“Local voices matter, and agricultural producers play an important role in shaping how federal farm programs serve their communities,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam. “With nominations now open for FSA county committees, producers have an opportunity to put Farmers First by ensuring local farmers and ranchers have a voice in program delivery.” ? 

Elections for committee members will occur in certain Local Administrative Areas (LAA). LAAs are FSA committee elective areas in a single county or multi-county?jurisdiction?and may include LAAs that are focused on an urban or suburban area.???? ? 

Producers interested in serving on the FSA county committee can locate their LAA at fsa.usda.gov/coc?and?determine?if their LAA is up for election by contacting their local FSA office.?? 

Agricultural producers may be nominated for candidacy for the county committee if they: ?? 

Participate or cooperate in a USDA program.?? 

Reside?in the LAA that is up for election this year.?????? 

A cooperating producer is someone who has provided information about their farming or ranching operation to FSA, even if they have not applied or received program benefits.??? 

Individuals may nominate themselves or others and qualifying organizations may also nominate candidates. USDA encourages all eligible producers to nominate, vote and hold office.????? 

Nationwide, more than 7,700 dedicated members of the agriculture community serve on FSA county committees. The committees are made up of three to 11 members who serve three-year terms. Committee members play a key role in how FSA delivers disaster recovery, conservation,?commodity?and price support programs, as well as making decisions on county office employment and other agricultural issues.???  

More Information?????? 

Producers should contact their local FSA office today to learn more about their county’s election. To be considered, a producer must sign?an?FSA-669A?nomination form. This form and other information about FSA county committee elections are available at?fsa.usda.gov/coc.???? 

All nomination forms for the 2026 election must be postmarked or received in the local USDA Service Center by the Aug. 3, 2026, deadline. Election ballots will be mailed to eligible voters in November 2026.??? 

Included in the 29 county area to be assessed are Andrew, Holt, Nodaway and Worth counties.

 Beginning Tuesday, June 23, five teams will verify documented damage to determine if Public Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Public Assistance allows local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges and other public infrastructure. Both state and county thresholds would need to be met in order for a county to be included in the request.

Senator Ricketts staff members will be visiting Pawnee County on Wednesday, July 1, making a stop at the Pawnee City Library, located at 735, 8th Street from 1 – 2 p.m.

During the Mobile Office Hours, stops, Ricketts’ staff will be on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs.
If Nebraskans can’t get an answer in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them get in touch with the correct people.

During a stop in Falls City Friday, Stille told MSC News she is introducing herself to voters. Stille was raised in South Sioux City, Nebraska and has 4 children and 5 grandchildren.

She worked for businesses in the agricultural sector says one of her priorities will be listening to the citizens of the 3rd Congressional District.

Stille says representatives need to hear the voices of their constituents and represent their needs.

Stille lives near South Sioux City and says she is ready to fight for Nebraska's farmers and working families and build a movement that fights for lower grocery bills, affordability and lower health care costs.

For more information on Becky Stille go to her website: www.beckystille2026.com.

According to a release from the City of Atchison, 13th Street between Commercial and Main is closed through Friday, June 26th, while Evergy and MGP complete utility upgrades and maintenance at their plant.

The city is asking drivers to use alternate routes and exercise caution in the area as crews finish their work.

Credit: City of Atchison/Facebook

Shortly after 11:00, officers responded to the the 700 block of Kansas Avenue.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, a 2018 Buick Encore, driven by 72-year-old Rhonda Shell of Atchison, was pulling into a parking stall when it struck the boy, who was riding his bicycle through the lot.

The child was transported to Atchison’s Amberwell Hospital by Atchison County EMS for treatment of his injuries.

According to social media posts made by the child's family, his injuries included scrapes & bruises, along with soreness, but is recovering well.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new county-wide community notification system designed to keep residents informed during emergencies.

The platform, known as Hyper-Reach, will continue providing emergency alerts from the Sheriff’s Office while also giving residents the option to receive weather notifications.

Officials say one of the system’s biggest advantages is its ability to send targeted alerts to specific areas of Jackson County. Instead of notifying the entire county about every incident, Hyper-Reach can direct messages only to residents in the affected area.

For example, if an emergency occurs in the southeastern portion of the county, only residents in that region would receive an alert, while those elsewhere in the county would not be notified unnecessarily.

The Sheriff’s Office says the targeted approach will deliver faster, more relevant information to those who need it most while reducing unwanted alerts for residents outside the affected area.

Photo Credit: Seneca Pony Express Museum

(KMZA)--The Seneca Pony Express Museum will be part of the 2026 Kansas Sunflower Summer program, giving eligible Kansas families free admission to explore one of the state's most iconic pieces of history.

Located in Seneca, the museum tells the story of the legendary Pony Express mail service and highlights the community's important role in connecting the nation during the frontier era. Through exhibits and artifacts, visitors can learn about the riders, relay stations, and lasting impact of the Pony Express on the American West.

The Sunflower Summer program provides free admission to participating attractions for Kansas students in Pre-K through 12th grade, along with one accompanying adult. Families can redeem tickets through the Sunflower Summer app during the 2026 season, which runs July 9 through August 2.

Museum leaders say the program offers a great opportunity for families to experience history firsthand, while Kansas Tourism officials say it helps families discover the stories, places, and communities that make Kansas unique.

The Board also voted to approved the preliminary budget for the 2026-27 school year at the same level as the final 25-26 school budget when they met Wednesday evening.

Board members voted to increase the full price lunch and breakfast meals by 10-cents for the new school year. Student lunches will increased to $3.05 and $4.75 for adults.

The students full price breakfast will be $1.90 with the price for adults increasing to $2.50.

Bids were awarded for milk products for the next school year to Hiland. Bread bids were awarded to Gold Star Foods.

An alternative method of instruction plan for the 2026-27 school year was approved as presented.

In other business the Board voted to approve the Student, Parent and Pre-K Handbooks as presented. The Employee Manual with changes was also approved.

Kanza Mental Health, which serves the local Kansas counties of Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, and Nemaha, will use the funding to build a formal partnership with the Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments. The collaboration is designed to expand access to preventative and primary care services, increase health screenings and referrals, and better coordinate behavioral health and public health resources for residents across the region.

Kanza CEO Krista Eylar, in a release, says the partnership represents a new direction for rural care delivery in northeast Kansas, connecting behavioral health, public health, and primary care services under a more coordinated system. Eylar says the goal is not to replace existing providers, but to close service gaps and reduce fragmentation for individuals most at risk.

The grant period runs through the next year, with Kanza and the NEK Multi-County Health Departments working to establish the formal structure of the partnership.

Dr. Joselyn Heiman/Credit: NVCH

(KMZA)--Nemaha Valley Community Hospital has announced an addition to its future medical team.

Dr. Joselyn Heiman, formerly known as Joselyn Schmitz, has officially signed her recruitment agreement with the hospital.

Dr. Heiman is currently committed to completing a three-year residency through the Smoky Hill Family Medicine Residency Program. Once her training is complete, she will return home to join providers at Seneca Family Practice.

Hospital leadership says the agreement represents an important investment in strengthening rural healthcare. Hospital CEO Kiley Floyd emphasized the value of supporting physicians who understand small-town medicine and are committed to serving rural communities long-term. “We are incredibly excited to welcome Dr. Heiman back to our community,” Floyd said. “Investing in providers who understand rural healthcare and have a passion for serving small communities is incredibly important to the future of healthcare at NVCH.”

Hospital officials say they look forward to Dr. Heiman’s return and her future role in expanding access to care in the Seneca area.

Teddy Moore/Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A jury trial has been scheduled in Jackson County for a Topeka man accused of sex crimes involving a child.

Fifty-eight-year-old Teddy Moore pleaded not guilty last month to two counts of rape and two counts of aggravated criminal sodomy after waiving his preliminary hearing.

Court records show a four-day jury trial is now set to begin September 29th in Jackson County District Court.

Moore was arrested in March on a Jackson County warrant following an investigation that began in July 2025 by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Department.

Authorities say the alleged offenses involve a child under the age of 14 and are reported to have occurred in January 2018.

Moore remains in the Jackson County Jail on a one-million-dollar bond.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has approved a pay raise for City Administrator Steve Brooks.

Following an executive session during Wednesday night's meeting, council members voted to increase Brooks' annual salary by $5,000, bringing it to $115,000. Brooks has served as city administrator since June of 2023.

In other action, the council approved hiring two journeyman linemen for the city's Electrical Utilities Department. Troy Lay will earn $48 an hour, while Gary McGuire will be paid $45 an hour.

The council also approved a new employee health insurance package that's to reduce overall premium costs by about 27 percent and tabled action on the purchase of a new fire truck until its next meeting.

(KNZA)--The Jackson County Commission is moving ahead with plans that could significantly extend the life of the county landfill.

During the June 8 commission meeting, Environmental Services Superintendent Darlene Selley and BG Consultants engineer Brian Foster outlined options for expanding the landfill's current construction and demolition waste cell.

Officials say the existing cell has about five years of remaining capacity. However, a proposed vertical expansion could extend that lifespan to roughly 20 years.

The project would involve building a berm and raising the landfill by approximately 20 feet. Foster told commissioners that the Kansas Department of Health and Environment recently identified some water seepage during an inspection, but has approved the proposed expansion. He noted that additional state approval could be required if a new catch pond is needed as part of the project.

Foster, who helped design the landfill's original engineering plan in 2006, said the facility is currently operating in Phase Three of a four-phase development plan. He estimated engineering costs at just over $38,500.

Under the proposal, the county Road and Bridge Department would construct the berm, although officials have not yet determined where the necessary fill dirt will come from.

Commissioners were told that sufficient money is available in the landfill's capital outlay budget to cover the engineering costs.

Commission Chairman Mark Pruett voiced support for the 20-year expansion option, and the commission reached a consensus to move forward with planning for the project.

(KNZA)--Residents of Doniphan County will soon have a chance to own a special piece of history celebrating America's 250th birthday.

The Doniphan County Commission has approved the purchase of 250 commemorative coins marking the nation's 250th anniversary. During Monday's meeting, commissioners announced plans to place raffle boxes at locations throughout the county, giving residents an opportunity to enter a drawing for one of the coins.

The drawing will be conducted by county commissioners, with the 250 winners set to be announced on July 13th.

Residents who are not selected in the drawing will still have the option to purchase a commemorative coin. The county also plans to acquire one numbered coin for permanent display at the Doniphan County Courthouse in Troy.

The commemorative coin program is part of local efforts to recognize the United States' 250th anniversary celebration.

Parking issues between neighbors in the 900 block of Morton Street and a property on East 17th Street that has been deemed a nuisance property has caused unrest among individuals in that neighborhood.

Monday night City Administrator Gary Jorn said the City is trying to work with the property owner Mark Galaska to get the property brought up to standards, noting the recently he and Police Chief Jamie Baker had met with Galaska and reviewed the property explaining further what needs to be done.

