the new EMS building.

Nemaha County EMS is currently housed alongside the Seneca Fire Department at 601 Main Street in Seneca.

No timeline for construction has been announced.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has approved appointments to the city’s new Parks and Recreation Board. 

Acting on the recommendation of Mayor Joe Mitchell, the council voted last Wednesday to appoint Joe Schmelzle, Mark Baker, Jessica Hermesch, Mitchell Heiman, Kylie Bergstrom, Alan Meyer, and Paige Niehues to the advisory board. 

In other city business, the council approved the hiring of Brooks Stallbaumer as manager of the Seneca Aquatic Center for 2026, at a wage of seventeen dollars and seventy-five cents an hour. 

The council also accepted the resignation of Jacob Kennedy from his position as lineman/journeyman in the city’s Electrical Department.  

Finally, on the recommendation of City Superintendent Brian Rusche, the council approved a sludge maintenance plan for the city’s lift stations, with a start-up cost of twenty-six thousand five hundred dollars and an estimated annual cost of twenty thousand dollars.

The Levee was severely damaged during the historic flooding in 2019. Fischer said that “after years of work, the levee repairs will help protect lives, property and most importantly, ensure the Peru community is better prepared for future flooding.”

A time frame for the work on the Peru Levy was not included with the release.

During the meeting Adam Howard who will represent Nebraska City/Sub-district 5, and Klark Knipe who will represent Auburn/Sub-district 8, were appointed, took the oath of office, and were installed as directors.

The Board reviewed public testimony received on the Groundwater Quantity Management Rules & Regulations, but no action was taken. Over the next few weeks, NRD board members and staff will continue to review comments received and determine what action to take regarding the proposed rule changes.

Changes to campsite fees at NNRD Recreation Areas were approved by the Board. Electrical camping rates will increase from $16 to $20 per night. A registration fee of $5 per night will now be required for all primitive camping. New rates will become effective on April 1, 2026.

The Board approved a five-year extension on the mowing contract with Jeff & Trevor McClintock for NNRD Recreation Areas & Headquarters. Rates will remain unchanged.

The first day of school in August will be a half-day on August 21. The final day of the next school year will be on May 21. The Christmas break will be from December 19 through January 5.

The Board extended the contracts for Principals Emily Petersen and Jake Shipman for one year, through the 2027-28 school year and accepted the resignation of ACES Director Paula Chambers, effective at the end of the 25-26 school year.

Superintendent Korey Miles reported the Mound City District will be advertising for bids for concrete work at the Ag parking lot with a pre-bid meeting on March 9 with bids due in by March 16 at 11 a.m. He also noted that the “Buzz-In” system for school doors and offices will be upgraded.

The Board also approved the transportation proposal submitted by First Student.

City Administrator Anthony Nussbaum explained this will hopefully allow the time frame on the grant received for the project to be extended. Initially there was a 6-month time frame. Nussbaum feels the City can likely receive a 12-month extension.

The Rural Workforce Housing Fund program helps address local workforce housing shortages and support economic stability. The Council action will allow the city to provide up to $50 thousand in zero-interest financial assistance secured by a second-position lien.

Nussbaum says other entities involved with the project are also supporting the effort including EDGE, which has committed financil support of up to 50 percent of the total assistance made available under the program. In addition, Miller-Monroe Company who has the house listed for sale has committed to contribute its listing commission less any buyer agent commission, toward the assistance pool, contingent upon being awarded the listing agreement for Rural Workforce Housing Fund Project #2 at 606 Morehead Court.

Adopting the program will allow the City to responsibly close out the 1612 Fulton Street project and protect the public investment while advancing workforce housing objectives.

The Richardson County Sheriff's Office was dispatched to a structure fire at approximately 12:31 a.m. Deputies observed a house at 526 9th Street on fire.

Once the fire was extinguished, an individual, later identified at 70-year-old Michael Leroy Ruch was found in a bedroom in the northwest corner of the house.

The Dawson, Humboldt and Verdon Fire Departments responded to the scene along with the Humboldt Rescue Squad.

The State Fire Marshall was notified. The cause of the fire is undetermined at this time.

The Sheriff Office thanked the responding units for their prompt response and coordinated efforts and extended their condolences to the family of the deceased.

(KNZA)--Berwick Oil Company and Ag Partners Cooperative are giving members another chance to vote on their proposed merger. 

While a majority of Berwick Oil members supported the merger in the November 2025 vote, Kansas law requires a two-thirds majority for cooperative mergers — and that threshold wasn’t met.  

Since then, Berwick Oil leaders say they’ve received strong interest from patrons in holding a second vote. Over the past several weeks, the two companies hosted joint customer meetings, during which the possibility of a second vote was discussed. Feedback from those meetings was overwhelmingly in favor of moving forward.  

As a result, both Boards of Directors have announced a second merger vote, scheduled for March 11th. Members will cast their votes at the Main Event in Sabetha from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.  Kansas law allows only Berwick Oil voting members to participate, due to differences in member equity between the cooperatives.  

Both companies say the merger would benefit customers through expanded services, cost savings, and long-term stability, while maintaining strong local service.

Reported around 9:30 Saturday night, the City, in a social media release, called it "a large break in the middle of the highway traffic lanes," meaning the closure of the highway from 14th Street to the U.S. Highway 73 junction. 

Crews worked overnight Saturday into Sunday making the necessary repairs, with the City, late Sunday morning, reporting that the break had been fixed, with water restored to customers in the affected area.

By early Sunday afternoon, the highway had reopened. 

Photo credit: MH-MA/Facebook 

(KAIR)--Atchison’s Maur Hill–Mount Academy Mock Trial team continued its winning run Saturday, capturing the Regional Championship and moving one step closer to a fourth consecutive all-classification state title.

Maur Hill–Mount Academy won the regional crown with victories over Olathe and Blue Valley, with a social media release from the Catholic high school saying the program also got a strong performance from its junior varsity team. They competed in the varsity division and finished fourth after defeating Shawnee Mission and Piper.

The Ravens will compete for the state championship in a few weeks.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council heard the annual report from Spring Creek Golf Course Wednesday evening, and received a request for additional financial support.

Course Superintendent Tony Altenhofen told council members that while 2025 brought some challenges, the course has plenty to be proud of and is looking ahead to a busy 2026 season.

One highlight for the coming year is a new event-- the PGA Junior Tour will visit the course in June.

Altenhofen said the course made two major capital improvements last year, adding 30 new spots to the cart sheds and completing a full overhaul of its irrigation pumps. The total cost of those projects was about 145-thousand dollars.

Financially, the course reported more than 1-point-6 million dollars in total income. However, higher expenses led to a net loss of about 93-thousand dollars for the year.

Income is projected to increase by roughly eight percent in 2026, but the course still expects to finish the year about 12-thousand dollars in the red.

Altenhofen asked the city to increase its annual 10-thousand-dollar subsidy to help offset rising expenses.

Mayor Joe Mitchell said the golf course provides an economic benefit to the community and that the city intends to continue supporting it. However, he said any request for additional funding should be reviewed by a council committee.

(KNZA)--The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education has granted a contract extension to Superintendent Dr. Rebecca Kramer.

The action came following an executive session during the board’s meeting Monday evening.

Kramer’s contract has been extended through the 2027–28 school year. She has served as superintendent since July of 2023.

During the public comment portion of the meeting, five patrons addressed the board to express concerns about moving the NEK-CAP Head Start program into THE Horton Elementary School.

In other business, the board accepted several resignations effective at the end of the current school year. Those include fourth-grade teacher Bethany Becker, second-grade teacher Morgan Burns, and Bryan Hirsch as senior class sponsor.
The board also approved the hiring of Mitchell Fassnacht as maintenance director. Fassnacht began work February 16

(KAIR)--The Atchison County High School track "is in need of significant repairs or potential replacement."

That statement is included on the agenda for the next meeting of the Board of Education for USD 377.

That follows the postponement of the original date of the meeting, which had to been set to happen this past Wednesday; instead, the school board had an unexpected week off due to the lack of a quorum.

That word came in a release from Andrew Gaddis, Superintendent for the Atchison County Community Schools of USD 377, who said the meeting was postponed until this coming Tuesday evening at 6:30.

The agenda will remain the same as originally planned, with the matter of the Effingham track listed under New Business.

Stating the repairs or replacement are needed, the agenda further states that "a plan has been requested for how to make it useable again."

Included with the agenda is a 17-page proposal from Nebraska-based Pro Track and Tennis which outlines the process, including codes and standards to be followed, materials used, and other related aspects of the proposed work.

The three options presented total $419,360.

According to Tuesday evening's meeting agenda, the USD 377 school board will discuss the track's future "and provide guidance for developing a plan."

That’s according to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson.

Prosecutors say 40-year-old Tara Ann Huerta pleaded guilty February 18th in Leavenworth County District Court to one count of involuntary manslaughter and one count of aggravated endangering a child.

Court documents say the charges stem from a March 25th, 2025 incident, when the child was in Huerta’s care. Documents allege Huerta unlawfully and recklessly caused the death, and caused or permitted the child to be placed in a situation where the child’s life, body, or health was endangered.

The county attorney’s office says the child’s mother, 30-year-old Briana Rene Michelle Davis, pleaded no contest on January 21st of this year and was found guilty of abandonment of a child, aggravated battery, and endangering a child. Court records indicate Davis left the child in Huerta’s care, knowing the child could be harmed.

Prosecutors say Huerta’s significant other at the time also faces charges related to the case.

Huerta is scheduled to be sentenced on the afternoon of March 27th in Leavenworth County District Court.

(KMZA)--A Seneca, Kansas-based company is getting a $3 million state grant to develop drone technology for agricultural use.

Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems specializes in unpiloted aircraft.

The company will use the money to build drones that farmers and ranchers can use to improve crop yields and cut costs.

Gov. Laura Kelly announced the grant on Thursday.

“Through investments into cutting-edge precision agriculture technology, we are giving Kansas farmers and ranchers a leg up,” Kelly said. “Kansas' vast cropland and grassland acreage, as well as our diversified agriculture industry, make us the ideal location for these developments.” 

The money was allocated by the state legislature last year.

“My district is full of some of the best farmers and ranchers in the state,” said 1st District Senator Craig Bowser, “It only makes sense that companies like Kelly Hills would want to do research here on new and emerging technologies to benefit our farmers and ranchers.”

Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems was established in 2024 by Heinen Brothers Agra Services to bring advanced Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous ground vehicles into the agricultural sector. Kelly Hills’ mission is to enhance farming operations by integrating cutting-edge technology that improves precision, efficiency, and safety.

“This investment in Beyond Visual Line of Sight radar technology is a critical step toward establishing Kansas as a national leader in unmanned aviation.” said Lukas Koch, CEO of Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems. “Kelly Hills is focused on commercializing UAS technology and strengthening an internationally recognized testing environment that attracts federal partnerships, private investment, and next generation jobs.”

Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Holton man will spend the next decade behind bars after being convicted of sex crimes involving children.

