(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has hired a new Parks and Recreation Director.

Council members Wednesday night approved the hiring of Lori Gray for the position. Gray will begin work in August at a salary of 25 dollars an hour. She replaces Jordan Weaver, who resigned last November.

The Council also approved the hiring of Loren Heideman as a seasonal employee at 13 dollars and 50 cents an hour.

In other business, Kim Linck of the Manhattan-based accounting firm Varney and Associates presented the city’s 2025 financial audit report.

Linck issued an “unmodified” opinion, the highest level of assurance an audit can receive, indicating the city’s financial statements are accurate and reliable. No recommendations were made, and the council voted to accept the audit report as presented.

The council also approved a rebuild of the city’s street sweeper. City Superintendent Brian Rushe said the machine has been experiencing belt tracking problems. A mechanic from Key Equipment in Kansas City determined the conveyor cage needed replacement.

Rushe recommended moving forward with a rebuild that will include a new cage, rollers, conveyor and conveyor motor. He said the rebuilt machine should remain in service for another ten years.

Joshua Jefferson/Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--Additional details have been released in connection with an hours-long standoff Wednesday evening in Holton that began with an animal cruelty investigation.

Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says officers with the Holton Police Department and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office responded just after 5:15 p.m. to a residence on New Jersey Street.

Authorities say 36-year-old Joshua Jerome Jefferson, of Holton, allegedly dragged a dog from a neighboring yard while beating and strangling the animal. A neighbor who attempted to intervene was allegedly battered by the suspect.

When officers arrived, they reportedly observed Jefferson assaulting the neighbor. Morse says Jefferson then refused commands from officers and threatened to retrieve a weapon and force law enforcement to shoot him before barricading himself inside the home.

After several hours and repeated unsuccessful attempts to communicate with the suspect, officers entered the residence and located Jefferson hiding in a basement crawl space wrapped in a blanket. He was taken into custody around 11:30 Wednesday night.

Jefferson remains jailed in Jackson County on charges that include aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, battery, criminal damage to property, and animal cruelty. Bond has been set at 100-thousand dollars.

Assisting agencies included the Kansas Highway Patrol and the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office.

That's confirmed today, Friday, May 22, in a social media post from the City of Atchison.

Following the discussion it was decided there was not enough damage to public property to warrant an emergency disaster declaration.

Later in the meeting the Board met with Kirkendall reviewing the activity during the storm event on the 18th. Commissioner Bobby Campbell said he received messages and calls regarding the sounding of the outdoor warning sirens.

Kirkendall explained how the sirens operate and that on the 18th, there was a problem with sounding the sirens as the generator at the Courthouse was not operating and the system that runs the outdoor sirens was running on battery backup, which quit with the second round of tornado warnings that were issued in Richardson County.

A repair crew traveled through the storm and arrived in Falls City that evening to assess the situation with the generator and believe that lightning had damaged the generator during a storm the previous weekend.

Discussion was then held in regards to having a small generator to be used as a back-up to run the computer system that signals the outdoor warning sirens. No action was taken.

Jorn said progress is being made on the city audit report that needs to be submitted to the state and that he expects the auditors to be in town to complete field work. It is expected the audit will be completed sometime in August.

In a related note, Jorn said that because the audit has not been submitted, the city highway allocation funds are currently being withheld. The funds will be released once the audit report is filed with the state.

The Council later approved submitting a preapplication for a $4 million grant with the money to be used to aid water service customers in paying for their portion of replacing water service lines.

The EPA in mandating complete removal and replacement of lead and galvanized water lines and it is recommended customers replace their portion of the service to their properties as well. 60% of the grant funds may be forgiven with the 40% reimbursement passes on to water customers.

Jorn also provided an update on the status of the $5 million grant for a new electrical substation. Some additional information has been submitted which is currently being reviewed.

An application for around $5.6 million for a five year project to replace gas lines in the community has also been submitted. The total cost of the project is not yet known.

The Council also approved making a change of software for utility billing, general ledger and payroll which should be less costly than what the city is paying for current software services.

The Concert in the Sky was nominated in the USA Today 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards for 2026 and earned 5th place. Voting began April 13 and ended May 10. Votes were cast once per day from the start to the finish. 

In 2024, the Atchison fireworks earned third in the nation, followed by a fourth-place finish in 2025. 

