Algae file photo 

(KNZA)--A public health advisory is in effect for Hiawatha City Lake due to the presence of blue-green algae.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks issued the advisory Friday.

Hiawatha City Lake is among 11 Kansas lakes currently under a watch status. Also on the list are Pony Creek Lake north of Sabetha and Elkhorn Lake near Rafters Park in Holton.

Under a watch, direct contact with the water should be avoided, especially near visible algae blooms. Fish should be cleaned thoroughly with potable water, and only the fillet portion should be eaten.

The advisory will be lifted when algae levels and toxin concentrations fall below the watch thresholds.

(KNZA)--The proposed 2026-27 budget for the Hiawatha School District remains below the revenue neutral tax rate.

The USD 415 Board of Education approved the $20.3 million budget for publication at its August 12th meeting.

Superintendent Kyley Gatz says the estimated tax rate is 49.355 mills, the same as last year and slightly below the revenue neutral rate.

The budget includes a decrease in bond and interest mills, an increase in the local option budget to 33 percent, and an increase in the capital outlay levy.

The district expects to collect more than seven million dollars in property taxes.

The board will consider adopting the budget following a public hearing September 9th.

Photo credit: Atchison County Emergency Services/Facebook

Two Atchison County rescue technicians and two Missouri Highway Patrol troopers were recognized last week for their role in a Missouri River rescue that saved a man and two children.

According to a release from Atchison County Chief of Emergency Services Corey Scott, the honorees are Atchison County Rescue members Guy Galley, Junior, and Johnny Acheson, along with Missouri Highway Patrol Corporal Nick Greiner and Sergeant Kurt Schmutzler.

Scott says that on July 18th, Atchison County Emergency Services was on safety standby for the annual Amelia Earhart Festival, with Galley and Acheson assigned to patrol the Missouri River in Rescue Boat One.

During that patrol, a woman contacted rescue staff to report that a man and two children were in the water and in distress. Galley and Acheson responded to the area and located the victims, then developed a plan and notified the Missouri Highway Patrol boat also assigned to the event, staffed by Greiner and Schmutzler.

The release says that in a coordinated effort, all of the victims were pulled to safety, with Sergeant Schmutzler entering the water to reach one of the children.

Scott writes that due to the training, dedication, and skill of the rescue members and troopers, that family is complete today, adding that Atchison County EMS and Rescue is staffed with dedicated professionals, and that this type of effort and success is due to the whole team.
 

(KAIR)--A 71-year-old Atchison man is facing an aggravated assault charge following a disturbance at a fast food drive-thru.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, Ross Low is identified as allegedly making the threat and faces a charge of aggravated assault.

According to Wilson, officers, around 5:40 Thursday evening, responded to a disturbance in a drive-thru at the restaurant, located in the 400 block of South 10th Street, with Dairy Queen being the lone drive-thru fast food location in that area.

The release says an altercation broke out between occupants of two vehicles; and during that disturbance, one individual, identified as Low, allegedly threatened people in the other vehicle with a knife.

No injuries were reported as arising from the altercation.

Low had already left the area when police arrived, but he was located a short time later and taken into custody.

Following his arrest, Low was booked into the Atchison County Jail, facing the aggravated assault charge.

(KAIR)--A 24-year-old Independence man has been sentenced to more than 10 years in prison for a 2020 shooting death in Leavenworth County.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, court records show the shooting happened around 2:00 on the morning of August 16th, 2020.

Following a brief altercation at a bar in Lansing, the victim left the parking lot in a vehicle. Two other vehicles eventually pursued that vehicle, with Joshua Craig identified as a passenger in one of them.

While traveling on Eisenhower Road in Leavenworth, Craig fired a gun in the direction of the victim's vehicle with the release saying the bullet shattered the rear window and struck the victim, who died as a result.

During the investigation, shell casings recovered from the scene were later compared to a firearm Craig admitted belonged to him.

Craig pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter on June 29th of this year.

On August 12th, a judge sentenced him to just over 10 years in prison and ordered him to pay more than $11,400 in restitution.

Allen Byler/Credit: Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A jury trial has been set for a Nortonville man facing child sex charges.

Court records show 34-year-old Allen Byler pleaded not guilty Monday in Jefferson County District Court to two counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

His jury trial is scheduled for October 28th through the 30th.

Charges of rape and aggravated criminal sodomy were dismissed last week after a judge ruled evidence presented at a preliminary hearing showed those alleged crimes occurred in Colorado.

Byler was arrested in June following a joint investigation by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office and Kansas Bureau of Investigation into alleged crimes involving a child under the age of 14.

Byler remains in the Jefferson County Jail on 100-thousand dollars bond after a request to modify the bond was denied.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission is considering prohibiting data and energy storage centers in the county.

County Planning Commission Chairman William Vonderschmidt met with commissioners Monday to discuss last week’s public hearing on a proposed zoning amendment.

Vonderschmidt said three people attended the hearing, with two speaking on the proposal. All Planning Commission members voted to approve the amendment.

Commissioners also discussed concerns about data centers, including noise. Commissioner Richard Tesoriero said the centers generate a large amount of noise, while Vonderschmidt said communities can struggle with their presence.

All three commissioners expressed support for prohibiting data and energy storage centers in Brown County, but no action was taken.

(KMZA)--A State Board of Education candidate forum will be held in Seneca Monday evening, August 17.

The forum begins at 6 p.m. at the Woolsencroft Event Center at 1615 Branch Street.

Candidates Jennifer Lloyd and Amy Cawvey will discuss their vision for Kansas education, followed by a public question-and-answer session.

The forum is hosted by the Nemaha County Democrats and Republicans. Everyone is welcome to attend.

The study projects t more than $37 billion in gross revenue — up from the $22 billion projected in 2022.

The addition of five rare-earth products to the mine’s output, including dysprosium and terbium oxides, helped to drive that projected increase.

Elk Creek is the largest known source of niobium in the United States.

In early August, NioCorp also announced they’ve signed a memorandum of understanding with defense contractor Lockheed Martin, a nonbinding agreement allowing Lockheed Martin to potentially purchase around 16-and-a-half tons of scandium from the mine each year.

NioCorp has also announced  a change to its planned power source.  The company revealed it will no longer connect to the local electrical grid.

Chief Operating Officer Scott Honan said NioCorps best proposition is an onsite microgrid. 

That means the company will have a series of small natural gas fired generators that will power the site both during the construction period and during operations. 

(KLZA)--As students return to school, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Field Division is reminding communities about the hidden threat of drug trafficking through social media platforms, while also encouraging families to have conversations about the potentially lethal consequences of drug experimentation.