According to Jackson County District Court documents, 23-year-old Quo-Jon Tye was sentenced last Friday to two consecutive 61-month prison terms on two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.  He also received a 34-month sentence for attempted aggravated indecent liberties with a child. That sentence will run concurrently with the two longer terms.  

Tye pleaded guilty in December after the original complaint was amended. In exchange for his plea, three counts of rape were dismissed.  

He was arrested in May of 2025 following an investigation by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and was initially charged as a juvenile. The case was later transferred to adult court in December.  

Tye was given credit for time served. He will also be subject to lifetime post-release supervision and lifetime sex offender registration.

(KMZA)--Onaga USD 322 will host its final community meeting Sunday, February 22 ahead of the March 3rd bond election focused on district facility improvements. 

The meeting begins at 3:00 p.m. at the Wheaton Fire Department and will give residents a last opportunity to hear details and ask questions before heading to the polls.  

Voters will consider two separate questions on the ballot.  

The first proposal would authorize up to 10 million dollars in bonds. That funding would go toward construction of a new elementary wing that includes a storm shelter, renovations to the district’s multi-purpose room, and plumbing and restroom upgrades at both the middle and high schools.  

Question Two is contingent upon the approval of Question One and asks voters to authorize the issuance of up to $2 million in general obligation bonds, with the funds designated for HVAC improvements at the middle school and north gymnasium, replacement of high school windows, replacement of the middle school and commons area roofs, and minor locker room updates.

The USD 322 Board approved a resolution last November placing the bond issue on the ballot.

Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Topeka woman was arrested early Wednesday morning in Jackson County on multiple forgery and drug charges.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse reports that at about 2:15 a.m., a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Subaru Forester near 118th Road and U.S. Highway 75 for a traffic infraction.

The driver was identified as 31-year-old Sierra Mackenzie Schumacher.

During the stop, a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted. Authorities say the search resulted in the discovery of illegal drugs or narcotics, along with fraudulent identification cards and other documents.

Schumacher was taken into custody and booked into the Jackson County Jail.

She faces 20 counts of forgery for making or altering a written instrument, 20 counts of identity fraud involving documents containing personal information with intent to deceive, four counts of possessing or displaying a fictitious or fraudulent identification card, five counts of possession of a controlled stimulant, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a charge of defective vehicle equipment.

Credit: Sabetha Fire Dept/Facebook

(KMZA)--Sabetha firefighters were called to a house fire early Thursday morning near Dakota and Washington Streets.

According to a social media release from the Sabetha Fire Department, crews were dispatched shortly after 6:00 a.m. and arrived to find flames coming from the back addition of the residence. The fire had spread into the attic crawl space, as well as the kitchen and first floor.

Crews launched what the department described as an “aggressive offensive attack” and brought the bulk of the fire under control within about 30 minutes.

Firefighters remained on scene for several hours extinguishing hot spots, conducting overhaul operations, and preparing equipment in case of additional calls.

The homeowner was able to escape safely, and no firefighters were injured. 

Mutual aid was provided by the Morrill and Seneca fire departments. Sabetha EMS stood by at the scene, while Sabetha Police and Nemaha County Emergency Management also assisted.

The Sabetha Fire Department thanked its mutual aid partners for their response. The department also recognized dispatchers for providing critical information and helping guide the homeowner safely out of the house.

(KLZA)-- The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles recently launched a program titled “Ask the DMV,” a new Artificial Intelligence-powered Resident Assistant available on the Nebraska DMV website.

The tool is designed to make it easier for residents to find information, navigate DMV services, and receive answer to common questions quickly and efficiently. “Ask the DMV” will guide users through the DMV website, helping them locate information without having to search through multiple pages. The system is available at all times, day or night and can be accessed directly from the DMV website homepage.

The system does not share, store or transmit personal data to outside sources, ensuring that resident information remains protected and confidential at all times.

The launch of “Ask the DMV” is part of the Nebraska DMV's ongoing efforts to modernize services, enhance customer experience, and leverage innovative technology to better serve residents statewide.

Nebraska residents are encouraged to visit the Nebraska DMV website, dmv.nebraska.gov, and try the “Ask the DMV” system to see how the system can simplify your experience with the DMV.

Keith Marvin with Marvin Planning Consultants explained the areas involved would put the city over the allowed 50 percent blighted and substandard area. A fairly recent state law allows the amount of area designated as “extremely blighted” to surpass the 50 percent threshold.

The study indicated the average rate of unemployment in both areas is at least 200 percent of the average rate of unemployment in Nebraska and that the average poverty rate in both areas exceeds twenty percent.

Advantages of the extreme blight designation allows for a Tax Increment Financing period to be extended from 15 years to 20 years and could also mean tax credits for persons that purchase a home in an extremely blighted area.

Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--Two men from Warsaw, Missouri, were arrested Monday evening following a traffic stop in Jackson County. 

Sheriff Tim Morse reported that just before 9:30 p.m., a deputy stopped a Chevy Cruze on U.S. 75 Highway near 134th Road. Deputies say illegal contraband was found inside the vehicle. 

The driver, 49-year-old Jason Green, faces multiple charges, including possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, driving while license suspended, improper driving, and failure to provide proof of insurance. 

The passenger, 45-year-old Shannen Price, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, and criminal use of weapons.
Both men were booked into the Jackson County Jail. 
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing.

( L-R) Francis Awerkamp, Sean Willcott, Ron Ellis and Craig Bowser

(KNZA)--State lawmakers representing Jackson County will be in Holton this weekend to update residents on happenings at the Kansas State Capitol. 
The Holton Recorder is hosting a Legislative Forum on Saturday morning,( February 21st), from 9:30 to 11 a.m. in the first-floor meeting room of the Jackson County Courthouse.  
Representatives Francis Awerkamp of St. Marys, Sean Willcott of Holton, and Ron Ellis of Meriden will be in attendance, along with State Senator Craig Bowser of Holton.  
Attendees will have the chance to ask questions and speak directly with their lawmakers. Refreshments will be provided, and the event is open to the public.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says it’s continuing to monitor air quality across the state following wildland fires burning in western Kansas.

Those fires started February 17th, fueled by high winds and very dry conditions. Health officials say updates will be shared as new Air Quality Index, or A-Q-I, readings become available.

KDHE warns that wildfire smoke can carry high levels of particulate matter and other pollutants — and it can also contribute to ground-level ozone. Both can trigger health problems, even for otherwise healthy people.

Common symptoms include burning or irritated eyes, a runny nose, coughing, and in some cases respiratory illness like bronchitis. People with asthma or other breathing conditions, those with heart or cardiovascular disease, and children and older adults are considered more vulnerable.

Officials recommend a few steps to protect your health when smoke is in your area: Healthy adults should limit — or avoid — strenuous outdoor activity. If you’re in a higher-risk group, stay indoors as much as possible. Keep indoor air cleaner by closing doors and windows, and run air conditioning with a clean air filter. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

And contact your doctor right away if you experience chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.

For current air monitoring data in Kansas, visit Air Monitoring Data | KDHE, KS.

Monitoring data and fire and smoke information can be accessed at AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.

Early pertussis symptoms often resemble a common cold, including a runny nose, sneezing, mild cough, or low-grade fever. Within one to two weeks, symptoms may worsen into severe coughing fits that can cause vomiting, extreme fatigue, or a high-pitched “whoop". Some people may have trouble breathing and require hospitalization. Since early symptoms are mild, diagnosis is often delayed, which can allow the illness to spread in homes, schools, and childcare settings. Early medical care and treatment with antibiotics can reduce illness severity and help prevent further spread.

Pertussis is especially dangerous for babies and young children, particularly those who are not vaccinated. Symptoms can last for weeks, recovery may take months, and about one in three infants under one year who get pertussis require hospitalization. In Nebraska, infection rates in infants under one year and children ages one to six were higher in 2025 than in 2024.

Anyone who has a cough lasting longer than one week, or who may have been exposed to pertussis and is experiencing symptoms, should stay home and contact a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.

The Wall of Fame is not to be confused with the Sports Hall of Fame, although outstanding athletes could be included in the nomination.

The purpose of the Wall of Fame is to honor and preserve the history of those associated with the Falls City Public School system, who have contributed meritorious service in their field.

The photos and biographies of the current 32 Wall of Fame members are displayed opposite the main entrance to the high school. A selection committee composed of persons representing different eras select the inductees.

The person or persons selected for induction in 2026 will be honored during the Falls City High School Annual Alumni Association dinner meeting at Prichard Auditorium on June 28th.

The Wall of Fame project was started by the late Bob Ferguson and the late Rex Jones, members of the class of 1948.

Anyone interested in making a nomination for the Wall of Fame is encouraged to obtain forms from Steering Committee Directors Roger Lampe by calling 402-245-8207 or Susan Findlay at 402-883-7667.

You can also obtain forms by emailing fchs76wof@yahoo.com

The deadline for submitting nominations this year in March 18.

Jorn's appointment is effective as of Tuesday, February 24 on a part-time basis. He will become full-time for the City on March 1.

During the period he is part-time he will earn $75 per hour with no benefits.

As of March 1 he will earn the same salary as current Administrator/Clerk/Treasurer Anthony Nussbaum, who has resigned with his last day on the job being Friday, February 20.

Jorn served in the position previously. He resigned in 2022.

(KNZA)-Voters in Jefferson West USD 340 will decide the fate of a new bond proposal during a March 3rd special election, and district leaders are inviting the community to learn more before heading to the polls.  

Two public meetings are scheduled this month. The first will be held Sunday, February 22nd at 3:30 p.m. in the Middle School commons, and the second meeting is set for Wednesday, February 25th at 6:00 p.m. in the High School library. 

In December, the USD 340 Board of Education approved a resolution to place a 17-point-5 million dollar bond issue on the ballot. 

The proposal follows the defeat of a 21 million dollar bond measure in November of 2024.  

Superintendent Dr. Brad Neuenswander says the updated plan reflects months of research, planning, and community input. 

If approved, the bond would fund improvements across all district facilities, including classroom additions, safety and security upgrades, HVAC and electrical improvements, and construction of a new track.  

Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Horton couple was arrested on multiple drug charges following a traffic stop over the weekend in Jackson County. 
Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says just after 1:30 Saturday afternoon, a sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic infraction. 
The driver, 40-year-old Shane Garrison, and his passenger, 39-year-old Cheyanna Gordon, were taken into custody at the scene. 
Garrison was arrested for possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC, and possession of drug paraphernalia. 
Gordon was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of THC, and possession of drug paraphernalia. 
Both were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Credit: HCC

(KNZA)--Highland Community College recently presented its annual Drum Major for Justice Awards, recognizing three individuals for their commitment to service, compassion and justice.   

This year’s honorees include student Karis Larson, employee Stacey Jones and community member Christopher Lackey.   Each was nominated by peers and selected by a campus committee.   

Inspired by the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the Drum Major for Justice Award honors those who lead not through titles or recognition, but through service to others. 

College officials say the award celebrates individuals whose everyday actions help uplift people, strengthen the community and promote fairness, dignity and compassion.

(KAIR)--It's official: Atchison County's newest Commissioner has been seated while the County's Treasurer's role is filled.