Atchison's placement in the rankings trails displays in Addison, Texas, New York City, Detroit, Michigan, and the Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois. 

The annual 28-minute Concert in the Sky draws an estimated 30,000 visitors each year to celebrate the July 24, 1897 birth of Amelia Earhart in Atchison. The show is produced by Stellar Fireworks, Inc., of Wichita.

The 2026 Amelia Earhart Festival is scheduled for the weekend of July 17 and 18, including the ticketed kickoff concert Friday night, July 17, featuring headliner Blackhawk, with Lorrie Morgan opening. The Concert in the Sky follows a full day of activities Saturday, July 18, and is scheduled to begin around 9:30 that night after the traditional aerobatics performance, with those events free to the public at Atchison Riverfront Park near the Amelia Earhart Bridge.

The Concert in the sky is choreographed to music, simulcast on KAIR 93.7 FM, allowing synchronized listening anywhere the fireworks can be viewed.

In a release, the City of Atchison says the pool at 1201 Commercial Street is tentatively scheduled to open Saturday afternoon at 1:00. However, the city says opening day may be delayed due to low water temperature, which staff will continue to monitor. The city is asking residents to stay tuned for updates.

The city says when the pool does open, opening day will be free admission. Regular pool hours are 1:00 until 6:30 daily, with extended hours Tuesday and Thursday until 9:00.

Admission is free for ages two and under while daily admission for the season is one dollar. A 10-day punch pass is nine dollars.

NPPD has been studying possible locations for the next-generation reactor, known as a small modular reactor, or SMR — a smaller nuclear design the utility says can provide flexibility, efficiency and safety.

16 potential sites across the state were initially identified and the field now narrowed to four locations.

Thomas Kent, president and CEO of the Nebraska Public Power District, said naming the four sites is not a go-ahead announcement for construction, but a look at communities with “strong compatibility” that would meet federal siting guidelines.

The timeline for operation would be eight to 10 years until operation, according to Kent.

The study is funded through a state program launched after the Nebraska Legislature in 2022 allocated $1 million to the Nebraska Department of Economic Development for a feasibility review of siting options for advanced nuclear reactors. The department created the Nuclear Plant Siting Feasibility Study Program to administer the funding, which the state received from the federal government through the American Rescue Plan Act.

Nebraska currently has one operational nuclear facility, Cooper Station, located near Brownville.

The City's generating of power was at times unable to be started so power would not be fed back up the line to OPPD from Falls City to where personnel were working on the downed power lines.

In addition, once Falls City received the all-clear to generate power locally, there were some mechanical issues that slowed the process which lengthened the amount of time customers were without power.

City Administrator Gary Jorn told the City Council Wednesday night that the issues are being reviewed. Jorn said he feels part of the issue was changing from two work shifts at the power plant to one man shift, reduced the number of people doing maintenance from eight to four. Jorn said staffing was discussed and plans will be made concerning staffing and said that needed upgrades and to equipment and personnel will be costly.

Power was restored around 4 a.m. Tuesday morning to most Falls City Utility customers.

Susie McElroy/Credit: Chapel Oaks Funeral Home 

(KNZA)--A dedication ceremony is set Saturday morning, May 23, to officially rename the Hiawatha Aquatic Park in honor of former longtime pool manager Susie McElroy.

Hiawatha Parks and Recreation will host the dedication at 10:30 a.m. at the Aquatic Park located at 203 East Iowa Street.

The community as well as past and present Aquatic Park staff is invited to attend.  There will be a ribbon cutting, as well as donuts, giveways and more.

The Hiawatha City Commission last November approved dedicating the aquatic park in McElroy’s name in recognition of her years of service.

McElroy served as aquatic park manager from 1996-2010.

She died in 2012 after a long battle with cancer.

HCF Match Day this weekend

This Memorial Day weekend, the Hiawatha Community Foundation will host its 6th Annual “Give Back to Move Forward” Match Day, a three-day community giving event benefiting more than 50 local funds.

From Friday, May 22 through Sunday, May 24, all qualifying donations made through the Foundation will be matched 100 percent while match funds remain available. Eligible gifts are $25 to $1,000 and can be directed to participating community funds.  