During the April 6, city council meeting, Galaska was given two months to clean up his property or was warned the City would come in and do it. Jorn said it appears some progress has been made. No action has been taken by city officials against the property owner at this time.

The street parking issues in the 900 block of Morton Street have come before the Council several times in recent months which has led City officials to look at how many times a topic must be allowed to come before the Council.

Jorn noted the Nebraska Open Meetings Act, requires a government body to allow the public time to speak on topics, at some meetings, but not every meeting, with the Mayor having the authority to set the rules and allotted time for the presentation.

There was no action by the Council on the Morton Street parking issue Monday night.

Ron Kelly who lives in the 1600 block of Fulton Street addressed the Council seeking a restriction on parking on 17th Street and Fulton Street and north of 21st Street on Fulton Street. His concerns were emergency vehicles being able to travel between vehicles parked on both sides of the street. No action was taken.

Council members did approve a an amendment in terms of an agreement with Olsson concerning the contract for a Transmission Line and Substation Planning and Engineering Project.

A Master Agreement work order for the Nebraska Plant Feeder Structure replacement project was also approved with Olsson. The current wooden structure near the power plant will be replaced.

Council members also met in closed session to discuss personnel.

The request includes Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer and Thurston counties. Reported damage included downed power poles and lines, as well as damage to schools, buildings, and roadways. Debris cleanup was significant in some counties following the storms. Emergency shelters were also necessary in areas where individuals had been displaced. Damage estimates now exceed $4.9 million.

In addition to the disaster declaration request, Gov. Pillen has also requested access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides funding to governmental entities, allowing them to rebuild in ways that will reduce or mitigate future disaster losses. Approval would allow the state to apply for such grants.

This is the second federal disaster declaration request that the Governor has made in as many months.

John Calhoon/Credit: County of Atchison

(KAIR)--A late July hearing is scheduled in Atchison County District Court over whether a sitting county commissioner can also serve as a law enforcement officer in a neighboring county.

The case will be heard the afternoon of Wednesday, July 29th.

At issue is whether Commissioner John Calhoon can simultaneously serve as the Atchison County District 2 Commissioner and as Undersheriff of the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker has filed a motion for judgment on the pleadings, arguing the dual service violates a state statute that prohibits a person from holding a county office while also serving as a county commissioner. Calhoon has admitted in court filings that he holds both positions at the same time. Becker contends the facts are not in dispute, and the only remaining question is whether the law bars the arrangement.

Becker has also asked the court to put discovery on hold while the judgment motion is pending, arguing that additional fact-finding is unnecessary since Calhoon does not deny serving in both roles.

(KLZA)--One person is dead after an agricultural aircraft crashed in Holt County, Missouri.

According to the Holt County Sheriff's Office, authorities received an emergency call shortly after 9 p.m. Monday reporting that an Air Tractor crop-dusting plane may have gone down near 34845 Unity Road.

Multiple law enforcement and emergency response agencies searched the area for more than six hours Monday night but were unable to locate the aircraft. The search resumed Tuesday morning, and the plane was quickly found from the air.

Authorities say the pilot, 23-year-old Cael David Schmitz of Preston, Missouri, was found in the cockpit and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Assisting in the search were the South Holt Fire Department, Missouri Department of Conservation, Andrew County Sheriff's Office, Missouri State Highway Patrol, first responders from across the Missouri River in Kansas, and private citizens.

The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the cause of the crash. The Holt County Sheriff's Office and the Holt County Coroner's Office are investigating the death.

(KMZA)--A Seneca woman was injured in a single-vehicle rollover crash this past weekend in Nemaha County.

According to the Nemaha County Sheriff's Office, 26-year-old Emilie Becker was driving north on O Road, south of 136th Road, shortly before 3:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon when she lost control of her SUV on the gravel roadway.

The vehicle rolled after Becker lost control.

Becker was transported to Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka for treatment of unspecified injuries.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission heard concerns Monday from a group of county residents regarding the ongoing bridge replacement project on 240th Road west of Highland.

Residents told commissioners the bridge has been closed for nearly four years, calling the lengthy closure unacceptable and urging the county to complete the project as soon as possible.

The group said it would like to see the bridge reopened by August 1.

Commissioners acknowledged the residents' frustration and thanked those who attended the meeting. They reiterated that the county is continuing to work toward completing the bridge replacement project and reopening the roadway as quickly as possible.

In other business, KANZA Mental Health and Guidance Center CEO Krista Eylar presented the commission with the agency's 2026 mental health services contract and a 2027 budget request totaling 44-thousand-200 dollars.

Eylar also reviewed service caseloads for Doniphan County residents and announced that KANZA has received a grant of more than 1-point-35 million dollars from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The funding will support a partnership with Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments aimed at strengthening rural health care services.

Commissioners tabled action on the 2026 contract and 2027 budget request pending further review during preparation of the county's 2027 budget.

The commission also unanimously approved the appointment of Peggy Libel of Wathena to the KANZA Mental Health and Guidance Center Board of Directors.

A letter of resignation was received from Mayor Novak Tuesday morning and on Wednesday the City Clerk's Office acknowledged receipt of the letter and informed City Council members.

Clerk Kirkpatrick also notified Council President Theresa Westfall that she is now the Acting Mayor of Peru.

Acting Mayor Westfall has called for a special session of the Peru City Council for Monday, June 22nd, at 6:00pm to formally accept Mayor Novak’s resignation.

An attempt to recall Novak launched in October of 2025 failed, falling three votes short of the required number to place the recall on the ballot.

Novak has served as Mayor of Peru since November, 2024.

Further inquiries, may be made by contacting the City Clerk’s office via email or via phone during business hours.

The report indicates an eastbound pickup, driven by a 19-year-old woman from Maryville, Missouri crossed the center line into the westbound lane of traffic making contact with a westbound minivan.

The driver of the minivan, a 47-year-old female and a passenger, a 23-year-old female were both transported by the Atchison Holt Ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in Maryville for treatment of injuries.

The driver of the pickup was not injured.

All of the vehicle occupants were wearing safety device at the time of the wreck.

The Atchison County Sheriff's Department and Fairfax Rural Fire Department both responded to he scene.

With City Public Works Director Trevor Campbell gone to a meeting, City Administrator Gary Jorn outlined the proposal to the Council, noting that following the most recent extended power outage the decision was made to suggest moving forward with the audit.

The high cost is in part because the engineers doing the audit are from Wartsilla which is a foreign company and require their own personnel to do such work. Third party companies used by the City to do work at the power plant are not allowed to do work on the engine.

Getting the engine on line to produce energy has been an issue for the City. Jorn said he thinks there have been multiple issues that have contributed to the problems, including not enough exercising of the machine in the past as is done now, along with a lack of operational knowledge. Jorn said repairs could run into the range of $200,000.

The Council voted 6-0 to move forward with the audit. Council members Derek Leyden and Frank Killingsworth were absent from the meeting.

Kanza Mental Health, which serves the local Kansas counties of Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, and Nemaha, will use the funding to build a formal partnership with the Northeast Kansas Multi-County Health Departments. The collaboration is designed to expand access to preventative and primary care services, increase health screenings and referrals, and better coordinate behavioral health and public health resources for residents across the region.

Kanza CEO Krista Eylar says the partnership represents a new direction for rural care delivery in northeast Kansas, connecting behavioral health, public health, and primary care services under a more coordinated system. Eylar says the goal is not to replace existing providers, but to close service gaps and reduce fragmentation for individuals most at risk.

The grant period runs through the next year, with Kanza and the NEK Multi-County Health Departments working to establish the formal structure of the partnership.

The department replaces vests on a five-year cycle, a nationally recognized standard, with the current vests dating back to twenty-twenty-one.

Commissioners gave the go-ahead during Monday evening's regular Commission meeting.

The 31 vests will be purchased from Point Blank through the State of Kansas body armor contract pricing agreement. Total cost runs just over $31,000-thousand dollars; however, the department was awarded a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice in the amount of just over $11,500, reducing the city's out-of-pocket expense to roughly $19,574 from the equipment replacement fund.

The city had previously budgeted $25,000 for the purchase.

(KAIR)--The west side appearance of Atchison's LFM Park is forever changed following the Tuesday night loss of what was affectionately known as "The Soul Tree." Looking to the future of both the site and wood, a community meeting is now planned for Thursday afternoon. 

The City of Atchison, Wednesday morning, posted to social media that the tree, referred to as "the beloved and ancient Siberian Elm tree," had "succumbed to the windstorm" Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning. Atchison City Manager Mark Westhoff, in an afternoon release, says the tree was felled by the strong winds at 4:05 Wednesday morning.  

Acknowledging the "many residents and visitors who spent time under its branches through the years," the City of Atchison says there will not be a rush to remove the tree; instead, it would, for now, remain where it fell to allow community members to view the longstanding tree one last time. Also, the City says "options for the best ways to keep the trees legacy alive" are being explored, with the post asking for community input. 

Comments to the City's post offer a variety of proposals, from using the tree's wood to construct benches to allowing local artists to utilize it for related projects. 

In his afternoon release, Westhoff said city staff is working "to coordinate with local groups on what to do next with both the site of the Soul Tree and the wood from the tree itself," with a community meeting now scheduled for that purpose Thursday afternoon at 3:00 at LFM Park. The forum, Westhoff says, will serve to discuss ideas from local residents. 

(KNZA)--Brown County Sheriff John Merchant is urging residents to stay alert during the hot and humid weather, warning of the growing danger of heat-related tragedies involving children and pets left inside vehicles.

Merchant says temperatures inside a parked vehicle can become deadly in less than 10 minutes. He notes children are especially at risk because their bodies heat up faster than adults. He also points out that many child deaths nationwide occur when a child is accidentally forgotten in a vehicle, while others happen when children get into parked cars and become trapped.

The sheriff is reminding parents and caregivers to make checking the back seat a routine habit every time they exit a vehicle. He also urges people to watch for signs of heatstroke, including confusion, irritability, nausea, headaches, dizziness, and hot skin.

Merchant is asking the public to stay vigilant in parking lots, garages, and other areas where vehicles are parked. Anyone who sees a child or pet in distress inside a vehicle should contact law enforcement immediately.

He also encourages residents to check on elderly neighbors and those with medical conditions, and to ensure outdoor pets have shade and plenty of water during the summer heat.

(KNZA)--An Elwood man is facing felony charges in two unrelated cases.

Fifty-four-year-old James Marsh Sr. was arrested May 29th by the Elwood Police Department on charges of mistreatment of a dependent adult and aggravated domestic battery.

In a separate case, Marsh also faces a felony theft charge connected to the alleged theft of a riding lawn mower on May 15th.

Both cases stem from investigations conducted by the Elwood Police Department. According to court documents, a preliminary hearing in both cases is scheduled for June 18. 

Marsh is currently being held in the Doniphan County Jail on a $75,000 bond.

(KNZA)--Nemaha County is seeking proposals for the construction of a new EMS building in Seneca.