That follows the appointment of John Calhoon to the vacant 2nd District County Commission seat and Paige Schmidt as County Treasurer during a January 29 convention of the Atchison County GOP. 

Both were sworn in Tuesday, with the County confirming that Judge John Fresh administered the Oath of Office for the two appointees. 

Judge John Fresh & Co Treasurer Paige Schmidt/Credit: Atchison Co/Facebook

Formalizing the appointments followed a review by the offices of Kansas Governor and Secretary of State, ending speculation that Calhoon, the Undersheriff of Jackson County, would not be eligible due to also holding that office. Schmidt had already been serving as interim treasurer at the time of her appointment, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Connie Ellerman late last year. Calhoon replaces former Commissioner Eric Noll, who resigned in January after nearly 11 years in office.Judge John Fresh & Co Commissioner John Calhoon/Credit: Atchison Co/Facebook

Both Calhoon and Schmidt, along with County Clerk Susan Carrigan, who was appointed last year, will have to seek election in November. Atchison County GOP Chair Derek Franklin told MSC News that’s because all three were appointed before reaching the midpoint of their respective terms.

(KAIR)--Special recognition is given to the efforts of a social worker for the Atchison Public Schools for helping preserve weekend food support for students through the Backpack Buddies program.

The Board of Education for USD 409, when meeting last week, honored Kara Soph for outstanding support and leadership after she learned the program faced a critical funding gap. Continuing Backpack Buddies at full capacity would have required nearly $16,000 or the program would have dropped from 80 students to just eight.Credit: USD 409/Facebook

In response, the school board, in a social media statement, said Soph’s proactive leadership and a partnership with the Atchison Salvation Army helped launch a new Backpack Buddies program which is now supported by more than 50 community donors and volunteers.

Because of that dedication and community support, the statement says, Atchison Elementary School students will continue to receive weekend food assistance.

It was last year that the Salvation Army of Atchison County, under the leadership of coordinator Kim Bottoroff, launched an awareness campaign regarding the potential loss of the program due to funding cuts and rising costs, among other factors.

The managing partner and co-owner of Arch+Etc. architectural firm in Lincoln, was elected recently to the Peru State College Foundation Board of Directors, where she’ll serve a three-year term.

Joy spent much of her childhood in Peru, where her parents Jerry Joy ‘65 and the late Marlene Joy were teachers and coaches. She was a fixture at Bobcat athletic events, roaming the practice fields and attending games.

She took coursework from Peru State after graduating from the former Southeast Nebraska Consolidated school in Stella. Joy also attended Kansas State University before transferring to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she earned her degree in architecture.

But she’s remained connected to Peru State and was excited to be asked to join the Foundation board.

Joy also brings a wealth of experience in community service and non-profit organizations. She’s currently the chair of the Lincoln/Lancaster County (Neb.) Planning Commission and chaired and served for seven years at the LUX Center for the Arts, among others.

The Peru State College Foundation is the private non-profit corporation that receives and disburses charitable contributions in support of Nebraska’s first college.

The National Weather Service has issued the warning due to wind and low relative humidity readings.

Much of eastern and central Nebraska are included in the warned area including: Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson,and Gage counties in southeast Nebraska.

The Fire Weather Watch is no longer in effect.

Southwest winds at 20 – 25 mph with gusts upwards of 40 mph are possible with humidity readings as low as 20 percent and the unseasonably warm temperatures contribute to extreme fire behavior. .

Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.

(MSC News)--Kansas is getting a new top military leader at a time when the National Guard is balancing overseas missions with emergency response at home. 

According to a release, Governor Laura Kelly has appointed Brigadier General Paul W. Schneider to become the Adjutant General of Kansas. The opening comes with the upcoming retirement of Major General Michael Venerdi.

The Adjutant General oversees the Kansas Army and Air National Guard—more than 7,000 soldiers and airmen—and also serves as the governor’s homeland security advisor and the state’s director of emergency management. The Governor’s Office says Venerdi took command as the 38th adjutant general during a Transfer of Authority ceremony on April 1st, 2023, and has led the agency for the past three years.

Schneider steps up from his current role as director of the joint staff for the Kansas National Guard, a position he’s held since April 15th, 2023. The release highlights his previous leadership work serving as the Kansas Army National Guard’s Director of Personnel/G1 and as chief of staff, along with multiple decorations tied to deployments including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Spartan Shield. Among the awards listed are the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal.

The Governor’s Office also notes Schneider’s education includes a journalism and mass communications degree from Kansas State University, a master’s in information technology management from Webster University, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College—along with completion of several advanced military schools, including the Command and General Staff College and the Army War College.

Schneider will serve immediately in an acting status while awaiting confirmation by the Kansas Senate.

Garfield Ross III was found guilty last week in Leavenworth County District Court of attempted rape, aggravated indecent liberties with a child, and aggravated criminal sodomy, charges involving a child under the age of 14.

According to court documents cited in a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, the case stems from a July 22nd, 2025 incident that was reported to authorities the same day. Court records say Ross was arrested later that day and was subsequently charged.

Court documents also indicate investigators found DNA evidence on the child’s underwear that was consistent with Ross, or someone biologically related to him.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 18th, 2026.

Mary L. Eickhoff file for another term as Richardson County Clerk – Register of Deeds on the Republican ticket.

In Falls City Don Ferguson filed for reelection to the City Council in Ward I. This is a non-partisan position.

Teresa Olberding filed for reelection for another 4-year term on the District 56, Falls City Board of Education. This is also a non-partisan position.

Today, February 17th is the final day for incumbents to file for election to any office they may choose to seek.

Non-incumbents have until March 2 to file.

Gary Jorn/Credit: city of Falls City

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council will meet Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. at City Hall.

Agenda items will include a recommendation from Mayor Mark Harkendorff to appoint Gary Jorn as the City Administrator/Clerk/Treasurer, replacing Anthony Nussbaum who has resigned from the position with his last day on the job being February 20.

Jorn served in the position before resigning in 2022.

Under the Mayors proposal, Jorn would be appointed effective February 24 on a part-time basis at a pay rate of $75 per hour, with no benefits and would begin the job on a full-time basis on March 1, at a salary, the same as the current City Administrator/Clerk/Treasurer with full benefits.

In his first year on the job Jorn would receive 3 weeks paid vacation time.

While football fans are crossing their fingers for a return to those old days, it appears that in and around Falls City, the road construction season for the next several years will be in full force.

During the annual EDGE Banquet in January and in the EDGE quarterly report, Executive Director Lucas Froeschl presented information concerning several large projects that are being planned by the Nebraska Department of Transportation.

The project that will likely kick off the flurry of road work is replacing the viaduct on West 21st Street which is Highway 8. Plans call for the viaduct to be widened and the project will be done one lane at a time so traffic will be maintained.

In Falls City, plans are for a large portion of of Highway 73 which is Harlan Street will be replaced with all new concrete and could include a change in the layout of the street. Preliminary plans call for the concrete to be replaced from 19th or 20th and Harlan Street south to the city limits in 2027 or 28. The street may be narrowed from four-lane to three lanes which would take it from a 50 foot wide street to 45 feet wide. The project would remove the cement that has been patched many times and replace the infrastructure as well.

Also in the city limits of Falls City will be replacement of the concrete on 14th Street or Highway 159. While it hasn't been that long since this portion of road was redone, there are some issues with the cement which would be replaced. No changes to the current configuration are planned.

Another project in the area will be replacement of the bridge over the Nemaha River east of Salem near the railroad tracks. The current bridge will be completely removed and rebuilt, thus meaning traffic will not be able to use Highway 8 while the project is underway.

At this point the timeline for the projects has not been set.

According to a release from Marshall’s office, the Kansas Republican met Friday morning with students from the college’s Turning Point USA chapter for coffee and an open discussion focused on leadership, public policy, and what the senator called the future of the conservative movement.

The release notes Turning Point USA at Benedictine College was founded in the fall of 2025 and quickly drew strong student interest, reportedly drawing more than 100 students to its first meeting, along with a growing social media presence.

During the discussion, students questioned the senator about federal policy, ways young people can get involved in public service, issues affecting their communities and the nation, and participation in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

Marshall’s office says the senator also received updates on developments at Benedictine College, including construction of a new classical-style library and the school’s efforts to pursue a future osteopathic medical school.

After kicking off his 4 Corners 50 Counties Tour during the Friday morning stop at Benedictine College, Marshall continued his northeast Kansas visit in other area communities.

Using the tour to tout the recently enacted Working Families Tax Cuts, Marshall made a stop in Brown County where he visited Curb Roller, a manufacturing company specializing in concrete shaping products for residential and commercial construction. Marshall, in a statement highlighting his recent stops, cited the tax cuts as a way for such companies to "write off new equipment and factory improvements right away, lower taxes on research, and get more affordable financing—making it easier to grow and hire more Kansans."

The Kansas Republican also traveled to Nemaha Valley Community Hospital, in Seneca, where he met with hospital leadership for a discussion on regional collaboration among area hospitals. Turning to the related benefits of the tax cuts, Marshall's release says they "provide Kansas hospitals with $221.9 million through the Rural Health Transformation Fund to protect critical access hospitals, expand HSA options, and help hospitals in their efforts to continue to serve families across rural Kansas."

The local regional leg of the Senator's tour also took him to Marshall County, and to the local Extension Office where free tax help for seniors is offered. Connecting the tax cuts to the stop, Marshall's release explains that "seniors now get a new $6,000 deduction, a bigger standard deduction, and more ways to lower their state and local taxes, allowing retirees to keep more of their Social Security and savings."

According to Marshall's office, the continuing tour allows him "to meet directly with Kansans and highlight the real-world benefits" of the tax cuts.

Additional stops, his office says, will be announced as the tour continues across Kansas.

Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--A Jackson County jury has found a Mayetta woman guilty on multiple charges stemming from an incident last summer.
According to court records, 37-year-old Chellcie Sparks was convicted on seven counts, including aggravated battery, aggravated assault, criminal restraint, criminal damage to property, interference with law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was acquitted on two additional counts.  
The verdict came after a two-day trial last week. Sentencing has been scheduled for March 27th.  
Prosecutors say Sparks intentionally struck a man riding a motorcycle with her pickup truck on June 30th, causing injuries. They also allege she fired multiple gunshots while threatening several people earlier that same morning.  
A pre-sentence investigation has been ordered. Sparks will remain in the Jackson County Jail until further order of the court. 
Meanwhile, a hearing in a separate misdemeanor case against Sparks—charging her with six counts of violating a protection order—is set for March 2nd.

Credit: KS Department of Commerce

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Commerce has announced that Seneca is one of two Kansas Main Street communities to receive funding through the Residential Opportunities on Main Street, or ROOMS, program.

Locally, the grant will support the rehabilitation of five upper-story apartments above the historic Seneca Twin Theater at 301 Main Street. The project will upgrade electrical and plumbing systems and return long-vacant residential space to productive use in the heart of downtown. Once complete, the apartments will provide new housing options within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and other community amenities.