It’s estimated that 95% of American teenagers between the ages of 13-17 have access to a smartphone. With this in mind, the DEA recently released a series of short videos, “Hidden on Your Kid’s Phone,” as a way to raise awareness to the threat of drug trafficking through social media. The series is designed to give parents and caregivers the information needed to protect their families.  

The DEA is aware of drug traffickers using social media platforms to advertise the sale of deadly drugs through posts and disappearing stories. Often accompanied by known code words and emojis, these posts connect prospective buyers with dealers where conversation then move to encrypted communication apps like WhatsApp, Signal and Telegram.

Similar to legitimate online purchases, payment can be made through apps such as Venmo, Zelle and Cash App, with delivery often as easy as dropping off a package to your front door.

Across the five-state DEA Omaha Field Division agents have seized more than 67,000 fentanyl pills in the first seven months of 2026. This number is down from years’ past, while fentanyl powder seizures have increased nearly 87% from the same time last year. Altogether, fentanyl pill and powder seizures account for than four million deadly doses removed from communities in Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota. 

(KAIR)--An 80-year-old convicted rapist, serving his sentence at the Lansing Correctional Facility, has died.

According to a release from the Kansas Department of Corrections, Larry James Gregg was found unresponsive in his cell Thursday. Staff and emergency medical personnel administered life-saving measures, but were unable to revive him.

The cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

The release notes that per protocol, when a resident dies in the custody of the Kansas Department of Corrections, the death is investigated by the department and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. That investigation is ongoing.

Gregg was serving a life sentence for convictions of four counts of rape and four counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a child in Saline County.

The bill, which passed in March of 2026, prohibits school districts and school employees from using social media to communicate with students for official school purposes. It also bars districts from requiring students to use social media for any assignment or extracurricular activity.

There is some flexibility, as the law allows school districts and accredited nonpublic schools to approve a social media platform for official school business.

On the device side, students are prohibited from using personal electronic devices during the school day while on school grounds. Students who need to reach a parent or guardian can do so using a school phone. And schools are not liable for damage to, or storage of, personal devices brought to school.

There are exceptions to the bell-to-bell ban. A device is allowed if it's required for a student's individualized education program or 504 plan,
or if a physician approves it as a medical necessity. The law also does not apply to technology the district issues to students.

School districts must notify the state school board of their adopted policies and procedures by September 1st.

According to a release from the college, the summer break was used to add, renovate, and improve several areas across campus, and 2026 brought a long list of projects.

The biggest is the new Moritz Library in D'Aniello Hall. Interior work is wrapping up, and the library will be open for the fall semester, with full operating hours beginning August 26th. A formal dedication is set for the morning of September 26th during Family Weekend. Visitors will be able to see a replica of the Liberty Bell, tour a museum-quality reproduction of the Assembly Room from Independence Hall, and view an exhibition of Early American documents.

In St. Benedict Hall, a new pass-through has been carved out. Anyone entering the main central entrance can now see straight through the building and walk out the other side into the courtyard in front of the new library. The entire main floor was also refurbished with new flooring, fresh paint, and larger bathrooms.

Holy Grounds Coffee Shop has a new home, too, on the ground floor of the Moritz Library, with the release saying the move means a much larger space.

Its former space in the Haverty Center is now called Mick's Place, named for Michael "Mick" Haverty, who donated the money for the original renovations.

The college also made a number of safety upgrades. Exterior lights have been replaced with new 360-degree LEDs for brighter, broader coverage. Nearly 100 security cameras have been added around campus. The Campus Security staff has been doubled, with new officers being hired, meaning two officers on duty most of the time, allowing for more patrols and more available escorts. More doors have been added to the campus access control system, and the college has begun sending regular safety and security reminder emails, with expanded communication for off-campus students.

Some offices have also moved. The History Department, the Political Science Department, and the Center for Constitutional Liberty are all now housed in the Moritz Library.

Some individual faculty members have also relocated from the Ferrell Academic Center to St. Benedict Hall, with students asked to check with their professors on new office locations.

Meanwhile, as student move-in continues, the college has announced that Kelsey Reinhardt, President and CEO of CatholicVote and co-founder of Zeale, will give the keynote address during the 2026 Academic Convocation.

The event, set for September 1 in the Ralph Nolan Gymnasium, annually kicks off the academic year and officially welcomes the incoming freshman class.

A release from state transportation officials says Kansas law requires drivers to stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and the stop arm extended. Drivers from both directions must stay stopped until the bus moves on or the lights and stop arm are turned off.

Officials warn that failing to stop is dangerous and comes with costly penalties while putting children’s lives at risk. Many students have to cross the street after getting off the bus, and can be hard for drivers to see. 

The release highlights that illegal passing of stopped school buses remains a serious problem, with an estimated 43 million violations nationwide each school year. National data from the last school year shows six students were killed in loading or unloading zones, with half involving drivers who failed to stop for a bus.

Drivers are urged to watch for yellow flashing lights as a bus prepares to stop, always stop for red flashing lights and the stop arm, and stay alert by avoiding distractions. A new Kansas law also requires drivers to be hands free in school zones.

(KNZA)--The future of a planned housing development in Hiawatha is unclear following action taken by the Hiawatha School Board Wednesday evening.

The board voted to protest a Reinvestment Housing Incentive District for the Villas of Beautiful Maples project, effective August 25, to allow time for re-negotiations between the city, Brown County and the school district.

Hiawatha City Administrator Brad Scott and the project developers, Dave Anderson and Michael Webb, were present to discuss the RHID and answer questions.

In making the motion, board member Ian Schuetz said he wants to see the project move forward but not under present development terms. He said he can support a ten-year RHID but not the 25 year term proposed. Board member Phil Roberts agreed with Schuetz that the housing is needed but not under the current terms.  Anderson said a ten-year period would not work financially. 

During the public comment portion of the meeting,  several patrons spoke out against the project.

The RHID is a local economic development financing tool used to assist developers with public infrastructure costs for housing projects.

Webb said it gives the option to bring back a revised development plan.

The Hiawatha City Commission approved an ordinance at their July 27th meeting establishing a housing incentive district for the project. The school board’s vote to protest the district means the city would be required to repeal the ordinance.

Troy Enke/Credit: Brown County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man is facing multiple felony charges following an incident Tuesday.

Police Chief David Villanueva says officers responded to the 200 block of Pottawatomie Street for an alleged criminal damage to property incident accompanied by criminal threats.

The suspect was identified as 36-year-old Troy Enke.

Villanueva says Enke fled to his residence in the 500 block of South Seventh Street and failed to leave when officers arrived.