The Nemaha County Commission, at its June 8 meeting, voted to request bids for construction of an approximately 60-by-80-foot emergency medical services facility at the intersection of 7th and Nemaha Streets.

Proposals must be submitted to the Nemaha County Clerk's Office by noon on Friday, June 26. Bids will be opened during the Commission's June 29 meeting.

The project received a boost in December 2024 when commissioners approved the allocation of $500,000 in ARPA funding to support construction of the new facility.

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

The FBI launched an investigation into the plot and identified a group of conspirators who procured weapons and made plans to carry out the attack.

The FBI made arrests over the weekend in Ohio, Missouri, Nebraska, and California. The investigation remains ongoing.

FBI Director Kash Patel said in a news release that on June 10, FBI and their law enforcement partners became aware of a potential threat to the UFC America 250 event in Washington, D.C. involving individuals outside of the National Capital Region — and thanks to the rapid action of this FBI, our partners, and the Department of Justice in a multi-state operation, multiple individuals are now in custody and allegedly planned attacks were stopped cold.”

According to the charges, Tycen C. Proper, 19, of Danville, Ohio; Bryan Omar Roa, 24, of Calimesa, California; Michael Alan Thomas, 32, of Pinon Hills, California; Daniel K. Eskridge, 32, of Kidder, Missouri; and Abraham Hermosillo Alvarez, 31, of Omaha, Nebraska, conspired to plan and execute a mass casualty event targeting U.S. officials in attendance at UFC Freedom 250 hosted on the White House grounds. The conspirators allegedly planned to deploy drones armed with explosives in and around the UFC Freedom 250 event in order to force an evacuation of the event and then planned to deploy snipers to fire upon “high value targets” within the fleeing crowd.

According to the charges filed in Nebraska, the FBI identified Alvarez as the individual using the name “Shepherd” in an encrypted chat app that was used to plan an attack on the UFC Freedom 250 event.

The FBI assessed that Alvarez, also known as “Shepherd,” was responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the planned attack, based on conversation excerpts in June.

The complaint further alleges that Shepherd provided a picture and directions for a safe zone at an old church in Nebraska. He instructed the other members to take back roads or the river down to the “pick up location.” Later that same evening, Shepherd also provided locations in the area for drone launch points and sniper positions.

If convicted of conspiracy to commit murder, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Conspiracy to commit violence on White House grounds carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison.

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen said in a statement that he is proud beyond words not only that this terrorist is now behind bars, but also that our Nebraska State Patrol provided significant support in the FBI-led operation that took him into custody. Thanking God for the brave men and women of law enforcement everywhere in this country for the work they do to protect the innocent from anarchy and violence.”

Photos from Douglas County, NE. Sheriff's Dept. and U.S. Attorney's Office.

forms and documentation must be filed with their county assessor on or before June 30, 2026.

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 categories of property owners:

• 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 revenue.nebraska.gov/PAD/homestead-exemption.

For more information on the homestead exemption program, please contact your county assessor or DOR at 888-475-5101.

Samples taken last week at the lakes show they measured above the threshold of eight parts per billion of total microcystin, which is a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae.

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert.

Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly by avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water.

Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics, and other outdoor activities.

(KAIR)--The Atchison County Commission, in August, will allow Atchison County voters a choice: fund County emergency services through a dedicated one-cent sales tax or continue funding through property taxes. 

On Monday, June 15, Atchison County Commissioners Casey Quinn, James Campbell, and John Calhoon, were guests of 93.7 FM's Co-Host Monday, where all aspects of the approaching decision were discussed. Hear the full conversation here. The Atchison Co Commission, on June 16, joined 93.7 FM's Co-Host Monday to discuss the approaching sales tax-to-fund-EMS question. Co-Host Monday airs each Monday morning around 7:20, sponsored by Midwest Interior Solutions. 

In fact, so many activities are planned for Saturday, some were left off the already printed schedules due to last minute signups for participation.

Festival Coordinator Jacque Pregont, during her appearance on this week's Amelia Fest Wednesday with the 93.7 FM Morning Petting Zoo, said the addition of the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum in 2023 has allowed for such scheduling.

"I feel like we're really even more coming into our own because I've had people calling and saying, we have this. Can we can we come and be a part of the festival? Before we had the museum, I wouldn't have anywhere to put them. We're pretty much full downtown. We fill everything all the way out to Memorial Hall, down Commercial Street. We don't wanna put too much on the riverfront because we have to have room for people. We have the museum, and we have outside space there. And that's two great days for us out at the museum, very busy days. And so to have more for people to see and do out there is fabulous."
Among the guests coming, but not signed on until after the printing of the schedule, is a Kansas not for profit directly connected with flight. "There's a corporation that has been set up a not for profit in Wichita called the Bleckley Foundation. And Bleckley was in the Air Force, I believe. He flew a plane. His fiancé, when he left for war, had been a roommate of Amelia Earhart's. So that's kind of the tie in," Pregont told MSC Radio, adding that Bleckley "did not come home from the war. But they formed this not for profit, and they're refurbishing the plane like he would have flown and trying to honor him. I think he's the only soldier that received high honors from Wichita, and so they're making this big deal out of it, which it sounds really cool. And they've put together a little pull-down trailer thing with all this exhibit and all that, and they wanna come and I said absolutely. It's so cool because we're all about Amelia but we're also all about flight." 

Also coming, Pregont says, is the Tulsa based Air Force Education Director for the local region of Kansas. "She said, I came up and did girls in aviation day at your museum and just had a blast. Can I come to the festival? And I said, sure. Come on. So she'll have fun stuff for the kids to do too, just like the Bleckleys will as well. They have a lot of interactive things. That's just added to what we've got at the museum, which I think is so exciting. We're getting more and more reasons for people to be here."

For the full lineup of festival events, you can go here.

(KNZA)--The South Brown County USD 430 Board of Education approved school fees for the 2026–27 school year during their regular meeting last week.

Under the approved changes, lunch prices will increase by 10 cents. Also new yearbook fees have been set for Horton Elementary and Horton High School.

In other business, the board accepted several resignations. Those include Beau Gadwood as elementary school physical education teacher; Victoria Crane as middle school/high school vocal music teacher; and Bryan Hirsch as  head baseball coach at Horton High School.

(KMZA)-- Nemaha County has officially taken over dispatch services for the City of Sabetha.

The transition became effective Monday after both the Nemaha County Commission and Sabetha City Commission approved a dispatch services agreement last week.

The agreement was negotiated between the Nemaha County Sheriff's Department and city officials. Under the contract, Sabetha will pay the county a base rate of 88-thousand-70 dollars for calendar year 2026, with the amount prorated monthly. Beginning in 2028, the annual payment will increase by three percent each year to account for inflation.

As of Monday, the Nemaha County Communications Center in Seneca is providing dispatch services for the Sabetha Police Department, Sabetha Fire Department, and Sabetha Ambulance Service. The communications center already handles dispatching for the Nemaha County Sheriff's Office, Seneca Police Department, county EMS, and six rural fire departments.

Sabetha city officials say the move is expected to improve coordination among emergency responders, reduce operating costs, and streamline communications during emergencies.

The Sheriff's Department says non-emergency calls for the Sabetha Police Department should now be directed to 785-334-0120.

Meanwhile, Sabetha residents should continue to contact City Hall at 785-284-2158 for all city business not related to law enforcement.

Jeremy Carson/Credit: Nemaha County Sheriff's Office 

(KMZA)--A Sabetha man who was originally charged with two counts of breach of privacy has entered into a plea agreement in Nemaha County District Court.

According to court documents, 39-year-old Jeremy Carson pleaded no contest last week to three misdemeanor counts of stalking  contained in an amended complaint.

Carson was sentenced to three years in the Nemaha County Jail, but that sentence was suspended. He was instead placed on two years of supervised probation.

Carson was arrested in April following an investigation by the Seneca Police Department.

No action was taken. Sheriff Rick Hardesty was unable to meet with the Board due to other conflicts and was not available for input on the subject.

Commissioners also discussed the possibility of funding health insurance coverage for county employee families.

Third District Commissioners Rick Karas will be researching the matter and provide numbers to review at a future meeting.

Discussion was also held on a request to allow a 4-H club to utilize the Law Enforcement Center shooting range for their “Shooting Sports” practices. The matter will be placed on the agenda during a future meeting.

One of the stops in this cycle of visits will be in Johnson County at the Johnson County Courthouse in Tecumseh on Thursday, June 18th from 10 – 11 a.m.

Senator Ricketts staff will be in the Commissioners Room at the courthouse.

At Mobile Office Hours, Ricketts’ staff will be on-site to assist Nebraskans with their casework needs. If Nebraskans can’t get an answer in a timely manner or feel they have been treated unfairly, Ricketts and his staff may be able to help resolve the issue or help them get in touch with the correct people.

WIBW-TV, citing Jefferson County Sheriff Timothy Bacon, reports the fatal accident happened around 6:00 when two water vessels collided. 

Dead is 22-year-old Olathe resident Hannah Heflin who suffered fatal injuries in the crash. 

Arrested in connection with the deadly accident was 20-year-old Carter Page, taken into custody by officers for the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and facing the charge of vehicular homicide. According to publicly available social media profiles, Page is a resident of Lancaster, in Atchison County. 

Credit: Jefferson Co Sheriff

Following his arrest, Page was booked into the Jefferson County Jail but released on a bond of $5,000. 

Additional details regarding the circumstances of the fatal boating crash have not immediately been made public. 

Photo credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Topeka man was arrested on multiple drug charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County early Sunday morning. 

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, just after midnight, a deputy conducted a traffic stop near 142nd Road on U.S. Highway 75 for an alleged traffic violation.

During the stop, Morse said a probable cause search of the vehicle was conducted, leading to the driver’s arrest.

The driver, 21-year-old Isaac Calabrese, was arrested on charges of possession of cocaine, possession of THC, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Photo credit:  Jackson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--An Oklahoma man is facing multiple drug charges following a late-night traffic stop in Jackson County.

According to Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy stopped a Honda Pilot on U.S. Highway 75, just north of 198th Road, shortly after 10:00 p.m. Sunday for an alleged traffic violation.

During the stop, deputies conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle.

Morse says 34-year-old Darrian Taylor of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma was taken into custody at the scene.

Taylor was booked into the Jackson County Jail on multiple allegations, including possession of cocaine, marijuana, THC, and drug paraphernalia, as well as transporting an open container.

(KNZA)--One person was killed and eight others were injured in a single-vehicle rollover crash Saturday morning on Interstate 29 in Buchanan County, Missouri.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a Ford Expedition driven by a 34-year-old St. Joseph man suffered a blowout of the left rear tire at about 10:40 a.m. The driver lost control, and the SUV traveled off the west side of the interstate before overturning several times and coming to rest on its roof.

The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

The vehicle was carrying 11 people, including the driver. A 36-year-old female passenger suffered minor injuries. The remaining injured occupants were juveniles.