“This is a big win for downtown Seneca,” said Kylee Bergstrom, Executive Director of the Seneca Area Chamber and Downtown Impact. “The Theater is one of our most recognizable buildings, and bringing housing back to the upper floor strengthens both the building and our Main Street. We are grateful to Kansas Main Street and the Department of Commerce for investing in rural communities like ours.”

Last summer, the Department of Commerce awarded ROOMS grants to five additional communities, creating 29 new upper-floor housing units and generating nearly nine million dollars in private investment. The two projects selected for this round of funding are expected to leverage almost $4.7 million in private investment.

In a news release, Doniphan County Undersheriff Brendan Wolvington reports William Messinger was taken into custody Friday without incident on the warrant stemming from prior reckless driving allegations in Doniphan County.

The Sheriff’s Office says reckless driving is a serious threat to public safety and will not be tolerated on county roadways. Officials also thanked residents who report unsafe driving, saying public cooperation helps prevent crashes, injuries, and loss of life.

Motorists are urged to drive responsibly and watch out for others while traveling throughout Doniphan County.

William Goetz/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--Formal charges have been filed against the St. George man arrested earlier this week in Jackson County following an extensive manhunt involving multiple law enforcement agencies.

Sheriff Tim Morse reports a 12-count criminal complaint was filed Thursday in Jackson County District Court against 43-year-old William Goetz.

Authorities were first alerted late Sunday night when a caller reported spotting a pickup stolen out of St. Mary’s in western Jackson County. Deputies later located the vehicle on 158th Road near N Road and attempted a traffic stop.

A pursuit followed, ending when the truck turned into a driveway in the 15-thousand block of 158th Road, crashed through a fence, and caught fire. The driver escaped into a wooded area. Despite searches using K-9s and drones, he was not found.

On Monday morning, deputies responded to a report of a man hiding in a chicken house.  Deputies, state troopers, and KBI agents searched the area with K-9s, drones, and aircraft, but again did not locate the suspect.

Later Monday afternoon, Goetz allegedly stole a pickup from a residence on U Road. After traveling about an eighth of a mile, the truck rolled, and he fled on foot once more.

Law enforcement continued the search and eventually found Goetz hiding in another pickup near a lake east of U Road on 150th. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Goetz remains in the Jackson County Jail, held on 150-thousand-dollar bond.

Principal Dr. Lucus Dalinghaus reported more than 500 views of options that included a condensed school calendar which included approximately 80 percent of the 80 who cast votes in favor of the condensed calendar with longer school days. Also reviewed was increased recess time and a four-day school week.

Superintendent Jeff Koehler said that one of the calendar's presented to the Board for consideration in January was more traditional, while the other option involved an extended school day for students and a reduction in the total number of days in school by about six student days.

Superintendent Koehler says they are now working to determine the best option for a six-day reduction which could include scattering the six days throughout the year; beginning the school year later or ending the year earlier or a combination of the two options.

The longer school day would move the start time up from 8:05 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. and set the dismissal time at 3:40 p.m. instead of the current 3:30 p.m. dismissal which would add 15 minute per day.

The plan is to have the Board vote on the calendar for the 26-27 school year at the March Board meeting.

The four-day school week is now off the table.

In other business the Board set the price for students taking Drivers Education this summer at $250 per student and approved a contract for Jeff Koehler to instruct the class at a rate of $150 per student.

The Johnson-Brock Board also approved renewing membership to the Nebraska Association of School Boards for the 2026-27 school year at a cost of $3,702.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency is accepting offers for Continuous CRP starting Feb. 12,and continues through March 20, 2026. Enrollment for General CRP will run from March 9, 2026, through April 17, 2026. FSA will announce dates for Grassland CRP signup in the near future.

CRP is USDA’s flagship conservation program, providing financial and technical support to agricultural producers and landowners who place unproductive or marginal cropland under contract for 10-15 years and who agree to voluntarily convert the land to beneficial vegetative cover to improve water quality, prevent soil erosion and support wildlife habitat.

1.9 million acres are available for all CRP enrollments this fiscal year so enrollment is likely to be competitive.

Offers to re-enroll expiring CRP continuous acreage will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. New acreage offered in continuous CRP practices will be considered for acceptance on a first-come, first-serve basis if they support USDA conservation priorities including but not limited to practices that address water quality, such as filter strips and grass waterways, and practices that restore native ecosystems or target specific resource concerns.

The first Continuous CRP batching period ends on March 20, 2026. Offers submitted after this date will be considered for acceptance in subsequent batching periods if acreage remains available.

Continuous CRP participants voluntarily offer environmentally sensitive lands, typically smaller parcels than offered through General CRP. In return, they receive annual rental payments and cost share assistance to establish long-term, resource-conserving vegetative cover. 

Producers and landowners interested in participating in CRP should contact their local FSA county office.

County Commissioners had made a new offer to the Union which was rejected and a counter offer from the Union was rejected during Wednesday's board meeting by Commissioners.

While the County Board has sought several changes to the contract that ended June 30, 2023, the Union wanted no changes to the contract language. The County has proposed a wage increase for each employee effective on July 1 of 2023, 2024 and 2025 and a 2% increase in pay on July 1, 2026 and another 2% increase on July 1, 2027.

The Union seeks a $2 an hour salary increase effective as of, July 1, 2023, July 1, 2024, and July 1, 2025. In addition, wage increases are proposed for July 1, 2026, July 1, 2027 and July 1, 2028.

Without a settlement, the case is scheduled to go back before the Court of Industrial Relations on March 16 and 17.

At the same time, KDHE has rescinded the boil water advisory for the Pottawatomie County Rural Water District 4 public water supply system in Pottawatomie County.

The advisory for Pottawatomie County RWD 4 was issued following a waterline break in the distribution system that resulted in a loss of pressure in part of the system. KDHE notes that inadequate pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and increase the potential for bacterial contamination.

KDHE officials say laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from Pottawatomie County RWD 4 shows no evidence of bacteriological contamination, and that conditions placing the system at risk have been resolved.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation is set to replace two bridges on K-63 in Pottawatomie County.

According to KDOT, work on the bridges over Bartlett Creek and the Union Pacific railroad tracks, located just north of Emmett, is scheduled to begin Monday, February 16, weather permitting.

Officials say the new bridges will be built next to the existing structures, so traffic impacts should be minimal during this phase. Most of the work will take place along the roadway’s shoulders.

Construction will occur during daylight hours, Monday through Friday, and on Saturdays if necessary.

Hawkins Construction Company of Omaha, Nebraska, is the prime contractor on the $12.9 million project, which is expected to be completed by June 2027.

Janet Allen, the county appraiser, met with the Jefferson County Commission to discuss the upcoming notices and the market studies that inform 2026 values, according to the unofficial minutes of the commission’s February 9 meeting.

The appraisal office’s review of the residential real estate market found an upward trend of about 3% to 6%; and, as a result, most residential properties will see an increase in appraised value for 2026 “to adjust for the market conditions,” according to the minutes

For commercial real estate, the market study indicated an overall inflationary trend of about 1% to 3%. Most commercial properties are also expected to increase in value in 2026.

The county’s review of vacant land sales showed a mixed picture, with the minutes noting slight increases in some areas and slight decreases in others. Those market land value changes, whether up or down, varied from 1% to 3% depending on location within the county.

The information shared with commissioners will also be posted on the Jefferson County website.

The Heritage Trust Fund, or HTF, provides matching reimbursements for projects that preserve or restore properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places or the Register of Historic Kansas Places.

13 projects were approved statewide, totaling more than $1 million in proposed grant funding. Atchison County's Memorial Hall, located in the 800 block of the City of Atchison's Commercial Street, receives $63,600 of that proposed total. The County says the funds will be used to give the historic structure a new roof.

Awards were announced February seventh.

In a post to the official Atchison County social media, announcement of the award is called "exciting news for Memorial Hall," with the post commending the "great planning, coordination, and execution" which will allow for the project to happen this spring, with that credit given to Maintenance Director Brian Oswalt.

Credit, or a "huge thank you," as the post puts it, is also given to former Finance Director, Mark Zeltner for what the online statement calls "finding the opportunity, writing the grant, and giving guidance to staff along the way."

The Historical Society calls the HTF process "highly competitive, with individual awards capped at $100,000 and requiring a local match under an 80/20 split. Because of that, the Historical Society offers workshops each year to provide step-by-step guidance for applicants.

Thomas Pahmahmie/Credit: Brown Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Horton man is facing multiple felony charges, including attempted second-degree murder.  
Twenty-nine-year-old Thomas Pahmahmie was arrested Sunday at a residence in Atchison on a Brown County warrant. In addition to attempted murder, he is charged with aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, aggravated domestic battery, and criminal threat.  
Atchison Police say they were notified by Horton Police that Pahmahmie was believed to be in Atchison. He was taken into custody without incident.  
Pahmahmie was formally charged late last month following an investigation by the Horton Police Department.  Brown County Attorney Kevin Hill says the allegations stem from a violent incident involving a female victim in the Horton area on January 19th.  
A preliminary hearing that had been scheduled for Wednesday was continued at the request of the defense. 

Pahmahmie remains in the Brown County Jail on a two-million-dollar bond.

Vicki Adams/Credit: USD 380

(KMZA)--USD 380 has named Vicki Adams as the new principal of Frankfort Schools for the 2026–27 school year, succeeding longtime principal Dean Dalinghaus.

Adams has taught at Frankfort since 1998 and currently serves as the school’s athletic director and coach. Dalinghaus says she is widely recognized across Kansas for her leadership and coaching achievements and is confident she will continue the school’s strong academic and athletic traditions.

A Nemaha Valley graduate, Adams holds degrees in Secondary Education and Educational Administration. She says she is honored to take on the role and looks forward to supporting students and staff while guiding the district into its next chapter.

District officials expect a smooth transition as Adams prepares to lead Frankfort Schools.

(KNZA)--Doniphan County officials are considering an upgrade to the county’s 911 dispatch system that could help save lives.

Undersheriff Brendan Wolvington and 911 Dispatch Supervisor Terri Hunn presented a proposal to county commissioners this week to implement Emergency Medical Dispatch, or E-M-D. The program would allow specially trained dispatchers to provide medically approved, life-saving instructions to callers while emergency crews are on the way.

Instead of waiting for first responders to arrive, callers could begin receiving critical care immediately over the phone.

Under the proposal, Hunn would complete specialized E-M-D training and then train the county’s other dispatchers. She told commissioners that all instructions would be read word-for-word from approved medical scripts.

County Attorney Charles Baskins raised concerns about liability and asked whether the county’s insurance carrier has been consulted.

Commissioners took no action on the proposal and plan to continue discussions after speaking with the county’s insurance provider.

(KNZA)--Jackson County is adding a full-time zoning administrator to handle a growing workload in planning and property appraisal.

The Holton Recorder reports county commissioners unanimously approved the move during last week’s meeting.

County Appraiser and Zoning Officer Kate Immenschuh told the board that increased zoning duties have stretched her staff thin, causing delays in property appraisals.

The new administrator will enforce zoning regulations, work with the planning commission and board of zoning appeals, and manage the county’s Neighborhood Revitalization Plan. The position will also help residents and developers with zoning questions, proposals, and applications.