A search warrant was obtained through Brown County District Court. The Kansas Highway Patrol Special Response Team and K-9 units assisted Hiawatha police and the Brown County Sheriff's Office.

Enke was found hiding inside the home and arrested without incident. He was booked into the Brown County Jail.

Police are requesting felony charges of criminal threat, criminal damage to property and interference with law enforcement.

The investigation remains ongoing.

(KNZA)--Two northeast Kansas boil water advisories have been rescinded.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment says the advisories for the city of Delia water system in Jackson County and the Lakeside Village Improvement District in Jefferson County have been lifted.

The Delia advisory was issued July 28 following a waterline break that caused a loss of pressure.

The Lakeside Village advisory was issued Sunday because of equipment failure that resulted in low chlorine levels.

KDHE said Wednesday laboratory testing found no evidence of bacterial contamination, and the conditions that placed both systems at risk have been resolved.

(KNZA)--Coronado Road north of the Highland city limits has been reopened to through traffic following repairs to a concrete drainage box.

The Doniphan County Commission held a special meeting Tuesday morning to discuss the project after concerns were raised about the repair.

County Commissioner Tim Collins said the concern was not with the roadway itself, which he said is better than it was, but with 90 feet of drainage tube being installed instead of the 120 feet specified in the project scope, along with concerns about the slope of the banks.

Contractor Pat Urban of Urban Construction said the changes were made to address drainage concerns and prevent water from backing up onto neighboring properties.

The commission voted unanimously to reopen the road.

Urban Construction will finish side repairs and haul rock while the road remains open. Concrete barriers will be placed along the east edge until a metal guardrail can be installed.

Commissioners also said an engineer should be hired to oversee county road projects. Commissioner Wayne Grable suggested hiring a county engineer to oversee the entire road department.

The issue was raised at Monday's regular commission meeting by county resident Matt Cluck, who questioned why the project was changed without prior approval from the commission.

(KMZA)--Nemaha County is proposing a 2027 budget of 19-point-5 million dollars that exceeds the revenue neutral tax rate.

The budget includes an estimated tax rate of 51-point-3 mills, which is 11-point-6 mills above the revenue neutral rate.

The county would collect nearly 12-point-3 million dollars in property taxes, an increase of 2-point-8 million dollars from this year.

The budget is based on an assessed valuation of more than 239 million dollars.

County commissioners are continuing to review the budget for possible cuts and could lower the mill levy before final adoption.

A public hearing on the budget, along with a second hearing on the county's intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate, is scheduled for August 24th at 5 p.m. at the Nemaha County Courthouse.

Dustin McCulley/Credit: Brown County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Hiawatha man convicted of two felony aggravated assault charges has been placed on probation.

Online court records show Dustin McCulley was given a suspended prison sentence last week in Brown County District Court and placed on two years of supervised probation.

McCulley pleaded no contest to the charges last month.

He was accused of threatening two people with a knife in August 2025.

The case was investigated by the Hiawatha Police Department.

Recent samples taken at the lake measured above the threshold of 8 parts per billion of total microcystin, which is a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae. 

Signs are posted advising 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.

Weekly sampling at 57 lakes across Nebraska will continue to through September 14.

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha is proposing a 2027 budget of more than eight-point-nine million dollars that remains revenue neutral.

The City Commission unanimously approved the budget for publication Monday night after City Administrator Brad Scott reviewed the proposal.

The budget includes an estimated tax rate of 34-point-47 mills, which is the revenue-neutral rate and one-point-eight mills lower than this year's levy.

The city expects to collect more than one-point-three million dollars in property taxes, based on an assessed valuation of nearly 39 million dollars.

Scott says the budget accounts for the city's proposed 125-thousand-dollar payment to the county for dispatch services, while remaining revenue neutral.

The budget also includes a three-percent pay raise for city employees, increased funding for downtown planters, and money for curb-and-gutter grants through the storm sewer fund.

The Commission will hold a public hearing and consider adopting the budget August 24th.

(KNZA)--The St. Joseph Police Department is investigating an early Tuesday morning shooting in the area of South 33rd Street.

Police say officers responded shortly after 12:30 a.m. to a report of multiple shots fired between Mitchell Avenue and Duncan Street.

Officers found numerous shell casings in the roadway and a vehicle that had been struck by gunfire.

No injuries were reported.

No one is currently in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.

Deputies issued 36 citations for offenses including speeding, no registration, fictitious plates, no insurance, no driver's license, stop sign violations, stop light violations and driving on the shoulder as well as 74 warnings. The fastest speed was 35 mph over the posted speed limit.

The one-day event will feature donations to more than 60 local funds, impacting what a release calls "thousands of lives across Atchison County." Every dollar donated on Match Day goes further, thanks to $150,000 in matching funds that amplify contributions to the organizations and charitable causes that make Atchison County "a better place to live, work, and grow," according to the release.

Organizers say there’s a cause for everyone on Match Day, whether you’re passionate about children, education, the arts, parks, historic preservation, scholarships, food security, or helping neighbors in need.

The kick-off event, Match Day Happy Hour, will be held Friday afternoon from 4:00 to 7:00 at the Atchison Event Center. Attendees can meet local nonprofits, learn about new causes, enjoy refreshments, and celebrate the generosity that supports the community.

There are multiple ways to give, with donations to be made online anytime from 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on August 14, or gifts can be mailed to the Atchison Foundation. Checks must be made payable to the Atchison Foundation and include a completed donation form. Mailed donations must be received by Friday to qualify for matching funds.

Organizers remind residents that "every donation strengthens Atchison County," with eligible gifts, on Match Day, receiving a proportional share of the $150,000 matching pool, with participating organizations able to receive up to $5,000 in matching funds.

For more information, visit the Atchison Foundation website or stop by the Atchison Event Center on Friday.

Eric Stone/Credit: Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--An Ozawkie man is facing multiple felony charges in Jefferson County.

Forty-eight-year-old Eric Stone was arrested August fourth by the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and made his first court appearance last Thursday.

On-line court records show Stone faces five charges stemming from an alleged incident involving an elderly man--including mistreatment of an elder person and aggravated battery. He’s also charged with allegedly threatening a law enforcement officer, interfering with law enforcement and criminal damage to property.

Stone also faces a separate felony theft charge from April, involving the alleged theft of a 2017 Ford Edge from the same person identified in the August case.

Stone remains in the Jefferson County Jail on a 50-thousand-dollar bond and is scheduled for his next court appearance Thursday.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Transportation began a highway signing project last week in Marshall County.