Three girls from Leavenworth, Kansas — ages 16, 14, and 13 — suffered serious injuries. A 10-year-old boy and an 8-year-old girl, both from Leavenworth, along with a 3-year-old girl from St. Joseph, received minor injuries. A 2-year-old girl from St. Joseph suffered moderate injuries. Two infant girls from St. Joseph were not injured.

The Patrol says all the occupants were wearing safety restraints.

Several victims were transported directly to Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. Others were initially taken to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph before being transferred to Children's Mercy.

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

Photo Credit: Meadowlark Extension District 

(MSC News)--The Meadowlark Extension District has announced the hiring of three new 4-H agents who will serve communities across the region.

Abigail Burger joined the staff May 11 and is based in Seneca. Megan Vrbka and Ashtyn Humphreys both began their roles on June 8, serving in Holton and Oskaloosa.

District officials say the new hires bring strong backgrounds in agriculture, education, and youth development, along with personal experience in 4-H.

Burger grew up near Wathena and previously worked in 4-H programming in Brown County after earning her degree from Kansas State University. Vrbka, originally from Nebraska, has experience as an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor, and was active in livestock, leadership, and judging programs. Humphreys, also from Nebraska, holds a master’s degree in agricultural education and leadership and was a longtime 4-H member herself.

All three say they are excited to work with youth and families and help strengthen local 4-H programs across the Meadowlark District.

Michael West/Credit: Jefferson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)-- Jefferson County man convicted in the 2023 beating death of his father is now asking a judge to allow him to withdraw his guilty plea.

Michael West, of Ozawkie, pleaded guilty in April to first-degree murder. That plea canceled a jury trial that had previously been scheduled in the case.

However, court records show West’s attorney filed a motion last week requesting that the court allow him to take back that plea—just one day before he was set to be sentenced.

At the time of sentencing, prosecutors and the defense were both expected to recommend a life sentence, with parole eligibility after 25 years.

In the filing, West says he now regrets accepting the plea agreement. He argues he did not fully understand the consequences of pleading guilty and believes he has potential defenses he wants to present at trial.

Under Kansas law, a judge may permit a defendant to withdraw a guilty plea before sentencing if “good cause” is shown. The decision now rests with the court.

A hearing on the motion is scheduled for July 23rd at the Jefferson County District Court. After that hearing, a judge will decide whether West’s guilty plea will stand or whether the case will proceed to a jury trial.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education has approved updated cell phone and social media policy language for the 2026–27 school year.

The action came during the June 8th board meeting and follows guidance from the Kansas Association of School Boards as the district works to align with a new Kansas law passed during this year’s legislative session.

Under the new policy, students will not be allowed to use or access personal electronic communication devices during the school day on district property, unless an approved exception applies. Devices must be turned off, stored away from students, and kept inaccessible throughout the school day.

The policy also places new limits on staff communication with students. Employees will be required to use approved school communication systems only, with no private contact allowed through social media or messaging apps.

The state law takes effect July 1st, and school districts must be fully in compliance by September 1st.

In other business, the board approved a nearly 143-thousand-dollar bid from Carly Construction of Wamego for roof repairs at the district’s Career and Technical Education building. Members also renewed the district’s insurance policy with SBS Insurance for the 2026–27 school year.

(KLZA) --The Richardson County Commission has declared a state of emergency following a series of severe weather events that caused widespread damage across the county.

Commissioners approved the declaration during their June 10 meeting. The action comes after severe storms on May 16 and 17, a tornado on May 18, and heavy rainfall on June 4 and 5. County officials say the weather events resulted in significant damage to both public and private property, disrupted utility services, and threatened the health and safety of residents in affected areas.

During the meeting, Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. provided an update on road and bridge maintenance efforts. Darveau also informed commissioners that the Martin Marietta quarry near DuBois will remain closed for much of the summer because of flooding.

In response to the anticipated shortage of rock materials, the board recommended the county begin planning to build a stockpile of rock for future road and bridge projects.

Nebraska City Police report 45-year-old Will Neeman was pronounced dead at the scene from an apparent gunshot wound to the chest. A 28-year-old male who has not been identified was transported to CHI St. Mary's Hospital in Nebraska City and then flown to an Omaha hospital with a gunshot wound to the head.

Rescue crews were called to the 1100 block of North 4th Street at approximately 10:30 p.m.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, officers responded around 11:00 Thursday morning to the 1200 block of North River Road after a southbound Jeep SUV struck a semi truck from behind.

Wilson says heavy truck traffic on the gravel road had kicked up significant dust, and the semi driver had slowed to allow a northbound truck to pass when the crash occurred.

The Jeep was driven by 32-year-old Joseph Hunt of Atchison while the semi was driven by 30-year-old Leavy Jones of Kansas City, Kansas.

Atchison County EMS responded and examined Hunt on the scene but he was not transported.

(KNZA)--The annual Pony Express Re-Ride will travel through Kansas Monday, June 15, and Tuesday, June 16, with riders retracing portions of the original trail in a tribute to the routes and riders that helped shape the nation ahead of the U.S. semiquincentennial.

Organizers say the re-ride will cross northeastern Kansas through communities that once served as key links in the Pony Express system. Featured stops include Horton, the Seneca Pony Express Museum, the Marysville Pony Express Museum, and the Hollenberg Pony Express Station near Hanover, described as the only original Pony Express station still standing on its original foundation.

Kansas route highlights include a handoff in Elwood near the St. Joe Bridge Monday afternoon around 3:30, followed by a stop in Horton Monday night around 8:45. Riders are expected in Seneca early Tuesday morning around 2:30, then in Marysville Tuesday morning around 9:15, with the Hollenberg Station stop Tuesday morning around 11:30. A handoff at the Nebraska-Kansas state line is scheduled Tuesday afternoon around 12:30.

The Pony Express operated for only about 18 months, but organizers say it demonstrated rapid, reliable communication across long distances, helping connect the country during a pivotal period. They say the re-ride is carried out by volunteers in a continuous relay, day and night, passing a mochila along the historic route.

Governor Laura Kelly/Credit: state of Kansas

(KNZA)--Two local electric cooperatives have been awarded funding for infrastructure projects.

Governor Laura Kelly on Wednesday announced more than 13-point-7 million dollars in federal and state funding for airport and energy grid resilience projects in 18 Kansas communities.

The funding includes more than 10 million dollars from the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and 3-point-6 million dollars in matching funds from the Kansas Infrastructure Hub and Build Kansas Fund.

Locally, Brown-Atchison Electric Cooperative Association will receive funding for a pole replacement project totaling more than 1-point-27 million dollars, while Doniphan Electric Cooperative will receive support for a substation rebuild project totaling 1-point-75 million dollars.

State officials say the investments will strengthen infrastructure and improve the reliability of Kansas energy systems.

(KMZA)--The City of Sabetha has approved a contract with Nemaha County to provide dispatch services for the city.

The agreement was unanimously approved during Monday night’s City Commission meeting.

Under the plan, Sabetha will transition from operating its own local dispatch center for police, fire, and EMS to relying on the county’s consolidated system.

Emergency dispatch responsibilities will shift to the Nemaha County Communications Center in Seneca. That center already handles dispatching for the Nemaha County Sheriff’s Office, Seneca Police Department, EMS, and six rural fire departments.

City officials say the move is intended to improve public safety coordination, reduce operating costs, and streamline emergency communications.

In other action, the commission approved a charter ordinance raising the transient guest tax from two percent to five percent. The tax is applied to overnight stays at local hotels and motels. The additional revenue will go toward tourism promotion, community events, parks, recreation, and other quality-of-life improvements benefiting both residents and visitors.

The commission also approved the hiring of Jeremy Haverkamp as Director of Operations and Dennis Enneking as Director of Utilities.

Last ,month, multiple counties experienced widespread damage resulting from severe weather May 15-18. Gov. Pillen has issued an emergency proclamation covering Richardson, Nemaha, Gage, Buffalo, Fillmore, Jefferson, Thayer, Thurston and Howard counties. 

The issuing of these proclamations not only allows for the activation of resources, but also the use of the Governor’s Emergency Fund to help cover costs associated with managing the impacts of these weather events.

The most current situation involves a wildfire in Sioux County between Crawford and Harrison. The South Fork Fire has burned nearly 9,000 acres since it was detected Wednesday afternoon. 

That happened Monday, with the unofficial minutes of that day's County Commission meeting saying the Jefferson County leaders voted unanimously to approve the resolution formally declaring a disaster due to the impact of flooding and severe storms that began June 5th.

County Emergency Manager Keith Jeffers brought the resolution before the Commissioners, citing damage from those storms, with the unanimous vote following his presentation.

A local disaster declaration gives county officials expanded authority to mobilize emergency resources and opens the door to requesting state assistance as needed.

Credit: Atchison Co Historical Society

(KAIR)--A once all-but-forgotten aspect of Atchison history will be on display this coming weekend with the opening of the Black Business District Museum one part of the overall local celebration of Juneteenth.

Preserving the history of the once thriving northside district has long been a goal, with the Atchison County Historical Society and its volunteers working to make it a reality, with the City of Atchison, in 2024, signing over related properties for the project.

Atchison artist and genealogist Patty Boldridge has been instrumental in the project, focused on the preservation of the history of the once thriving 100 Black-owned businesses in the district. "It was a wonderful discovery," Boldridge said during a visit to 93.7 FM's Co-Host Monday. "It wasn't until they were going to demolish the buildings. My cousin Angela called me and she said you've got to be at the city commission meeting tonight. That's when we found out that they were going to possibly demolish the buildings and that they were the last of those businesses to be standing because so many had already been torn down. My sister, Sonia Boldridge, and I, we are genealogists."

It was after that Commission meeting, Boldridge says, that research began on the history of the black businesses. "We started digging into just those buildings, and in the process was able to find out that there were all these different black-owned businesses in Atchison. And we have uncovered over 100 black-owned businesses starting in, I believe, the earliest was 1876. I won't say the ending of black-owned businesses, but in its heyday, it would have been in the late sixties. After segregation, that's when things started to change.”

The opening of the Black Business District Museum will happen Saturday afternoon at 2:00, followed by Black History Trolley Tours from 2:30 to 4:00 and 4 to 5:30.

The opening of the museum is one part of the three day Juneteenth celebration which begins Friday, with the bulk of the 20th annual Atchison event taking place at the city's LFM Park.

The museum, which the historical society says is housed in a 1920 structure, is located in the 1100 block of North 7th Street near the park.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha USD 415 Board of Education has organized for the upcoming school year.

During Monday night’s meeting, board members selected new officers for the 2026–27 school year.

Board President Roni Tietjens nominated fellow board member Ryan Patton to serve as the next board president. The board approved the nomination.

Tietjens said she felt it was time to step aside after serving two years in the role and pass leadership on to someone else.

Patton then nominated Griff Howard to serve as vice president, which was also approved by the board.

Patton and Howard will officially assume their roles at the board’s next meeting.

(KNZA)--Authorities are investigating after a body was recovered from Perry Lake Tuesday morning. 