A full job description is available at jacksoncountyks.com, and applications are due February 20.

(KLZA)--Residents and businesses in Richardson County are being urged to plan ahead when mailing time-sensitive documents.

Departments at the Richardson County Courthouse are alerting the public following a recent clarification from the United States Postal Service regarding postmarking practices.

Under updated Postal Service guidelines, the date the Postal Service takes possession of a piece of mail is no longer guaranteed to be the same date reflected in the postmark. That change could impact documents that rely on postmarks to meet legal or regulatory deadlines.

Officials say this includes property valuation protest forms, real estate tax payments, tax-exempt and homestead exemption applications, early voting ballot applications, and voter registration forms.

In addition, recent transportation changes within the Postal Service system may affect how mail moves from local post offices to processing centers, potentially causing further delays in postmarking.

County officials are recommending several precautions:
Use online or electronic services whenever possible to ensure timely submission.
Mail items early, allowing extra time before deadlines.
Request a manual postmark at your local post office.
And consider optional mailing services such as certified mail, registered mail, or obtaining a certificate of mailing for added documentation.

Anyone with questions about filing deadlines, payment options, or available electronic services should contact the appropriate office within the Richardson County Courthouse.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Baseball and Softball Club met with the USD 415 Board of Education Monday night to provide an update on the Noble Park softball field project and to request financial assistance.
Club member Troy Kolb told the board construction began last April, after completion of the Robinson Center in 2023.  While weather delays slowed progress, Kolb said the new field is expected to be ready for use next month.
Kolb explained the club raises about 60-thousand dollars each year through fundraising efforts. He said they are currently short about 418-thousand dollars and are facing 258-thousand dollars in bills in the next 60 days.  He asked the district to consider providing financial support, noting the new field would benefit both students and the broader community.
Board members and district administrators agreed to continue the discussion at a future meeting.
In other business, the board approved the school calendar for the upcoming year. Classes will begin August 19th and conclude May 20th.
The board also approved the purchase of new high school football uniforms at a total cost of over nineteen-thousand dollars.

Additionally, board members approved a standalone wrestling program at the high school beginning next school year. Middle school students will continue participating in a wrestling cooperative with other schools.
Following an executive session, the board accepted several resignations, including Hiawatha Middle School Head Coach Zach Nelson, High School Assistant Football Coach Chris Diller, Middle School Social Studies Teacher Travis Hampl, and Elementary School Paraprofessional Kaitlyn McCullick.
The board also approved several new hires: Daspin Bruning as Assistant Track Coach at Hiawatha High School, Sarah Davis as High School Spanish Teacher, Rebecca Leitch as School Nurse serving both the middle and high schools, and Jacob Hrencher as Fifth Grade Science Teacher at Hiawatha Middle School.

Credit: Sabetha Fire Department

(KNZA)--Fire damaged a home on Main Street in Sabetha early Wednesday morning.

The Sabetha Fire Department said the call came in shortly after 6:30 a.m.

When crews arrived, they found flames in a second-floor bedroom that had spread into the attic, as well as into a hallway and an adjoining room.

Firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control within 30 minutes of arriving on scene. Crews remained there for several hours afterward, putting out hot spots and conducting overhaul and cleanup operations.

All occupants of the home were able to escape safely. 

The Kansas State Fire Marshal’s Office will assist in determining the cause of the fire.

Sabetha firefighters received mutual aid from the Seneca and Morrill Fire Departments. Sabetha EMS, the Sabetha Police Department, and Nemaha County Emergency Management also assisted at the scene.

Wednesday’s incident marked the department’s 13th call since last Friday.

(MSC News)--The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for part of the Pottawatomie County Rural Water District #4 system, and for the City of Delia water system in Jackson County.

KDHE says the advisory covers the Jeffrey Energy Center, and customers along Jeffery Road east to Highway 63, plus the area between Highway 63 and H Road, from St. Clere Road to Gailand Road—including the city of Delia.

Officials stress customers in Emmett, Westmoreland, Belvue, and St. Marys are not affected.

The advisory took effect Wednesday, February 11th, and will remain in place until the risk of bacterial contamination is resolved. KDHE says a waterline break led to a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Low pressure can reduce chlorine levels and allow contamination.

Until further notice, customers should boil tap water for one minute before drinking or preparing food, or use bottled water.

Silvi Nicholas, District Manager for Spartan Nash said in the email “We have made the difficult decision to close the Family Fare location in Falls City, with our final day of business taking place March 13.”

The email went on to say the company is grateful to their store guests for their loyal support, as well as their dedicated team members for their commitment to their shoppers.

The grocery store had been in business at the 1900 Harlan Street location for more than 50 years, originally opening as a Safeway store, then transitioning to Superfoods, Hinky Dinky in 1990 and the Sunmart in 2000 before becoming Family Fare.

No other details about the closing have been made public.

The accompanying picture is from a Family Fare social media page.   

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will apply for a $300,000 Community Development Block Grant to help repair local homes.

On Monday, the City Commission approved sending the application to the Kansas Department of Commerce and authorized Mayor Becky Shamburg to sign the necessary documents following a hearing that drew no public comment.

Governmental Assistance Services representative Garrett Nordstrom said the grant could help rehabilitate 20 to 25 homes, with a focus on roof repairs. If awarded, the city would provide about $21,000 in matching funds.

The commission also approved replacing the pump at the Knouse Well at an estimated cost of nearly $46,000.  Tests show the current pump isn’t working efficiently.

In addition, the  commission approved relocating the vacuum island at the Red Hawk Carwash on 1st and Oregon Streets at at cost of  just over $9,400. The move is needed to avoid interference with a planned traffic signal project and will be handled by Seneca-based Fleagle Electric.

(KAIR)--A Monday afternoon crash involving a semi and an SUV at the intersection of Atchison's 6th Street and U.S. Highway 59 resulted in no injuries.

In a release, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says it happened around 4:00, with the investigation showing that the Kenworth semi, driven by 17-year-old Kyler Noland of Oregon, Missouri, was westbound on the highway, turning south onto 6th Street when it struck a Ford Explorer driven by 83-year-old Ronald Dorssom of Atchison.

According to Wilson, Dorssom's vehicle had been northbound on 6th Street and was stopped at the intersection's stop sign when the wreck occurred.

Aftermath of 6th and U.S. 59 crash/Credit: APD

In an earlier, unrelated traffic-related incident, a Nortonville man was arrested early Saturday after allegedly failing to stop for an Atchison Police Officer, west of the City of Atchison, on U.S. Highway 73.

A release from Wilson says an officer on patrol early Saturday morning around 1:00 "spotted a vehicle traveling westbound in the 11000 block of U.S. Highway 73, in the wrong lane." The officer, Wilson says, attempted to stop the vehicle, who didn't immediately stop, but ultimately did so following a short pursuit.

According to Wilson's release, the alleged driver was 21-year-old Trent Meredith who was arrested on charges of driving under the influence, fleeing and attempting to elude, reckless driving, and driving on the wrong side of the road.

Taken into custody at the scene of the stop, Meredith was issued a notice to appear in court.

(KNZA)--South Brown County USD 430 has canceled its upcoming varsity baseball season due to low participation numbers.

The district announced the decision Tuesday in a post on social media.

School officials say there were not enough players to safely and competitively field a varsity team this spring. However, baseball may not be completely off the table. The district is exploring the possibility of putting together a junior varsity schedule, depending on final participation numbers and game availability.

Administrators thanked the students who showed interest in the program and encouraged others to stay involved in spring activities.
.

Sarah Federinko/Credit: Atchison Co Sheriff's Dept.   

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman is accused of speeding on an area highway, allegedly driving under the influence while carrying a child passenger.
According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, 31-year-old Sarah Federinko was arrested early Saturday morning on charges for driving under the influence, operating a vehicle without an ignition interlock device, speed, and endangering a child.
Laurie explains the arrest came after deputies stopped Federinko's vehicle around 2:00 Saturday morning for allegedly speeding on K-7 Highway near Atchison County's 318th Road. During the stop, they found that a young child was in the vehicle.
Following her arrest, Federinko was booked into the Atchison County Jail. She's since been released on bond.

(KNZA)--The City of Hiawatha has been awarded a $650,000 Moderate Income Housing grant from the state to support construction of ten new duplex housing units near Bruning Park.

The announcement was made Monday in a release from the Hiawatha Foundation for Economic Development.

The project is the result of nearly four years of collaboration between the City, HFED, and private development partners. HFED initially identified the housing grant opportunity and helped lay the groundwork before the City stepped in as the official applicant.

City Administrator Brad Scott said the award demonstrates what long-term teamwork can accomplish. HFED Director Mikaela Moore added that housing projects require persistence, and this investment will help meet a critical community need.

The new development will expand housing options in Hiawatha and support workforce and economic growth in Brown County. 

More details will be released as the project moves forward.

(KNZA)--The Sabetha Fire Department has been especially busy over the past several days, responding to an unusually high number of emergency calls.

Since Friday morning, the department reported Tuesday that it has handled eleven separate incidents. Those included a two-vehicle crash that required extrication and involved thirteen patients, a mutual-aid house fire, a fuel spill, several false alarms, and more than half a dozen grass fires.

On Sunday alone, firefighters were dispatched shortly after noon, with many not returning to the station until early evening. During that time, crews were dealing with multiple calls happening at the same time.

The department thanked its firefighters and partner agencies for their dedication, noting mutual-aid responses with departments across the region and coordinated efforts with multiple EMS and law enforcement agencies.

(KAIR)--A major federal investment of $1.7 million is coming to Valley Hope in Atchison to expand and modernize the addiction treatment facility.

The funding will support upgrades and improvements to help Valley Hope serve more people seeking recovery from drug and alcohol addiction.

United States Senator Jerry Moran announced the investment during a visit to the facility on Friday. The Kansas Republican said the funds were secured through his role as a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. 

Valley Hope CEO Dr. Patrick Hall, Atchison Mayor LaRochelle Young, Foundation Executive Director Megan O’Connor, Father Meinrad of St. Benedict’s Abbey, and Rick Berger and Karen Seaberg, co-chairs of Valley Hope’s Honorary Campaign, were all commended by Moran for their continued leadership and support. He said their dedication continues to make a lasting impact on those touched by Valley Hope’s mission of healing and recovery.

The federal funds come as the non-profit addiction treatment facility is engaged in the Bridge to Recovery Capital Campaign, a $6.8 million project designed to expand and renovate the campus of the Atchison facility to meet what Valley Hope calls "growing community needs."

Atchison wasn't Moran's only local stop on Friday, with the Senator also visiting Brown and Nemaha Counties where allocated funds for local law enforcement were announced.