Donations can be made in person at the Fisher Center in Hiawatha Friday evening from 4:00 to 7:30.  The in-person kickoff event features local organizations, complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks, and additional food available from the Country Cabin food truck. Hourly drawings will also be held, with winners directing $250 grants to participating funds.  

Online giving will be open from 12:01 a.m. Friday, May 22 through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, May 24 at Give Back To Move Forward.   

The website provides information on participating funds, a donation form, and a live leaderboard tracking contributions throughout the weekend.

Chase Wendt/Credit: Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Grantville man is facing multiple charges following a domestic incident Sunday in Jefferson County.

18-year-old Chase Wendt was arrested by the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department following the incident.

Wendt was formally charged Monday in Jefferson County District Court with two counts of aggravated assault, criminal threat, and misdemeanor counts of domestic battery, battery, and criminal damage to property.

According to court documents, Wendt is accused of threatening two individuals with a knife during the incident.

He remains in the Jefferson County Jail on a 50-thousand-dollar bond.

A preliminary hearing in the case is expected to be set during a June 11th court appearance.

Incumbent candidates for Village Board seats have until July 15 to file with an August 3rd deadline for nonincumbents to file.

Elaina J. Strecker has filed to seek reelection to another 4-year term on the Village Board in Barada.

Ricky J. Ramer of Stella has filed to run for a position on the Village Board of Stella.

Denise Koso will seek reelection as a Verdon Village Board member.

The fourth filing is an affidavit from Vincent “Vinny B” Behrens of Falls City to seek the Ward IV Council seat in Falls City as a write-in candidate.

Bing Bindrum and Rick Lemerond filed to run for the non-partisan position prior to the deadline prior to the Primary Election.

However, when a second tornado warning was issued for the Falls City area later, the sirens did not sound.

Richardson County Emergency Management Director Brian Kirkendall told MSC News that when the power was on during the first tornado warning, the sirens sounded. After the power went out in Falls City, the backup generator at the courthouse did not work.

It is believed that a lightning strike possibly occurred the previous Saturday causing an issue, which left the generator stuck in reboot mode. That left the courthouse without power and the computer system that triggers the sirens to sound, was unable to send a signal to the sirens to sound when the second tornado warning was issued.

(KAIR)--Jefferson County officials have adopted a local disaster emergency proclamation as wildfires continue to burn across western Kansas.

According to the unofficial minutes of Monday’s Jefferson County Commission meeting, Emergency Manager Keith Jeffers asked the board to sign the Disaster Resolution for, as the minutes say, "a preparation just in case something happens." The resolution, which took effect Monday, includes coverage for wildfires moving forward. 

The motion passed unanimously.

Meanwhile, wildfires continue to spread across western Kansas and have burned tens of thousands of acres. Sparked by dry thunderstorms, the fires have been fueled by extremely dry conditions and high winds, with firefighters from across the state, many of them volunteers, responding to help.

According to a release, the Fleming-Jackson-Seever American Legion Post 6 and Lt. Jared Fox Jackson VFW Post 1175 will honor their comrades by visiting Atchison-area cemeteries for Memorial Day presentations.

The VFW schedule begins Monday morning with an 8:30 gathering at the VFW Post, followed by Oak Hill Cemetery at 8:50, Mt. Vernon Cemetery at 9:10, St. Patrick’s Cemetery at 9:35, Sumner Cemetery at 10:00, Sugar Creek Cemetery in Rushville, Missouri, at 10:35, and a Veterans Park riverfront presentation at 11:00.

The American Legion schedule begins Monday morning with an 8:30 gathering at the Legion Post, followed by Lancaster Cemetery at 9:00, Effingham Evergreen Cemetery at 9:25, Effingham St. Ann’s Church Cemetery at 9:40, Sunset Memory Gardens at 10:20, and Mt. Calvary Cemetery at 10:35.

Both organizations are scheduled to join together at 11:00 Monday morning at Veterans Park at the Atchison Riverfront, near the USS Arizona Memorial, for the morning’s final presentation.

Those who wish to attend are encouraged to arrive at their cemetery of choice about 20 minutes prior to the scheduled times, as all times are approximate due to travel.

James Costello, Jr./Credit: Shawnee County Sheriff's Office   

(KNZA)--A Valley Falls man is in custody following a brief stolen-vehicle pursuit Tuesday morning in southeast Topeka.