According to Jefferson County Sheriff Timothy Bacon, deputies were called just before noon to a report of a body in the water near the Slough Creek Boat Ramp off Ferguson Road. 

WIBW-TV reports the body was identified as 51-year-old James Meredith of Berryton. Bacon said there were no apparent signs of foul play. 

The investigation remains ongoing. 

Bacon thanked the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jefferson County EMS, the Fairview Fire Department, and Jefferson County Sheriff's deputies for their assistance at the scene.

Photo Credit: Brown County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--Two Hiawatha residents were arrested on drug-related charges early Saturday morning following an investigation by local law enforcement.

According to the Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, Sheriff's deputies and officers with the Hiawatha Police Department were attempting to locate a wanted individual shortly after 12:30 a.m.. While conducting a consent search of a residence, officers reportedly observed suspected illegal drug-related items in plain view.

Merchant said additional consent was granted to conduct a more extensive search for narcotics within the home.

As a result of the investigation, 47-year-old James Scott was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, felony distribution of narcotics, no drug tax stamp, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Also arrested was 37-year-old Allicia Ramirez, who was booked on charges of possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KNZA)--The City of Hiawatha is considering new regulations for the use of e-bikes and motorized scooters within the city limits.

Police Chief Dave Villanueva and City Attorney Andy Delaney presented information on the issue during Monday night’s City Commission meeting.

Delaney explained that under current Kansas law, e-bikes are generally treated the same as traditional bicycles. The state does not have a minimum age requirement or helmet mandate, though some cities across Kansas have adopted their own local restrictions.

City officials noted there have been several incidents in recent years involving e-bikes and motorized scooters in Hiawatha, raising public safety concerns among residents.

The discussion also included the possible regulation of utility vehicles within city limits.

Commissioner Brian Shefferd urged caution, warning against overregulating e-bike and scooter use. Commissioner Tom Martin said basic rules may be needed to improve safety. Commissioner Laura Tollefson said the city should examine how other communities of similar size are addressing the issue.

Villanueva and Delaney will gather additional information, and the issue is expected to be revisited at the next City Commission meeting.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, around 8:20 Friday evening, an officer on patrol stopped a vehicle in the 300 block of North 7th Street after recognizing the driver as 28-year-old Zane Boldridge of Atchison, knowing there were outstanding warrants for him. A passenger in the vehicle, 28-year-old Morgan Brashear of Horton, also had an outstanding warrant. Both were taken into custody.

Boldridge was arrested on a District Court warrant for probation violation, a Johnson County warrant for probation violation, and charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Brashear was arrested on a Leavenworth County warrant for failure to appear in court and charges of possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Later that night, around 11:00, an officer stopped a vehicle at 10th and Main Street for a traffic violation. The driver, 64-year-old Edwin McBratney of Atchison, was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and taken to the county jail.

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

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has approved a zoning change and plats for a new housing development planned west of Bruning Park.

Commissioners voted 4-to-1 Monday night to rezone about three-and-a-half acres from agricultural to multi-family residential use. Commissioner Brian Shefferd cast the lone dissenting vote.

The Commission also approved both the preliminary and final plats for the Villas of Beautiful Maples Project on separate 4-to-1 votes, with Shefferd again voting no. Commissioners authorized the mayor and city clerk to sign the necessary documents.

The Hiawatha Planning Commission had previously recommended approval of the zoning change and plats. Following those meetings, a 14-day protest period drew no objections from adjacent property owners.

The development is planned as a 10-unit duplex project. The preliminary plat outlines general information including lot sizes and utility easements, while the final plat contains the legal descriptions that will be filed with the Brown County courthouse.

In other business, the Commission approved a curb-and-gutter replacement project in the 200 block of North Third Street. J and B Contractors will complete the work at a cost of more than 31-thousand dollars.

(KNZA)--Plans for an ADA accessibility project at the Doniphan County Courthouse are moving forward.

The Doniphan County Commission voted Monday to enter into an agreement with Snyder & Associates of St. Joseph, Missouri, for design and construction engineering services. The contract fee will not exceed 66-thousand-250 dollars.

The county was awarded a state grant of more than 400-thousand dollars last year for a project that would add an ADA-accessible ramp to the south side of the courthouse.

The new ramp would replace the courthouse’s current electrical lift, which has experienced technical problems and weather-related challenges.

Doniphan County will be responsible for more than 84-thousand dollars in project costs.

Commissioners also received correspondence from officers and board members of the Doniphan County Historical Society expressing support for the project, provided it does not affect the integrity of the historic courthouse building.

County Clerk Peggy Franken said the county and the Kansas Historical Society are awaiting a response from the Doniphan County Heritage Commission regarding the project.

Atchison County 2nd District Commissioner John Calhoon/Credit: Atchison County

(KAIR)--A legal fight over whether an Atchison County commissioner can simultaneously hold a law enforcement position in Jackson County is now in the hands of an Atchison County District Court judge.

Atchison County Attorney Sherri Becker filed court documents Friday asking the court to remove John Calhoon from his seat on the Atchison County Commission, arguing his continued service violates Kansas law.

Calhoon, who represents District 2 on the commission, also serves as Undersheriff for the Jackson County Sheriff's Office.

Becker's filing argues that Kansas law prohibits any person holding a county office from simultaneously serving as county commissioner in any Kansas county. The filing further argues that Kansas courts and multiple Kansas Attorney General opinions have consistently concluded that law enforcement officers, including deputy sheriffs and undersheriffs, hold public office and are therefore subject to that prohibition.

Court documents also reveal the Kansas Attorney General previously advised Calhoon directly that the law precluded him from holding both positions and asked him to resign from one of the two. He did not.

Becker is asking the court to rule in her favor on the pleadings alone, without additional discovery, since Calhoon himself does not dispute the facts of his dual service. A separate motion filed Friday asks the court to halt any discovery proceedings until the primary motion is decided.

The case remains pending in Atchison County District Court.

Calhoon is currently seeking election to the commission seat to which he was appointed to fill a vacancy. He’s challenged, in the August Republican Primary, by Atchison resident Randell Vanderweide.

(KAIR)--Atchison's Juneteenth Celebration returns this weekend, and organizers are marking a milestone, celebrating twenty years of Freedom and Unity recognized in Atchison.

The three-day event runs Friday through Sunday, June 12th through the 14th, under the theme "United We Stand."

Friday evening begins the weekend with a co-ed Juneteenth Jump-Off Softball Game at 6:00 at Millard Allen Ball Park at 8th and Riley Street.

Saturday's festivities move to L.F.M. Park at 1101 North 7th Street beginning at 11:00 in the morning, featuring the Juneteenth Freedom Day Parade along two routes, a drill team, trolley tour, live bands, bingo, a cake walk, vendors, and free food and drinks. A highlight Saturday is the grand opening of the Atchison Historic Black Business District Museum. Atchison resident Patty Boldridge, working with the Atchison County Historical Society, has been a leading volunteer for the effort. "I went around and did interviews with the elders in the community. We were able to document certain things throughout the community, and that's really what got me into where we're at right now as far as trying to capture time so they're not lost," Boldridge told MSC News, adding that, "history is something that if we don't document it and capture it, it will be lost for the next generation."

Juneteenth weekend musical performances Saturday include Dow Wee Man at three, Motown Revue at four, Royalty at six, and the Juneteenth DNA Showcase.

Sunday wraps up the celebration back at L.F.M. Park from 11:00 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening, with a non-denominational worship service, the annual car and motorcycle show, pony rides, a petting zoo, a talent show, relay races, and more free food and drinks.

All weekend events at L.F.M. Park are free and open to the public.

(KMZA)--Kansas health officials have lifted the boil water advisory, in place since Saturday, for residents of Goff in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment, on Tuesday, said laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the city's public water supply show no evidence of bacteriological contamination.

The advisory was issued Saturday after the integrity of the city's water storage tank was compromised, exposing the water supply to possible bacterial contamination.

KDHE says all conditions that placed the system at risk are now considered resolved, and the water is safe for normal use.

(KNZA)--Brown County Commissioners have issued a local disaster emergency proclamation following last week's severe storms and flooding.

The proclamation was approved Monday after county officials determined that heavy rainfall and storm activity on June 4th and 5th caused significant flooding across Brown County. Commissioners said the flooding has caused or threatens to cause widespread damage to property and poses risks to public health and safety.

Because of the widespread nature of the storm, the disaster declaration covers the entire county.

County officials are now asking residents, businesses, and other property owners who sustained structural damage to document and report their losses. Damage to buildings, land, and other improvements may help determine whether Brown County qualifies for state or federal disaster recovery assistance, grants, or other relief programs.

Affected individuals and entities are encouraged to submit documentation of storm-related structural damage by email to bremc@brcoks.org. Officials ask that submissions include the heading "June 4-5, 2026 Storm Damage."

Questions can be directed to Brown County Emergency Management Coordinator Brandon Roberts at 913-708-3013 or through the same email address.

(KNZA)--A Marysville man was killed Monday afternoon when a train struck an industrial farm sprayer in northwest Marshall County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 4:40 p.m. on a private drive south of Harvest Road, about a half-mile west of 7th Road.

The Patrol report says 41-year-old Ryan Friedrichs was driving southbound when he failed to stop at a railroad crossing and yield to a westbound Union Pacific Railroad train. The train struck the sprayer on the driver's side, ejecting Friedrichs from the vehicle.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The train's crew members, 60-year-old Ricki Robertson and 40-year-old Ryan Banahan , were transported by ambulance to Community Memorial Healthcare in Marysville with suspected serious injuries.

(KAIR)--Jefferson County property values are up for 2026, though a new state law has significantly reduced the county's personal property tax rolls.

According to the unofficial minutes of the June 1st Jefferson County Commission meeting, County Appraiser Janet Allen presented the 2026 Valuation Report, showing the county now contains 15,518 parcels, an increase of fourteen parcels from last year.

Allen told commissioners that real property appraised valuation is up 5.6% for 2026, resulting in an overall assessed value increase of 5.4% from 2025. More than $30 million of that appraised value is tied to remodeling and renovation activity across the county.

On the personal property side, the picture looks quite different. The passage of a House Bill during last year's legislative session exempted watercraft, golf carts, all-terrain vehicles, and trailers with a gross weight of 15,000 pounds or less from personal property tax rolls beginning this year. As a result, personal property assessed value dropped by more than $2.1 million, a decrease of about 36%.

Allen also noted that real estate staff are back in the field conducting annual parcel maintenance, reviewing building permits, and validating sales.

(KAIR)--Atchison's Juneteenth Celebration returns this weekend, and organizers are marking a milestone, celebrating twenty years of Freedom and Unity recognized in Atchison.

The three-day event runs Friday through Sunday, June 12th through the 14th, under the theme "United We Stand."

Friday evening begins the weekend with a co-ed Juneteenth Jump-Off Softball Game at 6:00 at Millard Allen Ball Park at 8th and Riley Street.