In Brown County, he joined Sheriff John Merchant to unveil $177,000 in federal resources for the Brown County Sheriff’s Office. The funding will be used to upgrade patrol vehicles, helping ensure deputies have reliable transportation, along with an expected improvement to response times, as they patrol the rural county. Moran voiced appreciation for Sheriff Merchant, Brown County Commissioner Richard Tesoriero and the entire Brown County Sheriff’s Office for their service.A Friday morning stop in Nemaha County saw Moran join Seneca Police Chief Dylan Blevins and Mayor Joe Mitchell at Seneca City Hall to announce $536,000 in federal support for the department. The funding will be used to purchase in-car computers and upgraded body-worn cameras. He thanked Police Chief Blevins, Mayor Mitchell, Kansas State Senator Craig Bowser, Seneca City Manager Steve Brooks, City Council Members Jim Mitchell, Mike Stallbaumer, Kris Enneking and Ray Shinn and retired law enforcement officer Glen Osterhaus for joining him at the event and for their dedication to serving the Seneca community.Moran, in a release that followed his local visits, said the law enforcement investments reflect his commitment to ensuring agencies have the tools and support they need during what he described as "an increasingly challenging time for policing."

The Republican senator also made two stops in Doniphan County. In Elwood, Moran announced more than $400,000 in federal funding for the Elwood Police Department. The money will go toward two new patrol vehicles, updated radio systems, in-car dash cameras, and body cameras. In Wathena, Moran announced $95,000 for the Wathena Police Department to acquire upgraded radios.

(KNZA)--Two people were killed in a head-on crash early Monday in northern Jackson County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash happened around 12:15 on U.S. 75 Highway, south of 302nd Road.

Troopers report 62-year-old Nadine Aylesworth of Whiting was driving southbound in the northbound lanes when her Pontiac Grand Prix collided head-on with a Ford Fusion driven by 18-year-old Heather Browning of Goff.

Both drivers were alone in their vehicles and were pronounced dead at the scene.

The Patrol says both were wearing seat belts.

Falls City Mayor Mark Harkendorff/Credit: city of Falls City

(KLZA)-- Falls City Mayor Mark Harkendorff says he has received and accepted, with regret, the resignation of City Administrator / Clerk / Treasurer Anthony Nussbaum, with an effective date of February 20.

Harkendorff in a release wished Nussbaum the best in his future endeavors.

The release goes on to say that city operations will continue with the Deputy City Clerk and Deputy City Treasurer performing the functions of those offices until the vacancy is filled.

Harkendorff said he will submit a name for appointment to the City Council for confirmation at a future meeting.

William Goetz/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A stolen vehicle suspect who eluded Jackson County law enforcement for more than a day is now in custody.

Sheriff Tim Morse says 43-year-old William Goetz of St. George was arrested late Monday afternoon near 150th and U Roads.

Authorities were first alerted shortly before 10 Sunday night when a caller reported spotting a pickup stolen out of St. Mary’s in western Jackson County. Deputies later located the vehicle on 158th Road near N Road and attempted a traffic stop.

A pursuit followed, ending when the truck turned into a driveway in the 15-thousand block of 158th Road, crashed through a fence, and caught fire. The driver escaped into a wooded area. Despite searches using K-9s and drones, he was not found.

On Monday morning, deputies responded to a report of a man hiding in a chicken house. Deputies, state troopers, and KBI agents searched the area with K-9s, drones, and aircraft, but again did not locate the suspect.

Later Monday afternoon, Goetz allegedly stole a pickup from a residence on U Road. After traveling about an eighth of a mile, the truck rolled, and he fled on foot once more.

Law enforcement continued the search and eventually found Goetz hiding in another pickup near a lake east of U Road on 150th. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Goetz was booked into the Jackson County Jail on multiple charges.

The latest filings reported include Nicholas Aitken filing to run as a Republican candidate for Richardson County Sheriff. Aitken, a former Richardson County Deputy and current member of the Falls City Police Department will challenge incumbent Sheriff Rick Hardesty for the Republican nomination for Sheriff.

Kenneth Killingsworth has filed to run for Mayor of Falls City. The current 2nd Ward City Council member will be challenging incumbent Mark Harkendorff who filed earlier for the non-partisan position.

Samantha Scheitel has filed for re-election at County Attorney in Richardson County on the Republican ticket.

Cassondra Goff has filed for reelection to the Falls City Board of Education.

Heath Finke of Table Rock has filed for a position on the Humboldt -Table Rock – Steinauer School Board, which is School District 70 and David Mezger of Table Rock has filed for re-election to the HTRS Board of Education.

The deadline for incumbents to file for re-election or another office is February 17. Non-incumbents have until March 2nd to file to run in the May Primary Election.

EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl said steps to bring the facility to the area are currently underway and that he has heard nothing to lead him to believe the project is not moving forward.

Froeschl says the timeline for the facility to be in production remains the same as originally laid out.  2026 will be a year of planning and organizing the company with plans to begin construction of the facility to be located south of Falls City in 2027 and be in production in 2029.

Citroniq announced in 2025 that the company has entered into a supply agreement with ABB to provide advanced automation, electrification and digitalization solutions for the facility in Falls City.

(KAIR)--Paparazzi was the word that sealed the win at this years Atchison County Spelling Bee. 

More than 40 students from Atchison County's elementary and middle schools competed Tuesday in the countywide event. 

According to a release from pronouncer Neil Wieland and Tyler Lueckenhoff, USD 409 Activities Director who emceed the competition, it took place at Atchison County Middle School and stretched through 26 highly contested rounds. 

Seventh grader Anthony Muller from Saint Benedict Catholic School earned the title of county spelling champion by correctly spelling the word paparazzi.  Muller will now advance to the Kansas State Spelling Bee on March 21st at Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina. 

Finishing as runnerup was Emilia Stadthagen also a seventh grader at SBCS. Photo of winners credit:USD 409 Activities Director Tyler Lueckenhoff

Judges included Victoria Grable an eighth grade English Language Arts teacher at Atchison Middle School and Diane Liebsch retired administrator and teacher.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman is accused of threatening two roommates with a handgun and allegedly holding them against their will during a violent disturbance late last week.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 63-year-old Nena Dempsey was arrested Friday in the 1400 block of Santa Fe Street on charges of aggravated assault, criminal restraint, and battery.Wilson says officers responded to a disturbance at a residence in that location around 8:30 Friday morning. An investigation determined it began around 10:00 Thursday night and involved all three who reside together.

During the disturbance, Dempsey allegedly threatened the two roommates with a handgun and then locked them, a 56-year-old man and a 66-year-old woman, inside a bedroom where they remained throughout the night.

Police also allege Dempsey struck the 66-year-old woman in the face multiple times Friday morning.

Dempsey was taken into custody then transported and booked into the Atchison County Jail. Her bond is set at $20,000. 

In a separate, unrelated arrest that followed that of Dempsey two days later, Atchison Police arrested a Horton man Sunday on a Brown County warrant charging him with numerous crimes, including an attempted murder charge.

According to a release from Wilson, 29-year-old Thomas Pahmahmie was taken into custody around 11:15 Sunday morning at a residence in the 500 block of Atchison's Park Street.

Wilson says Pahmahmie was wanted on an outstanding Brown County warrant for attempted second-degree murder, aggravated kidnapping, aggravated battery, aggravated domestic battery, and criminal threat.

Atchison Police were notified by Horton Police that the suspect was believed to be in Atchison, leading Atchison officers to locate Pahmahmie at the residence where he was arrested without incident.

Once in custody, Pahmahmie was transported and booked into the Atchison County Jail. He was released Sunday evening to Brown County custody. His bond is set at $2 million. 

Photo credit: County of Atchison/Facebook

(KAIR)--It was a celebration of local businesses, community leaders, and volunteers who contribute to Atchison’s quality of life and economic success Saturday night, with the Atchison Event Center hosting the annual Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet.

The banquet each year brings together Chamber members and local area leaders, both business and governmental, for an evening of recognition, networking, and community celebration.

Highlights of the evening included live voting for the Love Local Award as well as the return of the Dessert War, allowing Saturday night's guests to bid on desserts prepared by local businesses.

As is tradition, a key to the evening was the awarding of the annual Chamber Awards presented to recognize businesses, organizations, and individuals for leadership, service, and commitment to the Atchison community.

According to Chamber Executive Director Jill Thorne, the Volunteer of the Year award went to Randell Vanderweide of BRT Construction. The Atchison Juneteenth Committee was named Organization of the Year, while the Spirit of Atchison Award was presented to Steve Caplinger.

Roger Caudle earned the Legacy Alive Award, the Service and Dedication Award was given to the Chamber's Dianna Kruger, and Atchison Athletic Academy was named Entrepreneur of the Year.

Recognized as the top award presented during each banquet is that of Business of the Year. Earning that honor during this year's celebration was Honey Do Farms, whose goal is to "give families the experience of a small homestead [and] self-sufficient ways" through the events they hold and the products they offer.

Also honored during the evening was the County of Atchison, recognized for 170 years.

Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--Two separate traffic stops in Jackson County over the weekend along U.S. 75 Highway led to multiple drug arrests.  

Sheriff Tim Morse says the first stop happened Friday evening just after eight o’clock near 126th Road. The passenger in a Ford pickup, 61-year-old Daniel Hyston of Topeka, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, a hallucinogenic drug, and drug paraphernalia. The driver, Frank Newton, also of Topeka, was taken into custody on an outstanding Topeka warrant.  

Then early Sunday morning, shortly before two o’clock, deputies stopped a GMC Terrain near 102nd Road. A search of the vehicle led to the arrest of the driver, 61-year-old Raymond Earl Hughes of Topeka, for possession of methamphetamine and no proof of insurance. The passenger, 60-year-old Julyn Michelle Owens of Topeka, was arrested for possession of a hallucinogenic drug and drug paraphernalia.  

All four were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KNZA)--Doniphan County authorities are investigating a drug-related case following the execution of a search warrant last week at a Highland residence.

Undersheriff Brendan Wolvington said deputies, working alongside the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and police officers from Highland and Troy, served the warrant just before 6 p.m. Tuesday in the 500 block of North Ives Street. 
During the search, officers recovered suspected methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. A significant amount of cash believed to be connected to the investigation was also seized. 

The case has been forwarded to the Doniphan County Attorney’s Office for review. 

The investigation remains ongoing.

(KNZA)--Brown County residents are invited to have " Coffee with the Commissioners." 

The Brown County Commission will hold the first informal community meeting on Thursday February 12th at 5:30 in the evening at the Bruning Barn, located at the Brown County Historical Society Ag Museum on East Iowa Street in Hiawatha.   
Commission Chairman Lucas Heinen says the public is encouraged to stop by, enjoy some coffee and share their thoughts, questions or concerns.   

Commissioner Richard Tesoriero says the event is for people who would normally be reluctant to come to the regular county meetings and to increase ease of access to the commissioners.  

Heinen says they initially plan to hold the informal meetings once a quarter.

(KMZA)--Nine people were injured in a two-vehicle crash Friday afternoon in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash happened on U.S. 36 Highway, about one mile east of K-236, shortly after 4:00.

The Patrol reports 71-year-old Timothy Wanklyn, of Frankfort, was westbound when, for an unknown reason, his pickup truck drifted left of center and went head-on with an eastbound van. 

Wanklyn and a passenger, 25-year-old Cody Wanklyn, of Frankfort, were both transported to the Nemaha Valley Community, in Seneca, with suspected serious injuries.