Shawnee County Sheriff Brian Hill says the incident began around 9:40 a.m., when a deputy reported a stolen Chevrolet pickup near Southeast 21st and Southeast Pennsylvania Avenue. Deputies, along with the Topeka Police Department, moved into the area and quickly located the vehicle.

Hill says the truck fled at a high rate of speed before being found abandoned a short time later near Southeast 12th and Southeast Bellview.

The vehicle had been reported stolen out of Lawrence.

A K-9 unit tracked the suspect to an area near Interstate 70 under the Southeast Golden Avenue bridge, where officers located him running on foot.

The suspect, identified as 45-year-old James Costello Jr., was taken into custody without incident.

He was booked into the Shawnee County Jail on multiple felony charges, including fleeing law enforcement, drug possession, and possession of stolen property.

The investigation is ongoing.

Atchison City Manager Mark Westhoff/Credit: City of Atchison

(KAIR)--A City of Atchison social media post intended to recognize the City's Streets Maintenance Department during Public Works Appreciation Month sparked criticism, and City Manager Mark Westhoff is now inviting residents to bring concerns directly to him.

In a response posted to the City's official Facebook page Tuesday night, Westhoff said he was disheartened by comments made under the message of recognition posted earlier that afternoon. Westhoff, in his response, thanked the streets crew and other city employees for their daily work and professionalism.

Westhoff said concerns about employee performance should be directed to him or other city leadership, rather than aired on social media.

He also invited residents with broader questions and concerns about city services, strategies, priorities, and the city budget to set up a one-on-one meeting with him by phone or in person using an online scheduling link shared in the post and found here.

(KMZA)--Staff from the National Weather Service surveyed tornado damage Tuesday from storms that moved through northeast Kansas Monday afternoon and evening.

According to a preliminary report, an EF-1 tornado with estimated wind speeds up to 95 miles an hour touched down shortly after 4:45 Monday afternoon about four miles east of Bern in Nemaha County. The tornado traveled northeast for more than two-and-a-half miles. Damage included a barn losing parts of its roof and wall, a small barn being destroyed, and debris carried about a quarter mile.

Shortly before 5:30 p.m., another EF-1 tornado with estimated winds up to 95 miles an hour touched down about one mile east of Blue Rapids in Marshall County. The tornado traveled northwest for about 12 miles. It destroyed several grain bins and snapped large tree limbs and some tree trunks.

Then, shortly after 7:15 p.m., an EF-1 tornado with estimated winds up to 100 miles an hour touched down three miles southeast of Circleville in Jackson County. The tornado traveled northeast about eight miles. Damage included a destroyed barn and outbuilding, several large tree branches broken along its path, and windows blown out on the south-facing porch of a structure.

No injuries were reported.

Picture credit to Jr. Chaney of Rock Port, MO. football field

(KLZA)-- An extremely dangerous storm system that spawned tornadoes, produced 70-80 mph straight-line winds, brought large hail and heavy rain to Southeast Nebraska, Northeast Kansas and Northwest Missouri on Monday afternoon and evening caused extensive damage in areas but fortunately no fatalities or injuries have been reported.

Richardson County Emergency Management Director Brian Kirkendall said that a tornado that touched down more than one time beginning southwest of Salem in a pasture area, then picked up, set down just northeast of Salem, shifted direction and went straight east from the pumping stations north of Fall City and then traveled straight east damaging six residents, completely destroying an implement shed, and two garages, a tree blew onto a house and the roof was torn off of a utility shed.

Train traffic was also disrupted on the Union Pacific line at Strausville where a grain bin blew onto the Union Pacific railroad tracks bringing train traffic to a halt.

Kirkendall says his department is still looking for damage that hasn't been reported. There were a number of utility poles that were broke off by the storm system.

Kirkendall noted that as of Monday morning, the Muddy Creek north and east of Falls City is flooding some area roads.

In Auburn, Nebraska strong winds caused major damage to trees, which in turn caused damage to homes, buildings and vehicles. City Council President Nathan Seitz says the National Weather Service will be investigating to determine if the damage was done by a tornado or straight-line winds.

Seitz had high praise for the work by the Auburn Board of Public Works employees who were out all night restoring power to Auburn area residents and businesses and for the efforts by the Auburn Street Department. The Council President also praised the efforts made by the Street Department in clearing the street of limb and tree debris.