Saturday's festivities move to LFM Park at 1101 North 7th Street beginning at 11:00 in the morning, featuring the Juneteenth Freedom Day Parade along two routes, a drill team, trolley tour, live bands, bingo, a cake walk, vendors, and free food and drinks. A highlight Saturday is the grand opening of the Atchison Historic Black Business District Museum. Atchison resident Patty Boldridge, working with the Atchison County Historical Society, had been a leading volunteer for the effort.

Juneteenth weekend musical performances Saturday include Dow Wee Man at three, Motown Revue at four, Royalty at six, and the Juneteenth DNA Showcase.

Sunday wraps up the celebration back at LFM Park from 11:00 in the morning until 8:00 in the evening, with a non-denominational worship service, the annual car and motorcycle show, pony rides, a petting zoo, a talent show, relay races, and more free food and drinks.

All weekend events at LFM Park are free and open to the public.

(KNZA)--A St. Joseph man was among two people killed in a late Sunday morning crash in northwest Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the crash happened just before noon on U.S. 36 Highway at Missouri Route 33, about two miles west of Osborn in DeKalb County.

The Patrol reports a Saturn Aura, driven by a 42-year-old woman from Chillicothe, was traveling eastbound on U.S. 36 when it struck the towed unit of a northbound Peterbilt semi-truck.

The Patrol says the driver of the Saturn and her passenger, a 43-year-old man from St. Joseph, Missouri were both pronounced dead at the scene. The semi driver, who is from Washington state, was not injured.

It's not known if the victims were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

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

(KMZA)--The Seneca Area Chamber and Downtown Impact, in partnership with the Seneca Free Library, will host a special program titled “Ridin’ Trails and Writin’ Rhymes: Cowboy Culture of Kansas” on Saturday, June 13.

The presentation will take place at 12 noon at the Seneca Free Library located at 606 Main Street. The presentation features nationally known cowboy poet Ron Wilson, who brings Kansas frontier history to life through storytelling, humor, and original poetry celebrating cowboy heritage.

The event is part of Seneca’s annual MuseumFest. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., all five museums in Seneca will be open free to the public. Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, a mobile exhibit from the Children’s Discovery Center, a lunch stand hosted by the Nemaha Central Band, and prize drawings for those touring museum sites.

Organizers say MuseumFest highlights Kansas’ role in shaping cowboy culture, from historic cattle trails to the state’s lasting ranching traditions.

(KNZA)--Voters in Jackson County will decide this August whether to continue funding local road and bridge work through a special sales tax.

County commissioners voted unanimously at their May 26th meeting to place a question on the August 4th primary ballot asking residents to renew the county’s four-tenths of a percent special retailers’ sales tax.

The tax was first approved by voters in 2004 and is set to expire at the end of this year. It currently brings in about 600-thousand dollars annually, which is used to pay for infrastructure projects across the county.

Commissioners had originally hoped to seek voter approval to increase the tax to five-tenths of a percent. However, that plan was blocked after the Kansas Senate failed to pass enabling legislation.

If renewed, the tax would continue funding road and bridge improvements. However, under the current proposal, cities would no longer receive a share of the revenue.

Photo credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)  Topeka woman is facing multiple drug-related charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

According to Sheriff Tim Morse, a Jackson County deputy stopped a Lexus RX around 8:45 Thursday morning after determining the driver was operating the vehicle with a revoked license.

Morse said deputies developed probable cause during the stop and searched the vehicle, where they allegedly found illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia.

The driver, identified as 34-year-old Ashanti Hernandez,  was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine, ecstasy, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, as well as driving while suspended, driving as a habitual violator, and failing to provide proof of insurance.

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

The advisory took effect Saturday after the integrity of the city’s water storage tank was compromised, exposing the water in the tank to possible bacteriological contamination.  

Residents are advised to boil water for one minute before using it for drinking or food preparation, or to use bottled water until further notice.  

The advisory will remain in effect until testing at a certified laboratory confirms the water is safe to drink. Only the Kansas Department of Health and Environment can rescind the order.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Police Department is taking on a larger role in enforcing city nuisance and code violations.

According to a release from Police Chief David Villanueva, the City Commission and city leadership have assigned the department responsibility for enforcing nuisance codes on both public and private property.

The change comes after the retirement of former nuisance abatement officer Janet Jeffery. City Code Enforcement Officer Chad Goben, who now handles permitting, major code compliance inspections, and planning responsibilities, will continue focusing on those duties while police officers assist with nuisance enforcement.

Initially, officers will focus on three areas: junked, abandoned, or inoperable vehicles; grass and weeds exceeding eight inches in height; and the accumulation of trash or debris on properties.

The department may also address other code issues in the future, including dangerous trees, keeping fowl within city limits, and living in recreational vehicles in areas not properly zoned for residential use.

Villanueva says their first goal will be voluntary compliance. Officers will work with property owners and residents to correct violations within timeframes established by city code. If violations are not corrected, notices to remedy the issue may be issued, followed by possible appearances in Municipal Court.

Villanueva says the department's goal is to help neighborhoods maintain the appearance residents desire and to keep Hiawatha beautiful.

(KLZA)--Heavy downpours Thursday evening into the early morning  hours of Friday have led to major flooding along local rivers and creeks.

Friday morning Richardson County Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau Jr. reported a number of roads had been closed due to flooding.
Included was Highway 159 between Falls City and Rulo.
The Preston Road south of Highway 159.
Pony Creek Road, west of Highway 73 south of Falls City.
The State Line Road east and west of Highway 73 south of Falls City.
Some roads along the Muddy Creek north and east of Falls City were closed.
The blacktop south of Rulo going West at the “Y” was also closed.

The water is receding slowly and roads may be reopened.  
Never drive through water over a road.

Rainfall reports ranged from 2.5 inches up to as much 9 inches were reported. 
Sycamore Springs reported 9 inches, over 7 inches was reported in the White Cloud area and numerous reports of 5 -6 inches of rain were reported.

The forecast is calling for a chance of strong storms again late Friday afternoon and into the evening and again on Saturday. 

If you are driving, be aware of the dangers of flooding.  

Photo credit: Jefferson Co Dispatch/Facebook

(KAIR)--Jefferson County's new sheriff is on the job, with a familiar figure in the county's law enforcement community having taken the reigns at the start of this month. 

Timothy Bacon was sworn in June 1st as the new Jefferson County Sheriff, taking over leadership of the sheriff's office after spending his career working his way up through the ranks.

Bacon, of Ozawkie, served the county as a deputy before advancing to patrol division sergeant. According to online records, his career included case investigations, field sobriety testing, and handling domestic calls throughout the county.

A reception welcoming him to the new role was held in Ozawkie prior to his swearing in. 

Bacon fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Sheriff Jeff Herrig. Herrig began his role as County Sheriff in 2008, first appointed and later elected to continue serving in that position until his retirement took effect on May 30, ending his 43-years of overall law enforcement service. 

Photo credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KAIR)--Flooding in Jackson County triggered two separate water rescues Friday morning, and officials are warning drivers to stay off damaged and flooded roads throughout the northern part of the county.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, crews, around 2:55 Friday morning, first responded to US-75 at Muddy Creek after reports of a person in the water. Floodwaters had overtaken the highway north of the bridge, with a truck and fifth wheel trailer and a passenger car in the east ditch. Both drivers climbed onto the trailer as water continued to rise, eventually moving to the gooseneck section as the deck flooded beneath them.

Netawaka Rural Fire District 6, Holton Fire, Sabetha Fire, Soldier Township Fire, and Topeka Fire all responded, along with a swift water rescue team from Shawnee County. The Sabetha team successfully pulled both people to safety, with Topeka Fire assisting on the second rescue. Jackson County EMS evaluated both patients on scene.

Less than four hours later, Sheriff Morse says responders were called to another vehicle swept off the roadway. Around 6:30 Friday morning, a woman was swept off Q.4 Road just north of Elk Creek and south of 238th Road. Holton Fire, Jackson County EMS, Holton Police, and the Jackson County Sheriff's Office responded. Fire personnel rescued the woman from her vehicle. No injuries were reported.

Q.4 Road has since been closed by the City of Holton and Jackson County. Sheriff Morse says many county roads in northern Jackson County have sustained significant damage and some have been completely washed out. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways entirely.

Photo Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Parsons man has been arrested on a weapons charge in Jackson County.

Sheriff Tim Morse says deputies responded shortly after 2:30 Wednesday afternoon to a report of criminal trespassing in the 11-thousand block of 174th Road. The caller reported that several individuals were camping on the property without permission.

During the investigation, deputies arrested 22-year-old Joseph Alcantar on a charge of criminal use of a weapon.

Alcantar was booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Photo Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--A Topeka man is facing charges in Jackson County after a traffic stop in Holton.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy stopped a Ford Expedition shortly after 1:20 Wednesday afternoon in a convenience store parking lot near Fourth Street and Arizona Avenue.

The driver, identified as 35-year-old Andrea Watson, was found to be allegedly driving with a suspended license.

During the investigation, authorities also determined Watson was allegedly in violation of the Kansas Offender Registration Act.

Watson was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on allegations of violating the Kansas Offender Registration Act and driving while suspended.

Photo Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Topeka man was arrested on drug charges early Wednesday morning in Jackson County.

Sheriff Tim Morse says a deputy was checking on the welfare of an unconscious man found inside a parked vehicle near Mayetta shortly before 8:00. During the investigation, the deputy discovered the man had an outstanding warrant from another county.

Morse says a sheriff’s K-9 alerted to the vehicle, leading to a probable-cause search. Suspected  methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia was discovered.

Forty-three-year-old Michael Lee Davis was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on allegations of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Photo Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--Two Sabetha residents were arrested last week after a Jackson County Sheriff's deputy investigated a vehicle parked at the Jackson County Courthouse.

Sheriff Tim Morse says the incident happened shortly after 11:30 on May 26th. The vehicle's registered owner was required to register under the Kansas Offender Registration Act because of a previous drug conviction.

Morse says a sheriff's office K-9 conducted a free-air sniff around the vehicle and alerted deputies to the possible presence of illegal narcotics. A search of the vehicle followed, resulting in two arrests.

Forty-nine-year-old Christina Ann Armstrong , the vehicle's owner and driver, was booked into the Jackson County Jail on allegations of violating the Kansas Offender Registration Act, possession of THC, possession of drug paraphernalia, and disorderly conduct.

Also arrested was 62-year-old Kirk Alan Teske. He was booked on allegations of possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia.

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council accepted several retirement resignations and approved two appointments to the Seneca Free Library Board of Trustees during its meeting Wednesday evening. Council members Steve Bennett and Kris Enneking were absent.

The council accepted the retirement resignations of Cathy Enneking, Bruce Hermesch, and Jim Lueger. To fill two of the vacancies on the library board, council members appointed Samantha Boeding and Tony Scism.