The project is replacing signs along portions of K-9, K-99, K-233, U.S. 36 and U.S. 77.

Most work is taking place on the shoulders with minimal traffic impacts, although flaggers may be used during temporary lane closures.

Work is scheduled Monday through Saturday during daylight hours and is expected to continue through October, weather permitting.

KOMO Construction of Elko New Market, Minnesota, is the contractor on the 726-thousand-dollar project.

A release from the office outline one recent incident in which the mother of an inmate contacted an attorney after receiving calls from individuals claiming to be affiliated with local law enforcement agencies. The callers allegedly told her that the jail was full and that her son could be released to house arrest if she paid a bond.

Fortunately, the release says, the woman contacted the attorney before sending any money, preventing her from falling victim to the scam.

The release says other reports have involved similar tactics, and the office is urging the public to stay vigilant.

County Attorney Todd Thompson says scammers often "create a sense of urgency" to pressure people into making quick decisions. He advises anyone receiving unexpected calls about an inmate’s release to "stop and verify the information" before taking action, and to never provide personal or financial details to an unsolicited caller.

The release encourages residents to independently verify claims involving an incarcerated family member by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency or detention facility using publicly available phone numbers—not those provided by the caller.

Anyone who receives a suspicious call should avoid giving money or personal information and report the incident to their local law enforcement agency.

The release reminds residents that awareness is one of the best defenses against scams and urges the public to share this information with family and friends to help prevent others from becoming victims.

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

Under the advisory, customers are urged to boil water for one minute before drinking it or using it for food preparation. Bottled water is also recommended as an alternative.  

The advisory took effect on August 9 and will remain in place until the conditions that caused the risk of bacterial contamination are resolved.  

State health officials say the advisory was issued because of equipment failure that led to low chlorine levels in the system. The lack of required chlorine levels could leave the system at risk for bacterial contamination. 

(KNZA)--Horton city officials are proposing a 2027 budget that exceeds the revenue neutral tax rate.

The proposed $6.3 million budget carries an estimated tax rate of 50.17 mills, which is 7.6 mills above the revenue neutral rate.

The city would collect nearly $538,000 in property taxes, about $82,000 more than this year.

Horton's assessed valuation increased by nearly $479,000 to $10.7 million.

The City Commission will consider adopting the budget following a public hearing September 8th. The commission will also hold a separate hearing on its intent to exceed the revenue neutral rate

(KAIR)--A midweek, Atchison traffic stop led to a drug-related arrest and to multiple charges for one.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 47-year-old George Lewis, of Atchison, was arrested Wednesday morning around 10:20, taken into custody on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, and failure to yield at a stop sign.

Police say the case began shortly after 10:00 that morning when an officer stopped the vehicle driven by Lewis in the 800 block of Laramie Street for a traffic violation. It was then Lewis was found to be in the alleged possession of controlled substances.

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

(KLZA)-- The Southeast District Health Department has announced that a mosquito pool in Richardson County has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

While there are no confirmed human cases, it means the virus is present in the mosquito population, and that it is important to take precautions to reduce your risk of mosquito bites.

Symptoms of West Nile Virus may include: fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting or diarrhea and development of a rash.

In rare cases, the virus can cause serious illness affecting the brain and nervous system. Adults over 60 and people with certain medical conditions are at greater risk for severe illness.

You can help protect yourself from the virus by using EPA-registered insect repellent; wearing long sleeves and pants when outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk and you should also remove standing water around your home where mosquitoes can breed.

If you develop symptoms consistent with West Nile Virus, contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.

Those who have filed for Village Boards in Richardson County include:

Barada:  Carolyn  Meckstroh and Elaina  Strecker.  Both incumbents. Two will be elected.

Dawson:  Larry Koch and Stephanie Ingrahm – Both incumbents.  Three are to be elected.

Rulo:  Regina Barber, incumbent;  Matthew Bletscher,  Karen Collins and Jimmy Coonce. Three are to be elected.

Salem:  Casey Struch and Jon Kean. Both incumbents with two to be elected.

Shubert: Gary Hays and Linda Patchen.  Both incumbents will two seats open.

Stella:  Kyle Gossman and Rick Ramer – incumbents and Ann Marie Gould. Two will be elected.

Verdon:  Cody Bahr and Denise Koso. Both incumbents with two seats open.

Educational Service Unit #4:  June Bowers – representing Falls City Wards I, II, III, and IV. 

The Missouri Highway Patrol reported the southbound semi traveled off the east side of the road, returned to the road and overturned, coming to rest on it's drivers side, blocking both southbound lanes of traffic.

The wreck occurred around 3:50 a.m. Approximately five miles east of Oregon, Missouri. 

The 2024 Freightliner was totaled.

The driver was transported to the Mosaic Hospital in St. Joseph  by the Atchison-Holt Ambulance District.  

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has approved a trip for the city’s historic 1922 Stutz fire engine to Indianapolis next month.

Fire Department member Robert Olson told the council at their August 5 meeting that the department plans to take the engine to two shows. The trip is scheduled for September 16th through the 20th.

In other business, the council approved 2026 curb and gutter work at a cost not to exceed $85,000 and the appointment of Andrew Sneed to the Seneca Free Library Board. His term is retroactive to May 1st and runs through April 30th, 2030.

The council also approved a special event cereal malt beverage license for the Sts. Peter and Paul Church annual picnic September 6th, along with a resolution allowing a beer garden on city property during the event.

(KLZA)--A rural Shubert, Nebraska man is facing multiple felony charges following the execution of arrest and search warrants Thursday by the Richardson County Sheriff’s Office.

The Nebraska State Patrol arrested Max W. Shafer the Fourth on an active Richardson County warrant and turned him over to county deputies.

During a search of Shafer’s residence, the sheriff's office says deputies recovered evidence related to an assault investigation, including the alleged weapon used in the assault.

Authorities seized suspected marijuana, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, ammunition and a loaded handgun hidden inside a clock.

Shafer is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

He faces felony charges of second-degree assault, use of a weapon to commit a felony, first-degree false imprisonment, marijuana distribution, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and methamphetamine possession.

He also faces a misdemeanor charge of possession of marijuana.

The sheriff’s office thanked the Nebraska State Patrol for helping safely execute the warrants.

According to a release from Atchison Fire Chief Patrick Weishaar, crews were called to 1134 Atchison Street at approximately 10:20 Thursday morning for a report of smoke coming from the residence.

On arrival, firefighters found heavy smoke coming from both floors of the home. No one was home at the time, and firefighters were able to quickly enter the building to ventilate the space and search for the fire’s base.