The Patrol says both were wearing seat belts.

The driver of the van, 28-year-old Gilver Caceres, of Topeka, and six passengers, also from Topeka, were transported to three local hospitals--six with suspected serious injuries and one with suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says four other passengers in the van left the scene of crash. Their injury status is unknown.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council received the Fire Department’s annual report at their February 4th meeting, highlighting the department’s activities over the past year.

New Fire Chief Travis Emmons, who succeeds Tom Haug after his three-year term, presented the report. He also announced that Tony Kramer has been elected 1st Assistant Chief and Robert Olson as 2nd Assistant Chief.

Last year, the department responded to 85 calls—37 in the city and 48 outside.

In other business, the Council approved an amended loan agreement with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for the new water plant. The city has secured an extra $254,000 in funding that won’t need to be repaid. Loan repayment is set to begin in August 2028.

The Council also approved a draft contract with AHRS Construction for the new ballfield project and authorized the city administrator to sign the final contract.

In addition, the Council accepted the resignation of Jacee Corby from the Seneca Free Library Board and appointed Michaela Schmelzle to fill her unexpired term. Schmelzle will then serve her own four-year term until April 2030.

(KAIR)--Atchison's Fire Chief say last week’s fire at a historic home at 302 North 2nd Street was accidental.

Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar says investigators found no signs of arson or tampering. That’s after checking nearby security video and interviewing neighbors, with no suspicious activity reported.

The home was vacant but still had utilities and a working modern heating and cooling system at the time of the fire.

According to the State Register of Historic places, the structure, known as the McKelvey House, is considered one of the town's oldest historic homes, recognized as a contributing property in the State Register.

Weishaar, in the release issued exactly one week after the fire, said investigators will continue reviewing evidence as cleanup of the property begins.

Weishaar says the department remains committed to identifying fire causes and offering support to the affected.

The scam attempt has lead to what Brown County Sheriff John Merchant describes as "numerous concerns" voiced to his office by area residents. 

Merchant, in a release, explains the callers are impersonating internet service provider Brightspeed, claiming, when the phone is answered, that the company is updating its payment system. Intended victims are asked to “verify” their bank information.

Merchant says Brightspeed has confirmed the calls are not from the company, adding that reports from residents say the callers can be rude and pushy, and the caller ID may display spoofed Kansas numbers.

Merchant is firm in saying to never share any personal information when contacted by unknown callers despite what the call ID says. 

If you believe you’ve been targeted or have fallen victim to a scam, contact local law enforcement immediately.

The declared purposes of the Nebraska Open Meetings Act, are that the formation of public policy is public business and may not be conducted in secret, and that every meeting shall be open to the public in order that citizens of Humboldt may exercise their democratic privilege of attending and speaking at meetings of public bodies, except as providing by the Constitution of Nebraska, federal statutes, and the Open Meetings Act.

The City of Humboldt is committed to citizen participation in the process of open government and the formation of public policy. The City of Humboldt believes that all human beings need to be treated with respect and dignity when engaging in public discourse at City Council meetings, and that tolerance of all views on an issue of public policy is the cornerstone of an effective democratic system of governance.

The Nebraska Open Meetings Act provides that a public body may “make and enforce reasonable rules and regulations regarding the conduct of persons attending, speaking at, videotaping, televising, photographing, broadcasting, or recording its meetings, including meetings held by virtual conferencing.

Included in the Rules and Regulations are provisions that:

All persons desiring to address to the City Council shall first be recognized by the Mayor before speaking.

In his letter of resignation Nussbaum thanked his colleagues, partners and community members he has worked with since being hired in 2022. He also noted in the letter that over time, it has become clear that his current career path no longer aligns with the goals he has for his family, calling the demands of the role, “while important, requiring sacrifices that are no longer compatible with the balance, presence and stability he wants to prioritize. Choosing family wellbeing and long-term sustainability the right decision for me at this point in may life.”

It has been a tumultuous year at City Hall with the entire City Line Crew resigning en-mass, followed by a contentious negotiation over wages for the non-union city management positions.

Nussbaum noted in his letter that he would be open to discussing interim contracted support to the city if helpful, until a new person can be hired for the job.

(KAIR)--An Atchison woman has been arrested on a District Court warrant following an investigation into financial crimes.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 35-year-old Amber Mierkey was arrested Wednesday on the warrant which charges her with computer crime, criminal use of a financial card, and theft.

Wilson explains in the release that the charges stem from a May, 2022 case when it's alleged that information from a financial card belonging to a 31-year-old St. Joseph, Missouri resident was used criminally to make five separate purchases at an Atchison retail store.

The total taken through the alleged, unauthorized use of the financial information was, Wilson says, $169.50.

Once she was in custody, Mierkey was transported and booked into the Atchison County Jail.

She has since been released on a $15,000 bond.

(KAIR)--The results of the Atchison County GOP convention held January 29 to fill two county vacancies are now awaiting state approval.

During that convention, delegates appointed John Calhoon to the vacant 2nd District Atchison County Commission seat and Paige Schmidt as Atchison County Treasurer.

Atchison County GOP Chair Derek Franklin tells MSC Radio News the appointments have been sent to the Kansas Governor’s Office and the Secretary of State for review. The Atchison County Clerk mailed the official results through registered mail on Tuesday, January 3. The state has seven business days to respond once the notice is received.

Questions have been raised about Calhoon’s eligibility for the commission seat, since he also serves as Undersheriff for Jackson County. Franklin said those concerns are part of the review process, adding he’s thankful for the checks and balances that help ensure the integrity of elections and appointments.

If the appointments are approved, both Schmidt and Calhoon — along with County Clerk Susan Carrigan, who was appointed last year — will have to seek election in November, as all three were appointed before reaching the midpoint of their respective terms.

Calhoon replaces former Commissioner Eric Noll, who resigned in January after nearly 11 years in office. Schmidt has been serving as interim County Treasurer following the resignation of Connie Ellerman prior to the start of 2026.

Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Robinson man is jailed in Jackson County following a traffic stop.

Sheriff Tim Morse reports a deputy conducted a traffic stop Tuesday on U.S. 75 Highway near 118th Road on a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix for an alleged traffic infraction. 

During the traffic stop, the deputy discovered what was believed to be methamphetamine. 

The driver, 51-year-old Aaron Gibson, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and operating a vehicle without a valid license.

Following his arrest,  Gibson was booked into the Jackson County Jail, where he is being held on a $5,000 bond. 

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has approved a zoning change that will allow a junk and salvage yard to operate near Wathena.  

During Monday’s meeting, Zoning Administrator Scott Morris presented a recommendation from the Doniphan County Planning Commission on behalf of applicant Tim Hontz. The request was to rezone property at 2439 165th Road from A-1 Agricultural to A-1 Agricultural with a Conditional Use.  

The Planning Commission recommended approval with several conditions. The salvage yard must be fully enclosed by a solid fence or wall at least six feet high, and no junk may be stored outside the fenced area or within the public right-of-way. Any burning would require approval and be limited to daylight hours, and the site would also need proper stormwater drainage.   

The Doniphan County Commission voted unanimously to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and approve the zoning change.

2026 STEP Board Members: Back Row (left to right): Rick Smith, Kevin Feldkamp, Linda Lortscher, Anissa Bloom, Renee Meyer, Tami Mars, Leon Haverkamp
Front Row (left to right): Tim Rottinghaus, Bonnie Meeks, Maggie Grier, Tory Jost (Executive Director), Stacie Korte.  Dustin Walters was absent. Picture: submitted

(KMZA)--The Nemaha County STEP Foundation celebrated its 33rd anniversary this year, marking more than three decades of supporting local projects and charitable causes since its founding in 1993.  
On January 28th, the foundation held its annual meeting, starting with a meal catered by Home Cookin’ of Seneca, sponsored by Koch and Company.  
During the meeting, the foundation announced its 2025 grant awards, which funded a variety of projects throughout the county, and reported the opening of nine new funds.  
STEP Foundation Executive Director Tory Jost shared that the fifth Match Day set a new record with over 414 gifts totaling nearly $295,000. The sixth Match Day is set for August 28th.  
During the business portion of the meeting, Linda Lortscher was elected to the STEP Foundation Board and Bonnie Meeks was re-elected for a second term.  
Outgoing President Dan Heiman was recognized for eight years of service. Treasurer Tim Rottinghaus reported year-end assets of over $3.2 million, which is a new record.  
Following the meeting, new officers were elected: Maggie Grier as President, Renee Meyer as Vice President, Leon Haverkamp as Secretary, and Tim Rottinghaus as Treasurer.

(KNZA) The Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau held its annual meeting Monday evening at the Fisher Center.

A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of the Chamber’s annual awards.

Oak and Willow was named "Business of the Year", while the Hiawatha Foundation for Economic Development received "Organization of the Year" honors.

"Volunteer of the Year" went to Kate Miller.

Award recipients are nominated by the public and voted on by Chamber members.

This year’s meeting also featured Olympic-themed fun.

(KAIR)--The City of Atchison has launched a new online billing and payment system called InvoiceCloud.

City Manager Mark Westhoff says residents who want to view or pay their bill online will need to set up a new InvoiceCloud account.

InvoiceCloud replaces the City’s previous online billing vendor and also serves as the new online and card payments processor.

Residents who wish to pay with a credit or debit card will need to create a new account and set up their preferred payment method through the new system.

InvoiceCloud charges a three point one five percent processing fee for all online or card payments.

The new platform also allows more ways to pay — including Venmo, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and pay by text.

Westhoff adds that residents who want automatic payments without any fees can continue using the City’s longstanding, free Automatic ACH Bank Draft program.

Funding secured for the projects includes:

$600,000 to relocate the Midfield Connector Taxiway at Brenner Field Airport in Falls City.

$3.4 million to complete the parallel taxiway and improve the lighting system at the Nebraska City Airport

$1.8 million to replace Plattsmouth’s aerial ladder fire truck

$1.3 million to upgrade Friend’s fire hall facilities

$4.7 million to pave a 4-mile stretch of Hickory Road in Gage County

$4 million to road improvements for Fairbury Highway 136

$880,000 to pave the Adams Bypass

The funding was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations Act – passed by Congress – which now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

While most of the projects have been completed, there are some to finish up and the extension will allow for a better time frame for those projects to be completed.

The Council also approved on first reading an amendment to an ordinance that would change the time frame for terms of office for the City Council President and Acting President of the Council from one year to two years.

Also approved was soliciting for bids for daily and weekly refuse service for municipal owned properties. Council member Kenny Killingsworth noted the current budget for the service is $19 thousand annually and that it had been quite a while since bids were taken for the service.

The final action item Monday night was approval of the appointment of Jon Kirkendall to the Falls City Airport Authority, with the term to end in 2029.

(KAIR)--Two men face charges after a late-night traffic stop in Jackson County led to the discovery of what’s alleged to be illegal drugs.

Sheriff Tim Morse reports that around 10:30  Monday night, a Jackson County deputy conducted a stop on a Dodge Journey for multiple alleged traffic violations along U.S. Highway 75 near 118th Road.