In other business, the council approved a special event cereal malt beverage license for the American Legion Riders Chapter 21 American Freedom Festival, scheduled for Saturday, July 11, at Seneca City Park.

The council also approved an increase in umpire pay rates. City Administrator Steve Brooks said most umpires travel from outside the city, and the adjustment reflects rising fuel costs. Umpires are paid through local ball associations and reimbursed by the city.

Brooks also provided updates on the proposed new water treatment plant and ballfield projects. He reported that representatives of Midwest Engineering presented a flow design and conceptual site plan for the new water treatment plant on May 28. As part of the project, Brooks said a portion of Pioneer Street will need to be vacated.

(KMZA)--Two Republicans will compete for the First District seat on the Nemaha County Commission this election cycle.

According to the Nemaha County Clerk's Office, incumbent Commissioner Ben Glace of rural Sabetha has filed for re-election and will face a challenge from fellow rural Sabetha Republican Edwin Steinlage.

No Democratic candidates filed for the position, which is the only county office on the ballot this fall.

Glace has served on the commission since January of 2023 and is seeking another four-year term.

Monday marked the candidate filing deadline.

Voters will decide the Republican nomination in the August 4 primary election. The general election is scheduled for November 3.

According to a statement released by the office, the new weekday hours will be 8:30 to 4:30 and are set to begin Monday, June?15. New title work will not be accepted after?4:00 Monday through Friday afternoons.

The release notes the adjustment is intended to make end?of?day procedures more efficient and bring local hours in line with those of the Kansas Department of Revenue.

Questions or concerns should be emailed to the the County Clerk or call 913-804-6050.

The USD 377 board has been working from a facilities improvement plan built around a 2024 assessment that identified $3.2 million in immediate needs. The district has been working through those projects using Capital Outlay funds, with a goal of completing everything on the list by 2035.

Items still ahead on that plan include replacing roofs at both the junior-senior high and elementary schools, installing an ADA compliant playground surface, converting the little gym into 2 classrooms, resurfacing the Circle Drive, and replacing windows at the high school.

One major issue not included in the original facilities assessment is the junior-senior high school's 8-lane rubber surface running track. The track has been in place since 1998 and resurfaced multiple times, most recently in 2020. Three separate companies evaluated the surface and all 3 reached the same conclusion: the foundation has deteriorated to the point that any repair would be a temporary fix at best. All 3 recommended a complete rebuild from the foundation up, at a cost of just under $1 million.

On May 13th, after more than 3 months of deliberation, the board passed a resolution requesting authority for 2 additional mills of Capital Outlay for a period of 10 years. Those 2 mills would fund a lease purchase to fully rebuild the track while keeping the broader facilities improvement plan on schedule.

Word of the board’s goal came through a letter intended for parents and patrons of the school district.

(KNZA)---The field of candidates is now set for a number of local races in Brown and  Doniphan Counties following Monday’s filing deadline.

In Brown County, 1st District Commissioner Richard Tesoriero of Hiawatha, a Republican who was appointed last year, will run unopposed in his bid to retain the seat. Also unopposed is Emily Kloepper, a rural Hiawatha Republican, who will seek to remain Register of Deeds through a term expiring in January 2029.

A contested race is set for mayor of Hiawatha, where city commissioner Brian Shefferd will challenge incumbent Becky Shamburg. For Hiawatha City Commission Seat One, Mitch Bruning is running unopposed for the position currently held by David Middendorf, who did not seek re-election.

In Fairview, mayoral incumbent Ronald Rettele faces a challenge from Jessica Ann Homan. Two candidates are also competing for two open city council seats, with incumbent Douglas Bletcher and Jesse Davis on the ballot.

In Doniphan County, three Republican candidates are in the race for 1st District County Commissioner: incumbent Timothy Collins, along with Roger Hopkins and Ben Leatherman. 

Voters will head to the polls for the primary election on August 4th, followed by the general election on November 3rd.

(KNZA) Doniphan County residents will have an opportunity to dispose of unwanted tires during a county tire collection event on Saturday, June 6th.

The collection will be held from 7:30 a.m. until noon at the Second District Road Shop in Troy.

County officials say the first 10 passenger tires per resident will be accepted free of charge, excluding tires mounted on rims. Fees will apply for additional tires.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the collection program. Discarded tires can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other pests. Officials say proper tire disposal helps reduce those problems while also improving the appearance of  the county as a whole.

Price had served Ford County Fire and E-M-S with loyalty and dedication since September of 2018.

Governor Kelly says Price's commitment to serving Kansans as a firefighter and paramedic in communities across the state will not be forgotten, and she extended her condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.

Flags at all state buildings will be at half-staff Thursday in his memory.

The Atchison Historic Black Business District Museum is set to open June 13th and 14th at 1115 North 7th Street, across from the ball court at LFM Park, timed to coincide with Juneteenth 2026. But to make the exhibit as complete as possible, organizers need items in hand before the week is out.

They are looking for photos, articles, ads, calendars, fans, and any promotional items carrying the name of a Black-owned Atchison business. Flat items must be brought to the Atchison County Historical Society Museum by this Friday for scanning and printing. Three-dimensional items will be displayed in glass showcases.

Organizers stress they are not asking for permanent donations for the opening weekend, though permanent donations are always welcome.

If you have something to share or want more information, contact Ree Greenwood at (913) 360-3538, Sonja Boldridge at (816) 518-8214, or Steve Caplinger at (913) 367-6238.

The proclamation, read aloud by Mayor La Rochelle Young, recognizes Juneteenth National Freedom Day as the most recognized African-American holiday observance in the United States, noting it has been observed for more than 160 years.

The proclamation says Juneteenth commemorates the day freedom was proclaimed to all slaves in the south by Union General Granger on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, more than two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. It was officially recognized as Juneteenth Independence Day by the President and Congress of the United States on June 17, 2021.

The proclamation also notes that Americans of all backgrounds share a common love of and respect for freedom, and that Juneteenth, alongside the Fourth of July, completes what it calls the cycle of freedom for America's Independence Day observances.

Atchison's annual celebration of Juneteenth, marking 20-years since it began in 2006, will happen over three days later this month.

The three-day event runs Friday through Sunday, June 12th through the 14th, under the theme "United We Stand," with much of the activity again planned at the city's LFM Park, which has undergone an overhaul since last year's celebration.

The Kansas Department of Commerce recently completed a final monitoring visit for the improvement project, determining the city is in full compliance with state and federal requirements. The letter stating that, dated May 22nd, was included in Monday's Atchison City Commission agenda packet.

The project, funded through a Community Development Block Grant, reached approximately one hundred percent of construction activity after 33 months. According to the monitoring report, the project benefited 319 persons in the target area, with more than 84-percent classified as low or moderate income individuals. Improvements include installation of a splash pad, picnic pavilion, basketball court lighting, and accessibility enhancements.

The city had requested and expended more than $412,000 of the $414,380 dollars in grant funds allocated to the project.

(KNZA)--Brown County’s Patriot Banner Project has completed its first phase, filling all 40 banner locations around the courthouse square.

The banners will honor local veterans and active-duty military members and are expected to be displayed by the Fourth of July.

The project, launched by the Brown County Commission last month, allows residents to sponsor personalized banners recognizing family members and loved ones who have served.

The 40 banners will be displayed on the 20 lamp posts surrounding the courthouse square, with two banners per post.

With Phase One complete, planning is already underway for a second phase. County Commissioner Richard Tesoriero says the City of Hiawatha is interested in expanding the program to additional light poles, creating more opportunities for residents to participate.

Those interested in future banner sponsorships are encouraged to contact Commissioner Tesoriero. Contact information is available on the Patriot Banner Project form posted on the Brown County website.

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha teenager is facing multiple charges after an early morning vehicle pursuit Tuesday.

According to the Hiawatha Police Department, Officer Austin Coffelt was conducting traffic enforcement in the 400 block of South First Street at about 3:10 a.m. when he observed a vehicle traveling above the posted speed limit.

The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the driver allegedly failed to yield to emergency lights and siren, leading police on a pursuit. During the chase, authorities say the driver committed more than five separate moving violations.

The driver, identified as a 14-year-old Hiawatha resident, was ultimately taken into custody. The juvenile’s parents were notified and responded to the police station.

Police have requested charges through the Brown County Attorney’s Office, including felony fleeing and eluding law enforcement, speeding, stop sign violations, and turn signal violations.

The juvenile was transported to juvenile detention following the arrest.

Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact the Hiawatha Police Department at 785-742-2156.

If there was an increase or decrease from the 2025 assessed valuation of a real property parcel to the 2026 assessed value, the county assessor was required to send a notice of valuation change to the property owner on or before June 1, 2026.

If a change of valuation notice was not received, and there was

a change in value from 2025 to 2026, contact the local county assessor for more information.

If a property owner disagrees with the assessed value, whether or not a notice of valuation change has been received, a protest may be filed with the county board of equalization. The valuation protest may be filed in person, by mail or through email with the county clerk in the county where the property is located.

Requirements for filing a protest are on the Notice of Valuation Change. All real property protests are required to be completed using either Property Valuation Protest Form 422 or Form 422A.

For more information regarding filing a protest, please contact the county clerk where the property is located

Photo credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--A Hoyt man was arrested early Saturday morning on drug-related allegations following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says a deputy stopped a Ford F-150 pickup shortly after 2:30 along U.S. Highway 75 near 110th Road for an alleged traffic violation.

Morse says 59-year-old Michael Moore was taken into custody.

Moore was booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of THC, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Filing for election to seek the 2nd District County Commission seat is Democrat John Settich whose release announcing his candidacy describes him as a first-time candidate who brings 28-years of involvement in Democratic politics and community service causes, as well as 25-years of teaching politics and government at the college level, including years spent as Chair of Political Science at Benedictine College.

Settich, shortly after Monday's filing deadline, released a Youtube video describing his candidacy.

The 2nd District Commission seat is currently held by Republican John Calhoon, appointed early this year to fill an unexpired term. Having now filed for election to the seat, Calhoon is also challenged by a member of his own party, with Republican Randell Vanderweide filing for election as 2nd District County Commissioner.

Calhoon's ability to hold the position has been challenged through a lawsuit filed by the Atchison County Attorney. The filing alleges he's ineligible to simultaneously serve as both commissioner and Jackson County Undersheriff. The case is making its way through the legal process.

Also filing for Atchison County Commission prior to Monday’s deadline was Democrat Charles Perdue, a former Atchison City Commissioner who now seeks the 1st District County Commission seat. It's currently held by Republican James Campbell, an appointee to the seat who did not file to seek election. However, another Republican, Katherine Kohler, has also filed to seek the role.

Meanwhile, 63rd District State Representative, Dr. Allen Reavis, has gained a challenger.

According to the Kansas Secretary of State, Democrat Adam Booth has filed to run for the seat held by the Republican Reavis.

Booth is listed as a resident of Wathena in Doniphan County.

The Kansas Primary Election is set for August 4 followed by the November 3 General Election.