Weishaar says a UTV parked in the basement garage had caught fire, sending smoke throughout the home and causing fire to begin spreading to the structure above.

Firefighters extinguished the flames, limiting damage to the building. Crews remained on scene to check for extensions of the fire, and the department's investigator was called to determine what caused the UTV fire.

No injuries were reported.

The investigation continues.

Weishaar credits the assistance provided by Atchison Police, Atchison County EMS, the Atchison City Water Department, Kansas Gas, and Evergy, with coordination from Atchison County Communication Center dispatchers.

In a release from the Office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, prosecutors say 20-year-old Tyren Bradley, of Leavenworth, was sentenced Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, in Leavenworth County District Court to 2 years, 8 months in prison.

The county attorney’s office says Bradley was convicted of involuntary manslaughter on June 26.

Thompson’s office says prosecutors argued Bradley should serve prison time, while the defense asked the judge for a dispositional departure, saying there were “substantial and compelling reasons” to avoid prison. The release says the judge denied the request and ordered the prison sentence.

The release says the shooting happened April 28. Deputies with the Leavenworth County Sheriff’s Office were called to a home on Hillside Road around 2:50 that afternoon for a reported shooting, and the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Court records cited in the release say several friends were in the basement when the conversation turned to firearms. Investigators say Bradley pulled out a semiautomatic pistol and demonstrated what he described as a “trick,” then pulled the trigger, and the weapon discharged, striking the victim in the chest.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man is in custody, arrested this week on child sex-related charges.

Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, in a release, identifies the man as 20-year-old Michael A. Fife, arrested Wednesday afternoon on an Atchison County District Court warrant charging him with sexual exploitation of a child.

The arrest came around 2:20 in the 700 block of Atchison's North 9th Street.

Wilson tells MSC News his office assisted the Kansas Bureau of Investigation with Fife's arrest, as the investigation and case belongs to the KBI.

Additional details regarding Fife's alleged crimes are not known as court filings pertaining to the case were not immediately available.

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

According to jail records, Fife is held on a bond of $500,000.

(KLZA)-- NioCorp Developments Ltd., a leading U.S. critical minerals developer, announced the signing of a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Lockheed Martin regarding the potential purchase of up to 15 tonnes/year of scandium oxide from NioCorp, in either oxide form or in the form of aluminum-scandium alloys, over the next 10 years.

NioCorp plans to produce approximately 100 tonnes/year of scandium oxide from its Nebraska-based Elk Creek Critical Minerals Project, once project financing and construction are complete.  NioCorp currently produces 4% aluminum-scandium master alloy in the U.S., utilizing market-sourced scandium oxide.  NioCorp has said it also intends to produce finished aluminum-scandium alloy ingots that vary in scandium content from 0.2% to 0.8% for customers in both the commercial and defense markets.

“Lockheed Martin has earned its reputation as one of the strongest names in American defense and aerospace, and as a U.S. critical minerals company, we're proud to be working toward supplying them with the scandium products they need,” said Mark A. Smith, NioCorp CEO and Chairman. “Both companies recognize how important scandium has become to the future of American defense technology as well as the imperative of establishing a domestic scandium mine-to-warfighter supply chain.  NioCorp is already investing to build out this supply chain as rapidly as possible, including the ability to make aluminum-scandium master alloy today.  Clearly, the case for reducing our reliance on China for scandium and other critical minerals has never been stronger.”

“Lockheed Martin has long valued partnerships that strengthen the U.S. industrial base and support our warfighters,” said Tyler Robinson, vice president, Technology Roadmaps, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works.  “We appreciate the work NioCorp is doing to establish a domestic source of scandium oxide as well as the company’s aluminum-scandium alloying capabilities, and we look forward to continuing to evaluate that supply as part of our broader alloy development efforts.”

The MOU builds on an existing joint development program with Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works to develop scandium-based aluminum alloy components for modern fighter aircraft. That program, announced in October 2025, is funded by the U.S. Department of War as part of a $10 million award to NioCorp’s subsidiary, Elk Creek Resources Corp., under Title III of the Defense Production Act, and is intended to help establish the United States’ first domestic scandium mine-to-master-alloy supply chain.

The MOU is non-binding, and both companies have agreed to negotiate in good faith a definitive agreement as rapidly as possible. There is no assurance that a definitive agreement will be reached, or as to its eventual terms.

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council confirmed the appointment of Janis Fischer to serve as a member of the Board of Public Works when they met Monday night.

She will replace Aaron Johnansen on the five-member Board.

In other action, the Council approved on final reading an ordinance to provide the rounding up or down to the nearest nickel, any cash transaction conducted with the City due to the discontinuance of the penny.

An ordinance to provide for allowing the sale of alcoholic beverages until 2 a.m., in Falls City which will bring the local ordinance in harmony with state statutes was approved.

Council members also approved certification of Program Compliance to Nebraska Board of Public Roads Classification and Standards for 2026 during the meeting.

(KLZA)-- Atchison County, Missouri Sheriff's deputies conducted a search warrant of a home in Fairfax on July 31 resulting in the arrest of two suspects.

After a probable cause statement was filed, a warrant for the arrest of two men was issued by the Atchison County Circuity Court.

Marcus Hall is charged with four counts of 1st degree statutory rape or attempted rape and is being held in the Atchison County Jail without bond.

Hudson Hall, also of Fairfax was arrested for one count of 1st degree endangering the welfare of a child, involving drugs.

Hudson Hall is in the Atchison County Jail and is being held on a $10 thousand bond.

(KLZA)-- A federal arrest warrant has been issued for an Arizona man who has been in jail in Atchison County, Missouri,since September of last year.

Dustin Hill of Florence, Arizona was 22 at the time of his arrest in September of 2025.

Hill has been indicted by the United States District Court for the Western District of Missouri in relation to a kidnapping incident in Rock Port, which occurred September 19, 2025.

Hill has been indicted on four counts.

Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity which carries a minimum 10-year prison sentence and up to a life sentence.

Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with up to a life prison sentence.

Transportation of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity, which carries a minimum 10 year sentence up to life.

Transfer of Obscene Material to a Minor, which carries a maximum sentences of life in prison.

Dustin Hill continues to be held in the Atchison County Jail in Rock Port.

Hill is accused of taking two, 12-year-old girls from Rock Port on September 19th, 2025.

Hill was located an detained in Evansville, Indiana the following morning and the girls were found safe in Evansville.

The two girls were reported missing that Friday night around 10:20 p.m. When they did not return home from a high school football game in Rock Port. They had last been seen around 8:40 that evening near the southwest gate of the football field.