During the stop, a Sheriff’s Office K-9 alerted to the alleged presence of illegal drugs inside the vehicle. A probable-cause search followed, and deputies allegedly found narcotics and other illegal substances.

The driver, identified as 26-year-old Irving Dawayne Edwards, and the passenger, 22-year-old Juantario Isia Roberts, both of Topeka, were taken into custody.

Both men face charges for distribution and possession of stimulants, marijuana, and narcotics, possession of drug paraphernalia, and no drug tax stamp.

Edwards also faces charges for driving while suspended, no insurance, and unlawful display of license plates.

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

Credit: Falls City Police Department

(KLZA)--A Falls City man was arrested Tuesday on drug-related charges following the execution of a search warrant at a Falls City apartment complex.

Falls City Police served the warrant at Apartment 29 of the Eastview Apartments, located at 800 East 21st Street.

During the search, officers seized more than 17 grams of methamphetamine, a large amount of cash, a scale commonly used in drug sales, and multiple items of drug paraphernalia.

Edward James Perman was arrested at the scene and booked into the Richardson County Jail.

He faces charges including possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine, failure to possess a drug tax stamp, possession of drug paraphernalia, and additional related charges.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The homestead exemption provides relief from property taxes by exempting all or a portion of

the taxable value of the residence. The State of Nebraska reimburses counties and other

governmental subdivisions for the property taxes lost due to homestead exemptions.

In Nebraska, a homestead exemption is available to the following groups of persons:

• Persons age 65 or older before January 1, 2026;

• Qualified disabled individuals; or

• Qualified disabled veterans and their surviving spouses.

Some categories are subject to household income and residence valuation limitations. The

income limitations are on a sliding scale based on filing status and homestead exemption

category.

Homestead exemption forms and information are available at

https://revenue.nebraska.gov/PAD/homestead-exemption

For more information on the homestead exemption program, please contact your county

assessor’s office, or the Department at 888-475-5101.

The Board also is reviewing the possibility of developing zoning regulations at a later time.

Following a public hearing during the Boards January 28 meeting which drew no public comment the Board voted to approve the 1 & 6 Year Highway Improvement Program for Richardson County.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty reported his department has applied for grant funding to help obtain body cameras. It was also noted that a listing of vehicles that have been declared surplus will be included with the items from the Road Department and will be submitted to the Board for consideration to be offered for sale in an online auction in the near future.

According to a release from the committee, volunteers will help clear areas for the lake’s first designated walking trail. Participants are encouraged to bring trimmers or loppers, wear hiking boots, and be prepared for a day of outdoor work.

The committee also noted that volunteer opportunities are available to assist with providing lunch for the trail-building crew. Individuals interested in preparing or purchasing food are encouraged to reach out.

Those interested in volunteering are asked to contact the Atchison County Lake Committee through its social media pages for additional details.

The project is part of ongoing efforts to expand recreational amenities at the lake, too see use grow, with organizers emphasizing the importance of community involvement.

The state reported $988.2 million in total tax collections for the month, which was $12.2 million, or 1.2%, above projections. Collections were also 4.8% higher than in January 2025, reflecting continued growth in several major tax categories.

State officials said individual income tax collections totaled $542.3 million, coming in $7.3 million, or 1.4%, above estimates. Individual income tax revenue increased 8.4% compared to the same month last year.

Corporate income tax collections showed stronger-than-expected performance, totaling $86.2 million. That figure exceeded estimates by $16.2 million, or 23.2%, and represented an 18.1% increase from January 2025.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts totaled $337.8 million for the month. Those collections were $12.2 million, or 3.5%, below estimates and declined 3.2% from January 2025.

In the release, Governor Laura Kelly emphasized the importance of addressing long-term budget stability, noting that recent spending patterns have outpaced revenue growth. The Governor stated that her final budget proposal is intended to correct that imbalance over time and place the state on a more sustainable fiscal path.

(KAIR)--Atchison and Doniphan Counties are remembering Cindy Hoverson, well known locally as both "The Story Lady" and "Miss Cindy," who died January 30. 

According to her obituary, Hoverson, a lifelong rural Doniphan County resident, was 72 at the time of her death. 

"Miss Cindy" was well known throughout the region, with Troy's Harman Rohde Funeral Home notice saying "she leaves behind a legacy defined by faith, service, and a boundless love for storytelling," a love shown, in part, through her years of entertaining and educating children in the two counties as a featured library reader of many years. Additionally, Hoverson, noted in her obituary as "a pioneer in her profession," gained the achievement of being the first Kansan to achieve Level 5 Continuing Education certification from the Kansas State Library. 

Called "a vibrant presence," Hoverson's "dedication to literacy and youth services earned her numerous honors," including Children’s Librarian of the Year, Woman of the Year, Quality of Life Award, USD 409 Friends of Education Award, Mountain Plains Library Association Children’s Librarian Choice Award, Atchison Christmas Parade Grand Marshal, Juneteenth Unity in the Community Award and Honorary Hobo Queen.

"Miss Cindy" also assisted the Atchison Area of Chamber of Commerce in various roles trough the years, including that of trolley driver, tour narrator, and tour script writer, and was involved as a Boys and Girls Scout Leader, Friend of 4-H, and Youth Leader and Sunday School Teacher at Atchison's First Christian Church. She also served as a member on numerous boards and committees, including the Friends of the Atchison Library, the Kansas Library Association, Friends of Kansas Libraries, Atchison Genealogy Society, Atchison and Doniphan County Historical Societies, and the Atchison Rotary Club, among numerous other public service roles. 

Hoverson, whose survivors include 5 children and 4 siblings, will be laid to rest during a graveside service Saturday at Moray Cemetery, in Troy. The burial will follow her funeral service Saturday morning at 10:00 at the First Christian Church in Atchison. 

Newton Colvin/Credit: Atchison Police Dept.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, when 66-year-old Newton Colvin was taken into custody, officers allegedly found him in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Arrested on charges including failure to appear, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia, Colvin was booked into the Atchison County Jail.

Credit: Nemaha Co Sheriff's Office 

(KMZA)-- Wetmore man convicted of child sex crimes has been sentenced to more than sixteen and a half years in prison.

Court documents show 52-year-old Robert Motto Junior was sentenced last Thursday in Nemaha County District Court on one count of rape and one count of aggravated indecent solicitation of a child.

After serving his prison sentence, Motto will be subject to lifetime post-release supervision.

He pleaded no contest to the charges in December as part of a plea agreement.  Prosecutors had originally charged Motto with seven counts in the case.

He was arrested in July of 2024 following an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office into alleged crimes involving three children under the age of fourteen, dating back to April of 2009.

( L-R) Lloyd Wabaunsee and Raven Barber/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--Two Mayetta residents were arrested on drug and firearm charges after authorities found them passed out in a vehicle at a Jackson County intersection.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says deputies were called just before six o’clock Sunday evening to the intersection of 118th Road and U.S. 75 Highway, after a report of a person slumped over the wheel of a Ford Edge.

The caller told authorities he attempted to wake the driver by honking his horn. When deputies arrived, they found both the driver and a passenger asleep inside the vehicle. A deputy reported seeing what allegedly appeared to be a methamphetamine pipe in the driver’s hand.

The driver, 36-year-old Lloyd Wabaunsee, and the passenger, 44-year-old Raven Barber, were taken into custody.

Wabaunsee faces multiple charges, including possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, DUI, unlawful possession and distribution of controlled substances, possession of a weapon by a felon, and no drug tax stamp.

Barber was arrested on charges including possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, distribution of controlled substances, possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, and no drug tax stamp.

Both were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KAIR)--A bill aimed at helping survivors of human trafficking has been signed into law, and a Kansas lawmaker is highlighting its impact.

According to a news release from the office of U.S. Senator Derek Schmidt, the Kansas Republican says the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act strengthens protections for people who were forced into non-violent crimes as a result of being trafficked.

Schmidt is a cosponsor of the legislation, which creates new legal options for survivors whose charges or convictions stemmed directly from their exploitation. The law allows courts to consider vacating certain convictions, expunging arrest records, and applying sentencing mitigation when appropriate.

Under the measure, survivors must demonstrate that an offense was committed as a direct result of trafficking. Relief is limited to non-violent crimes and does not apply to offenses involving a child victim.

Schmidt’s office says the bill builds on anti-human-trafficking efforts he advanced while serving as Kansas attorney general, and reflects a continued focus on treating survivors with fairness, dignity, and compassion.

Trotter was named president of the college-preparatory boarding
high school, in October 2023.

Trotter is credited in the statement for making “many meaningful contributions” during his tenure, with Board Chair Dan Pombo noting that Trotter strengthened relationships with alumni and donors, expanded the academy’s presence in the international boarding community, supported steady enrollment growth, enhanced academic offerings, and oversaw key campus improvements.

The board, in the statement, expressed gratitude for Trotter’s leadership and wished him success in his next chapter, while Pombo emphasized that the leadership transition will not disrupt daily operations at the Catholic high school, saying, “The momentum of the school continues, and our shared mission remains unchanged."

The Board of Directors has begun planning for the future and will launch a nationwide search for the next president for Maur Hill-Mount Academy.  According to Pombo, the board will seek a leader committed to the Benedictine values, mission, and traditions that have guided Maur Hill–Mount Academy for more than 160 years, while continuing to move the school forward.

Pombo thanked families and supporters for their continued trust and prayers, adding that the school will communicate openly as the search process moves ahead.

The County and the Road Department union have been at odds over the contract concerning wages and terms and conditions of employment dating back to June 30, 2023.

At present, the case has been continued by the CIR Court until March 16 and 17.

The County rejected the previous settlement offer from the union to retain all language of the most recent contract and a one-year status rate increase by $2 each year of the contract that would have increased pay as of July 1, 2025 to $26.67 per hour.

Results of Saturday, Jan. 31, Atchison crash. Photo credit: Atchison Police Dept.

(KAIR)--One person is facing charges following a two-vehicle injury crash in Atchison early Saturday morning.

In a release, Police Chief Mike Wilson says officers responded to the intersection of 14th and Kansas Avenue shortly after 12:30.

Wilson says a 2019 Honda pickup truck driven by 42-year-old Joshua Hosier of Atchison was westbound on Kansas Avenue, while a 2001 Toyota Highlander driven by 18-year-old Joshua Campbell, also of Atchison, was southbound on 14th Street. The two vehicles collided in the intersection.

Atchison County EMS treated Campbell and a 21-year-old passenger for minor injuries at the scene, but they were not transported for hospital treatment. Hosier allegedly fled the scene on foot but went to Atchison Police Headquarters a short time later, and was then transported by EMS to Amberwell Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the wreck. Charges against Hosier are pending.

Meanwhile, regarding a separate Atchison crash, Wilson is asking for the public's help locating a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run crash that happened  January 27th. 

The wreck involved one vehicle driven by Nathan Jones of Atchison and a second, unknown vehicle at the intersection of Walnut and L Streets. 

Police are searching for the second vehicle, described only as a small black passenger car. 

Anyone with related information is asked to contact Atchison Police, 913-367-4323.