Auburn residents have been clearing trees and limbs and are asked to take them to the rodeo grounds on J Street to dispose of limbs.

Johnson and Pawnee County Emergency Management Agency Director Megan Buckley said while there was damage reported in Johnson County, there were no confirmed tornadoes.

Tree damage and power pole damage was reported and crews are continuing to search for additional damage.

There was a confirmed tornado on the ground in Pawnee County but Buckely says no damage has been reported from that storm.

Buckley is asking for residents of Johnson and Pawnee counties to report any damage to her office. Drones will be utilized to see if any damages can be found.

If you have damage in Johnson or Pawnee County, you may reports it online at the Johnson County Emergency Management Page or to a link on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/jccemg.

In Northwest Missouri, heavy rains were reported along with strong winds. The football and track around the field at Rock Port is underwater from overflow of a creek next to the field.

That comes following last week's meeting of the Board of Education when the school leaders accepted the resignation of Dr. Latisha Williams following an executive session focused on matters of personnel.

When the resignation was announced, followed by comments of gratitude from Superintendent Laura Batson for Williams, a round of applause was given in Williams' honor.

Batson, during an appearance on 93.7 FM's Co-Host Monday, said Williams resignation is due to her acceptance of an education position outside the Atchison school district. “She is absolutely a bright spot,” Batson said in reference to Williams. “I hate that she's leaving us to Shawnee Mission, but she'll represent us well. Has definitely left her mark and her fingerprint on 409, and will always be a part of the Phoenix family.”

The school board, following the executive session and just prior to the conclusion of its May 11 meeting, accepted Williams' resignation unanimously.

On Saturday, Batson helped oversee senior graduation, her first since beginning her role as USD 409 Superintendent last summer. “I love the family feel of it. I love the laughter. I love seeing the personality of the students and the staff that shown through the day, “Batson said. “I saw the oak leaf celebration tradition. I've never seen that before, and that was something really special to get to experience. And I love just how the community came together to celebrate.”

Following the graduation of just over 100 seniors, the remaining district students wrapped up the school year on Monday.

In a release, the college says anonymous flyers from a group calling itself the “Coalition of Catholics Against Jewish Supremacy” were repeatedly left on campus in late April following a conference hosted on campus exploring Church teaching on Catholic-Jewish relations.

Benedictine says the flyer attacked a faculty theologian, labeled those connected to the campus event as “antichrists,” and included language the college says suggested Jewish people, including those in the community, are less than human.

The college says students took the initiative to remove the flyers from cars in campus parking lots, and that student groups were among the first to respond. The college points to its student Latin Mass Society, which issued a statement expressing disgust and disappointment with the flyer’s contents.

The college, in regards to questions raised about possible repercussions for distributing the flyers, says any student found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct is subject to disciplinary procedures, but that process is confidential.

Benedictine says the incident has reinforced its commitment to official Catholic teaching on relations with the Jewish people, and will continue its mission of affirming the worth and dignity of each individual.

Photo credit: Hiawatha Fire Department/Facebook

Update:  The Kansas Forest Service announced Wednesday afternoon that the wildfires were contained, and members of the Brown County Wildland Fire Task Force returned home Wednesday evening.  

(KNZA)---Brown County firefighters are assisting in battling wildfires in southwest Kansas.

Brown County Emergency Management organized a Wildland Fire Task Force to assist with the growing wildfire situation in southwest Kansas. 

The team is currently being deployed to support firefighting efforts near Ashland, Kansas. The task force includes personnel from the Everest, Fairview, Robinson, and Hiawatha Fire Departments. 

In total, 10 firefighters and five fire apparatus departed early Tuesday morning to assist crews already battling the fire. 

On Monday, 17 separate fires were identified in Meade and Clark Counties. So far, the fires have burned 85,000 acres, three homes and miles of power lines.

According to the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office,  lightning strikes from recent storms could have ignited the burns, and ongoing winds threaten further spread.  

Photo credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--Two Colorado residents are facing drug and alcohol-related charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County last week. 

According to Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy stopped a Chevrolet Silverado shortly before 9 p.m. on May 13th on Q.4 Road near 158th Road for alleged traffic violations.