A task force that included Atchison County Deputies, Missouri Highway Patrolmen, the FBI, Cyber Crimes Task Force and Missouri Department of Conservation was convened to search for the missing girls.

(KLZA)-- A 31-year-old Salem, Nebraska man has been bound over to Richardson County District Court on a  felony charge of sexual assault of a child in the first degree.

On Wednesday, Wade Witt appeared in Richardson County Court for a preliminary hearing.

Court documents indicate that on June 9, the father of the juvenile female found Witt in his daughters bedroom after she allegedly snuck him into the house. The father contacted the Falls City Police Department.

Affidavits allege that Witt had sexual intercourse with the girl who is described as a person between the ages of 12 and 16.

Witt is scheduled to appear for arraignment in Richardson County District Court on September 1. He is currently free on a $10 thousand cash bond.

Emily Sisco, the County Attorney in Pawnee County is serving as the special prosecutor in the case.

(KAIR)--A suspect is in custody after a vehicle theft investigation that began in Atchison and ended with an arrest in Leavenworth.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 41-year-old Thomas White, of Lancaster, Ohio, was arrested in Leavenworth on Sunday, Aug. 2, on a District Court warrant charging him of burglary of a vehicle and theft.

The release says the warrant stems from a July 7 investigation after an SUV was taken from a convenience store parking lot at 4th Street and U.S. 59, in Atchison, shortly before 9:30 that morning.

Police say the victim left the keys in the vehicle while going into the store.

The vehicle was recovered later that day in Leavenworth, parked and unoccupied.

White was taken to the Atchison County Jail, where bond was set at $50,000.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission is asking for more information before deciding whether to participate in a proposed Hiawatha housing development incentive district.

Hiawatha City Administrator Brad Scott discussed the Rural Housing Incentive District, or RHID, with commissioners July 31st. The district would support the Villas of Beautiful Maples project, which calls for 10 duplex units.

Scott said the RHID is critical to making the project possible. Commissioner Richard Tesoriero said the county has received several calls about the project and wants more details before making a decision.

Commissioners agreed to send a list of questions to Hiawatha officials before considering participation.

The Hiawatha City Commission approved the RHID ordinance July 27th. The ordinance is now in a 30-day protest period. If either the Brown County Commission or Hiawatha School Board adopts a resolution opposing the district, the city would have to repeal the ordinance.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha Police Department is thanking the many organizations, businesses and volunteers who helped make this year's National Night Out a success.

The annual community event was held Tuesday evening at the Fisher Center, giving residents an opportunity to meet local law enforcement, first responders and community service providers while learning about programs and resources available in the area.

Police Chief David Villanueva says the department was pleased to welcome children and families from Hiawatha and surrounding communities. He also recognized the dozens of agencies, businesses and volunteers who participated, along with local sponsors including Walmart, Sonic, Casey's, Farm & Home, Nigus Liquor and Citizens State Bank. Sonic donated corn dogs for the event.

 Villanueva also credited Hiawatha Police Department Operations Supervisor Barb Mauslein for coordinating this year's National Night Out, saying the event would not have been possible without the support of community partners and volunteers.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has awarded a $66,000 contract for three road improvement projects on 175th Road, west of Oxide Road.

Commissioners Monday accepted the bid from Engemann Drainage Company to replace two crossroad culverts and rebuild a section of 175th Road by raising and widening the roadway.

Although Kent Kiefer Excavating submitted the low bids on two of the three projects, Second District Commissioner Warren Grable said Engemann's proposal included additional work to cap an existing drop box, eliminating extra labor and material costs for the county.

Commissioners voted 2-1 to award the contract, with Commissioner Grable and Commissioner Bobby Hall voting in favor and Commissioner Timothy Collins opposed.

During the discussion, Commissioner Hall also said Urban Construction should complete its current county road projects before bidding on additional work.

Robert Brewer/Credit: Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--An Oskaloosa man is facing charges of aggravated robbery and battery following an investigation by the Oskaloosa Police Department.

Thirty-eight-year-old Robert Brewer was arrested August 1st on a Jefferson County warrant charging him with with the offenses in connection with a July 26th incident.

According to the criminal complaint, prosecutors allege Brewer forcibly took an iPhone from another individual by using force or threatening bodily harm. He is also accused of causing bodily harm to the victim during the incident.

Brewer remains in the Jefferson County Jail on a $250,000 bond.

The college says the honor recognizes its commitment to affordable, high-quality education, student success, community engagement, and preparing graduates for meaningful careers.

Founded in 1867 as Nebraska's first institution of higher education, Peru State offers more than 70 academic programs through its Schools of Education, Arts and Sciences, and Professional Studies.

College President Dr. Robert Mock says the recognition reflects the work of faculty, staff, and students in building on the school's long history while creating new opportunities for the future.

The magazine also cited Peru State's efforts to expand access to higher education through its One Rate, Any State tuition program, growing online degree offerings, and the PERU FIRST dual-enrollment program.

Peru State is preparing to celebrate its 160th anniversary in 2027 while continuing to expand academic opportunities and community partnerships.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the crash happened around 1:30 p.m., about a mile north of Corning.

According to the Patrol, a northbound semi driven by a 50-year-old woman from Galloway, Ohio struck the towed unit of a semi-tractor trailer that was stopped on the east shoulder of the interstate.

The woman's truck crossed the roadway and came to rest upright in the median. The parked semi ended up upright in the east ditch. Both trucks caught fire and were totaled.

The driver of the parked rig, a 64-year-old man from Louisiana, and the Ohio woman were taken by Atchison-Holt Ambulance to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph with injuries.

(KLZA)--The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced in a Tuesday afternoon press release that May tornadoes, flooding and straight-line winds in eight  Nebraska counties has led to a federal disaster declaration by President Donald Trump. 

The disaster declaration includes Nemaha, Gage, Jefferson,  Thayer, Buffalo, Fillmore, Howard,and Thurston Counties, 

Public damage likely eligible for relief could include damaged schools, public buildings and public power infrastructure, such as downed power poles and electricity delivery lines, based on the state's report of nearly $5 million in damage in its request for the assistance. 

According to a release from Sheriff Tim Morse, the new service replaces the previous Textcaster notification system.

Residents who were signed up for Textcaster will need to register with Hyper-Reach to continue receiving weather alerts, emergency notifications, and other important county updates. Once the transition is complete, messages will no longer be sent through the old Textcaster service.

Morse encourages all residents to sign up for Hyper-Reach as soon as possible to stay informed about emergencies and other information that could affect their safety.

(KNZA)--Two people were arrested on drug charges following an early Tuesday morning traffic stop in Jackson County.