Organizers say the America 250 Atchison Celebration kicks off early Saturday morning, July 4th, with a free community pancake breakfast from 7:45 until 10:45 that morning. Steve Johnson, marketing director for Benedictine College says a come-and-go open house at the new Benedictine College Library, inspired by Independence Hall, runs from 9 that morning until noon.

That afternoon, a Downtown Patriotic Parade begins at 4:00, with lineup beginning at 10th and Commercial at 2:00 that afternoon. Atchison Mayor La Rochelle Young says entrants are being accepted now to take part in one of the parade categories.

At 5:00 on the July 4th evening, food, inflatables, and music get underway along the Riverfront, with the Garin Noland Band performing from 5 until 7, followed by the Soca Juke Box Band from 7:15 until 9:15 that evening.

All day long, historical reenactors from the Lewis and Clark Discovery Expedition of St. Charles, Missouri, will be camped at Atchison Riverfront Park, sharing the replica keelboat and stories of American history. The newly refurbished Forest of Friendship, with new walkways and signage, will also be open throughout the day.

The evening closes with a patriotic drone show at 9:30, followed by fireworks over the Riverfront at 9:45.

Organizers say flags are still available at the Santa Fe Depot and local businesses. More details can be found here .

Photo Credit: KS Teachers Hall of Fame

(KNZA)--A longtime Brown County educator will be inducted into the Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame.

Darlene Rake, of rural Horton, is among eight educators selected for induction during a ceremony Saturday, June 6th, in Dodge City. Rake was the only nominee from northeast Kansas chosen for this year's Hall of Fame class.

Rake spent 30 years in education--including 28 plus years teaching  in the Hiawatha Public Schools of USD 415.   Beyond that, she also spent many years as a substitute teacher.

To be eligible for nomination, candidates must have been certified K-through-12 teachers in Kansas for at least 25 years. Rake was nominated in March by members of the Brown County Kansas Association of Retired School Personnel.

She was selected for the honor in recognition of her lifelong commitment to student achievement and her contributions to education and the community.

The Kansas Teachers Hall of Fame, established in 1977, was the first state-level hall of fame in the nation dedicated to the teaching profession. More than 450 educators have been inducted over the years.

(KNZA)--The field of candidates is now set for several local races in Jackson County, and one contest will require a primary election to narrow the field.

According to the Jackson County Clerk's Office, four candidates filed by Monday's deadline for Position Five on the Holton City Commission. Those candidates are Darlene Selley, Shawn LeHotta, Jason Murphy, and John Lemon.

Because four candidates are seeking the seat, a primary election will be held on August 4th. The top two vote-getters will advance to the November 3rd general election. The position is currently held by Marilyn Watkins, who did not file for re-election.

In another Holton City Commission race, incumbent Tim Schlodder will face challenger Mark Davis for Position Three. City Commission races are nonpartisan.

Meanwhile, First District Jackson County Commissioner Mark Pruett has filed for re-election to a four-year term. Pruett is being challenged in the Republican primary by fellow Holton resident Doug Fisher.

The winner of that August Republican primary will face no Democratic opposition in the November general election.

The primary election is scheduled for August 4th, with the general election set for November 3rd.

The Missouri Highway Patrol reports a Semi truck driven by a 38-year-old man from Graham, Missouri was northbound on Interstate 29 and was exiting on the ramp leading to Highway 59, approximately a mile east of Craig, Missouri.

A motorcycle operated by the Mound City man was westbound on Highway 59.

As the semi entered the intersection and attempted to turn west, it failed to yield to the motorcycle.

The motorcycle attempted to avoid the semi, began to skid and struck the trucks front on the passenger side, ejecting the motorcycle operator.

The driver of the motorcycle was transported by the Atchison Holt Ambulance to Mosaic Life Care hospital in St. Joseph for treatment of what were described as moderate injuries.

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

Summer EBT is available to families with eligible school-age children to help them buy groceries during the summer months. A one-time payment of $120 will be issued for each eligible child, covering the summer period.

To align with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Summer EBT benefits can no longer be used to purchase soda or energy drinks, beginning this year.

The first issuance is sent to students receiving public assistance benefits through participation in SNAP, Aid to Dependent Children Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations, or an income-based Medicaid program.

Additional issuances will include eligible children as reported by school districts and any new eligibility determinations through public assistance benefits and Summer EBT applications.

Summer EBT cards will be mailed to eligible families using their registered address with DHHS or their child's school. Cards may take up to 10 business days to arrive in the mail. Once families receive the Summer EBT card, it must be activated using the instructions mailed with the card.

Eligible families will have 122 days, or four months, to use Summer EBT benefits. The 122-day count begins the day after benefits are issued. If benefits are not used within 122 days, funds will be returned to the federal government and cannot be reissued.

Summer EBT benefits can be used to purchase food at any location that accepts SNAP EBT, including grocery stores, online food retailers, and farmer's markets.

For questions regarding Summer EBT, call 800-383-4278, option 5, or email DHHS.SEBT@nebraska.gov.

Superintendent Korey Miles presented a preliminary budget report, noting that with one month remaining in the current budget cycle, the district has received 95% of its projected revenue.

The Superintendent noted that revenues are lower due to less sales tax and lottery / gaming money coming in.

The Board approved hiring Jennifer Daniels as a Speech Pathologist in the district the the 2026-27 school year and Matthew Prussman as the ACES Social Worker for the next school year.

Contracts for non-certified personnel were approved along with extra duty contracts for the next school year.

It was also noted during the meeting that work has started on the gymnasium floor to ensure the bleachers pull onto the floor smoothly and without issue.

Options for a new phone system are being researched and research on finding a carrier to provide Board paid life insurance for all staff member is underway. The current life insurance provider will no longer be available.

A new policy has been agreed upon to provide each staff member with a $10 thousand policy with $20 thousand dollar accidental death coverage.

Richardson County was within the residential class of real property at 95% of actual or fair market value, commercial class of real property at 100% of actual fair market value and agricultural and horticultural land class of real property is 70%.

In 2025 the percentages were 93% for residential property, 95% for commercial property and 75% for ag and horticultural property.

All of the percentages fell within the state allowed ranges for the valuations.

Commissioners appointed County Clerk Mary Eickhoff as the budget-making authority for Fiscal Year 2026-27.

The Board also designated MIPS, a Nebraska software support service company to print the postcard notices for the Joint Public Hearing if needed in September concerning valuations.

A quote for the 3-year licensing agreement for Microsoft programs for the county computer systems in an amount of $10,140 and a quote of $8,796 from Meraki security licensing and support for 3 years along with replacement parts and switches for the county computer systems were approved.

Following the review of a claim submitted May 14th from gWorks for $21,225 for an early termination fee for Emergency Management Tab, Assessor's Tab and for annual support, Commissioners voted to deny the payment.

BPW General Manager Ray Luhring noted there are some minor challenges that are being handled by management and the crew.

The Board also received the 2025 audit report from Julie Bauman, CPA.

Bauman reported that the audit went well and that the Auburn BPW is in good financial position with no findings requiring attention.

A report from Wichita State University in regards to Auburn's Drought Contingency Plan included recommendations, many of which are currently being handled. The BPW plans to continue to work toward an upgraded plan.

Nemaha County Emergency Management Director Renee Critser addressed the Board, expressing gratitude for the rapid response from the BPW in regards to the severe storm damage that devastated the Auburn Community on May 18, noting that clean up is approximately 30% completed.

Sunday evening shortly after 8 p.m. firefighters were called to 1102 Wilson Street to a trailer house owned and occupied by Donald Murphy.

Murphy was on the front porch when a neighbor called in that the north back porch steps were on fire.

Two attack lines were deployed to knock down the fire quickly and exhaust fans were used to pull the smoke out of the trailer.

Metal from the skirting was removed in two locations and part of the bathroom floor to investigate the fires travel path.

The cause of the fire has been declared undetermined.

Four fire trucks, 16 firefighters, the Falls City Volunteer Ambulance Squad, Falls City Police Department and Falls City Utility Department and Richardson County Emergency Management all responded to the call.

Emergency Management assisted in finding housing for the residents overnight and provided transportation.

On Thursday, May 28, a fire was reported at 2121 Harlan Street at approximately 11p.m.

A second-floor apartment was fully involved prior to the arrival of firefighters.

A Richardson County Deputy Sheriff was driving by and saw the flames and stopped to assist with getting residents out of the five apartments.

Falls City Rural Fire Department members made a quick entry along with the Falls City Volunteer Fire Department to knock down the fire. Firemen monitored the exterior of the building for fire extension and power was cut off for the apartment involved.

One resident was taken by private vehicle to Community Medical Center for unknown causes and one fireman was treated at the scene for possible smoke inhalation.

It appears that misuse of smoking materials may have been the cause of the fire.

The apartment building is owned by Eddie and Debra Harris.

The estimated loss is in the neighborhood of $50 thousand.

Falls City Volunteer Fire Department Public Information Officer Jon McQueen noted that first responders appreciate local citizen's cooperation to stay back and give them room as large supply hoses are used to supply water and many units need to get close to the fire scene.

Photo credit: Amberwell

(KAIR)--Cancer patients in northeast Kansas who currently face lengthy drives for treatment may soon be able to receive care close to home, as Amberwell Health and Mosaic Life Care announce a clinical collaboration to bring cancer treatment to Atchison.

In a joint release, the two health systems announce the launch of Amberwell Cancer Care, a new program that will bring chemotherapy, infusion therapy, and onsite oncology clinic appointments to Atchison and the surrounding region for the first time. The program is expected to welcome its first patients by early 2028.

The release says Amberwell Atchison will own and operate the new program, while Mosaic will supply the oncology physicians and clinical direction. Clinical oversight will be provided by Mosaic Medical Director of Oncology Dr. Rony Abou-Jawde, who has served the region for more than 20 years, and Dr. Vinay Gupta, who currently provides onsite infusion care in Atchison.

Amberwell Cancer Care will be housed in a new two-story, 20-thousand-square-foot addition to the Amberwell Atchison campus, which will also expand rehabilitation services and add specialty clinic space. The building is planned to open in 2027.

The release also announces the launch of Building Hope, a two-million-dollar capital campaign to support construction and equipment for the addition. More information is available at amberwellhealth.org/building-hope.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha-based KANZA Mental Health & Guidance Center has been awarded nearly $1.4 million through the Kansas Rural Health Transformation Program, part of a statewide effort to strengthen health care access in rural communities.

The grant, totaling $1,354,975, was announced Friday by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment as part of $79.1 million awarded to 39 hospitals and health care providers across Kansas. KANZA serves residents in Brown, Doniphan, Jackson, and Nemaha counties.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran praised the program, which he helped establish through federal legislation, saying the funding will help rural providers modernize technology, expand services, and improve health outcomes.

Kansas received the sixth-highest allocation nationwide and is expected to receive about $1 billion through the program over the next five years. State officials say the investments will strengthen rural health systems, improve access to care, and support long-term sustainability for providers serving Kansas communities.