Sheriff Tim Morse says a deputy stopped a pickup shortly before 2:00 a.m. on 150th Road near Q Road after allegedly observing a traffic violation.

The driver, 36-year-old Craig Lewis of Topeka, reportedly told the deputy his driver's license was suspended. Morse says Lewis allegedly refused commands to exit the vehicle and was arrested for interference with law enforcement. Deputies then developed probable cause to search the pickup.

Morse says the search uncovered suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, THC products and drug paraphernalia.

Lewis was booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges including possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, THC and drug paraphernalia, along with interference with law enforcement and driving without a valid driver's license.

The passenger, 25-year-old Katie Vance of Havensville, was booked on charges of possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

(KNZA)--Two people were injured Monday evening when a pickup truck rear-ended a Buchanan County Sheriff's patrol vehicle on U.S. Highway 36 east of St. Joseph.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the crash happened just before 5:30 p.m., about six-and-a-half miles east of St. Joseph.

According to the Patrol, a pickup driven by a 24-year-old St. Joseph man was traveling eastbound when it failed to yield to a stationary Buchanan County Sheriff's SUV with its emergency lights activated. The pickup struck the rear of the patrol vehicle, which was being driven by a 30-year-old St. Joseph woman.

Both drivers suffered suspected minor injuries and were taken to Mosaic Life Care in St. Joseph. The Patrol says both were wearing seat belts.

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

That's what a release from the council is calling the weekend recall of one council member through exercising what the release calls "the authority granted under...the Constitution and By-Laws" of the tribe.

That happened Saturday when the General Council completed the constitutional recall process to remove Gail Cheatham from the Tribal Council with membership voting to do so. Once completed, a vote of approval was given to the election of Priscilla Wakole to serve the remainder of the unexpired term.

On Monday, the release says, the Council again convened and completed reorganization of the council, with Wakole selected to serve as Tribal Council Chair and Nellie Cadue as Vice-Chair.
Named as secretary is Howard Allen while Michelle Cadue was named Treasurer. Selected as Tribal Council Members were Sharon Doxtator, and Merle Green.

Credit: Kickapoo Tribe of KS

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, 55-year-old Paul Surber, of Atchison, was arrested around 11:00 Sunday morning in the 1000 block of Main Street.

Officers conducted a traffic stop and say Surber was driving without a license. He was charged with several traffic violations and was found to be in the alleged possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

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

Later that afternoon, 35-year-old Heather Abernathy, of Atchison, was arrested in the 900 block of Unity Street.

Wilson's release says an officer on patrol observed Abernathy and took her into custody on a Community Corrections detain order. She was also found to be in the alleged possession of synthetic marijuana.

Once in custody, Abernathy was booked into the county jail.

(MSC News)--Voters in area northeast Kansas counties decide several special questions Tuesday and which candidates should advance to the November general election ballot.

All results remain unofficial pending the canvassing of the results. 

Atchison County voters said yes Tuesday to the proposed one cent county wide sales tax to fund the County's emergency services.

Voters gave their approval with 1,451 affirmative ballots cast while 691 said no. 

The sales tax was proposed to potentially provide property tax relief, putting the funding of EMS on the sales tax and allowing for projected property tax relief. 

Atchison County voters, making their selection in the Republican primary, said no to sitting 2nd District Atchison County Commissioner John Calhoon, choosing his challenger instead.

Randell Vanderweide gained her party's support, defeating Calhoon 443 to 364.

Vanderweide, a political newcomer, will face Democrat John Settich in November's general election.

Settich ran unopposed.

Calhoon was appointed to the seat to fill a vacancy early this year. Since that time, his position has been challenged in a lawsuit filed by the Atchison County Attorney opposing Calhoon's holding of what the lawsuit calls two county offices: that of Commissioner and that of Jackson County Undersheriff.

While the results of the election means Calhoon's out, the offical ruling on the matter remains in the hands of the judge.
 

In Doniphan County, Roger Hopkins won a three-way race in the Republican primary for First District County Commissioner.
Hopkins received 202 votes to defeat incumbent Timothy Collins, who finished with 189 votes. Ben Leatherman received 141 votes.
In Wathena, voters overwhelmingly approved continuing the city's existing one-percent retailers sales tax by a vote of 182 to 34. City officials say the sales tax will continue to fund street, water and sewer improvements while helping reduce the need for property tax increases.
The Doniphan County Clerk's Office reported voter turnout at about 31 percent.

In Nemaha County, Edwin Steinlage won the Republican primary race for First District County Commissioner.   Steinlage defeated incumbent Ben Glace by a vote of 386 to 313.   He will face no Democratic opposition in November.

In Jackson County, voters narrowly defeated the renewal of the county's four-tenths of percent special retailers' sales tax to fund road and bridge improvements.  

The measure failed by 61 votes. Unofficial results show 1,618 voters opposed the renewal, while 1,557 voted in favor.

Holton voters narrowed the field of candidates vying for position 5 on the city commission.  Advancing to the November general election ballot were John Lemon and Darlene Selley.  Eliminated from race were Shawn LeHotta and Jason Murphy. The position is currently held by Marilyn Watkins who did not seek re-election.

State Races

61st District State Representative Francis Awerkamp won the Republican primary race over challenger Robert Thomas.  

Awerkamp received nearly 61 percent of the vote.

He will face no Democratic opposition in November.

Voters have set the stage for November's race for Kansas Governor.

In the Republican Primary, Ty Masterson earned the nod of his party to advance to the general election.

Masterson, in November, will face Democrat Cindy Holscher, who earned her party's support Tuesday to seek the gubernatorial seat. 

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall wins the Kansas Republican primary.

Marshall will face Democrat Adam Hamilton in November.

Marshall is seeking an additional six-year term.

On the Democratic side of that race in Tuesday's primary, voters gave their approval to Hamilton to challenge Marshall in the general election.

Hamilton took the top spot in a crowded field of candidates in the Democratic primary.

Following the win, the Hamilton campaign emailed a statement on the victory to MSC News. “Tonight Kansans said they had enough of the chaos and corruption in Roger Marshall’s Washington DC. They’re tired skyrocketing prices for gas, groceries, and health care. They’re tired of a Senator who only pretends to live in Kansas. Kansas Republicans, Democrats, and Independents are ready for something different. Kansas families are ready for something better. That’s why Adam Hamilton is going to beat Roger Marshall in November.”

No statement was immediately received from Marshall's campaign. 

To see state election tallies, click below.

(KNZA)--A Jackson County lake has been placed under a public health advisory because of blue-green algae.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have placed Elkhorn Lake, next to Rafters Park in Holton, under watch status.

Meanwhile, Pony Creek Lake in Brown County has been downgraded from warning to watch status. The two lakes are among 11 statewide currently on the watch list. 

For lakes under watch status, KDHE recommends avoiding direct contact with the water. Fish should be cleaned with potable water, and only the fillet portion should be eaten.

The advisories will be lifted once algae cell counts and toxin levels fall below watch thresholds.

(KMZA)--Three people were injured in a two-vehicle crash Monday evening in Nemaha County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol says the crash happened shortly after 9:20 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. 36 and K-178, west of Seneca.

According to the Patrol, a pickup driven by 67-year-old Douglas Huppert of Salem, Nebraska, was southbound on K-178 and failed to yield to a westbound SUV on U.S. 36 driven by 39-year-old Holly Dixon of Axtell. The pickup struck the SUV broadside.

Huppert, his passenger, 65-year-old Shiela Huppert, and Dixon were all taken to Nemaha Valley Community Hospital in Seneca. Authorities say Shiela Huppert and Dixon suffered suspected serious injuries, while Douglas Huppert suffered suspected minor injuries.

The Patrol says all three were wearing seat belts.

Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau updated the Board on routine maintenance being done on county roads and bridges. The crews have been doing improvement work on the Pony Creek Road which is close to completion. An update was also given on the Dawson NW project. 

Sheriff Rick Hardesty discussed the replacement of patrol vehicles and the next fiscal year's budget. The board went into executive session with Hardesty, County Attorney Sheitel and Clerk Eickhoff to review a personnel situation and for the needless injury to the reputation of an individual.

The board will consider annual funding of $5,000 to the Pennsylvania Historical Society, $5,000 to the Quad County Historical Society and $10,000 for the Richardson County Historical Society. 

County Clerk Eickhoff presented to the board the FY26-27 budget with each of the county departments proposed budgets. The board will meet with each department in the next few weeks to review their requests

The board received a claim filed by Ron Jordening for medical expenses from February, 16th incident on a sidewalk area on the block of the Richardson County Courthouse. The board voted to forward the claim to the county's insurance carrier.

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, it all began around 4:00, when a 2019 Toyota Camry was northbound on U.S. Highway 75 and missed the exit to the Prairie Band Casino at 150th Road.

The driver attempted to turn around at 158th Road and, while re-entering the highway headed south, allegedly collided with the rear of a southbound semi-trailer. The car, which sustained significant front-end damage, allegedly fled the scene without stopping. The semi driver was not injured.

After leaving the scene, the Camry exited at 150th Road, allegedly failed to stop at the stop sign, and turned east. A Jackson County Sheriff’s deputy attempted a traffic stop, but the driver allegedly refused, leading officers on a pursuit. During the chase, the driver reportedly turned off the headlights and continued at a high rate of speed before leaving the road, striking a large limestone rock, and coming to rest.

The driver, identified as 27-year-old Logan Bartley of Topeka, allegedly fled on foot. With assistance from a Kansas Highway Patrol aircraft, deputies found and arrested Bartley near the scene at about 8:50.

Everyone in the car, including two passengers from Topeka, 27-year-old Destainy Herrick and 23-year-old Braeden Hill, refused medical treatment. Herrick was arrested for interference with law enforcement and possession of a controlled substance. 

Bartley, who Morse says had recently been released from the Department of Corrections, faces charges including fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, interference with law enforcement, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to stop at a stop sign, criminal damage to property, and operating a vehicle without a valid license.

The investigation is ongoing.

All public school districts and many private schools in Kansas are participating. Families can apply any time, with forms available at local schools. 

Children in households receiving food assistance, Temporary Assistance for Families, or who are in foster care automatically qualify for free meals. Families on WIC or Medicaid may also be eligible.

Officials encourage families to notify the school if their income changes or if anyone becomes unemployed. All information is confidential and only used to determine eligibility.

For details, contact your school district or visit the Kansas State Department of Education website.

At Monday's meeting, Sheriff Mark Allen and Maintenance Superintendent Dennis McKittrick presented bids from Lee Grover Construction of St. Joseph, Missouri to repair the building's exterior insulation and finish system, known as EIFS, as well as interior flooring.

McKittrick told commissioners that several contractors were contacted, but few in the area specialize in EIFS work.

Commissioners unanimously approved a bid of $69,750 for exterior repairs and $16,250 for installation of an aggregate broadcast flooring material inside the facility.

The work will be paid for using proceeds from the county's new sales tax fund.

County Clerk Nikki Lee says voters in all Hiawatha city wards, along with Hiawatha Township, Padonia, Hamlin and Reserve precincts, will now vote at First Baptist Church, located at 210 Lodge Road in Hiawatha.

Voters are reminded to bring a valid photo ID when casting their ballot on Election Day.

Jim and Patricia Koch have announced a $50,000 matching gift through the Nemaha County STEP Foundation. If donors contribute $50,000 to the Spring Creek Golf Course Improvement Fund during Match Day on Friday, August 28th, the Kochs will match that amount dollar-for-dollar.

Meeting the challenge would generate $100,000 to improve the golf course's cart paths, making the course safer and more enjoyable for golfers and visitors.

The Kochs say Spring Creek has been a special place for their family and the community, and they hope the matching challenge inspires others to give toward a project that will benefit Nemaha County for years to come.

Spring Creek General Manager Tony Altenhofen says the golf course is more than just a place to play golf, serving as a gathering place for families, friends and tournaments that bring visitors to the area. He says the matching gift gives everyone an opportunity to be part of a lasting improvement.

Donations can be made in person at the Seneca Free Library from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on August 28th, or online throughout the day here.

Every dollar donated on Match Day will go toward the cart path improvement project.

(KAIR)--A new tribal council member is elected following Saturday's recall vote for Kickapoo Tribal Council member Gail Cheatham. 

According to tribal council members following the General Council meeting, the vote of removal was 84 to 40, which recalled Cheatham by the tribe's constitution. Council member Jessi Blacksmith calls it the first time in 89-years that such a recall move has made it to completion. 

Following Cheatham's recall, a special election was held where Priscilla Wakole was approved to fill Cheatham's position. 

A reason for the recall has not been stated publicly. 

A recall petition was submitted by tribal members on July 7, with the following verification of signatures moving the effort forward, leading to the Tribal Council meeting of July 16 when Saturday's General Council meeting was set.

Cheatham was removed from her position as tribal chairperson by a Tribal Court order on March 5, although the court allowed her to remain on the Tribal Council while appointing Vice Chairperson Nellie Cadue as interim chairperson.

Cheatham served on the Tribal Council since September 2023.