Morse says a probable cause search of the vehicle led to the arrest of 53-year-old Terry Miller of Lakeland, Colorado, and 40-year-old Angelina Weatherspoon of Brighton, Colorado.

Miller was arrested on charges of interference with law enforcement, possession of opiates, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container, failure to provide proof of insurance, unlawful registration acts, and driving while suspended.

Weatherspoon was arrested on charges of interference with law enforcement, possession of opiates, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and transporting an open container.

Both were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

Tornado north of Sabetha/Credit: Sabetha Fire Dept.

(MSC News)--Severe storms swept across parts of northeast Kansas and southeast Nebraska Monday afternoon and evening, producing multiple reported tornadoes, damaging winds up to 80 mph, large hail, and heavy rainfall. Forecasters had warned of a significant severe weather outbreak, with a rare “moderate risk” designation issued for the region before storms developed.

In Nemaha County Kansas,  Emergency Management Director Eddie Aldrine reported a tornado touched down about five miles northwest of Sabetha. He said it struck a few farms before moving into Richardson County, Nebraska.

Communities in southeast Nebraska reported tornado sightings in Gage, Pawnee, Richardson, and Nemaha counties. Flash flooding stranded vehicles in some areas, while emergency crews responded to downed trees, damaged power poles, and structural damage.

In the next few days, weather officials and local emergency managers are expected to conduct storm surveys to determine tornado strength and assess the extent of the damage.

There were no immediate reports of fatalities or serious injuries.

( L-R)--Jacqueline Coleman and Tomi Violett

(KNZA)--Doniphan West USD 111 has announced two new principal hires for the 2026–2027 school year following action taken during the board of education meeting on May 11th.

The district has selected Jacqueline “Jacque” Coleman as the new elementary school principal. Coleman comes to Doniphan West after nearly 16 years with Atchison Public Schools USD 409. Most recently, she has served as Director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment since July of 2024. Prior to that role, she worked as a fifth-grade teacher.

Coleman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Kansas State University and a Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Northwest Missouri State University.

The board also hired Tomi Violett as the new junior and senior high school principal. Violett brings more than 10 years of experience in education and currently serves as a kindergarten teacher at Hyde Elementary School in St. Joseph.

She earned a specialist degree in elementary and secondary principal leadership from Northwest Missouri State University.

Both new principals will officially begin their duties on July 1st.

They will replace outgoing principals Chris Lackey at the junior/senior high school and Trish Gibson at the elementary school, both of whom are resigning at the end of June.

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

A question will appear on the August 4th primary election ballot asking residents to renew the county’s current 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 generates about 600-thousand dollars annually, which is used to fund road and bridge projects across the county.

County commissioners had initially hoped to ask voters to approve an increase to five-tenths of a percent. However, that proposal was not authorized after the Kansas Senate failed to pass enabling legislation.

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

(KNZA)--A new chapter is beginning in Sabetha. The Sabetha History Center will celebrate its grand opening and ribbon cutting Friday, May 22nd at 3 p.m. at 715 Main Street. 

Festivities continue Saturday morning, with doors opening at 9 a.m. ahead of the Alumni Parade, welcoming visitors through 2 p.m.  

After opening weekend, the center will operate Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays with free admission, though donations are appreciated. 

Organizers say this is more than a museum—it’s an interactive experience designed to bring Sabetha’s history to life, inviting visitors to explore stories of innovation and imagine the town’s future.  

The former Wenger Conference Center has been transformed into what planners call Sabetha’s “front porch,” a space where history, creativity, and community come together.

Leaders hope the new center will inspire both residents and visitors, sharing the story of a small town with big ideas—and an even bigger future.

Salvation Army of Atchison County Coordinator Kim Bottoroff says the little plastic floating ducks are available for purchase in the Atchison community.

Bottoroff says the duck race is a major fundraiser for Atchison’s Salvation Army, helping provide funding for local programs of assistance. She says the duck race, along with the annual Christmas season Red Kettle Drive, is key to keeping those services in place.

This year’s duck race will be held Saturday at the Atchison Riverfront in the area of Independence Park. Activities start that morning at 10:00, with the duck launch set for the afternoon at 1:00 on the Missouri River.

Organizers say entries will be accepted up until 15 minutes before the race.

The day also includes a car show featuring cars, trucks, motorcycles, and UTVs, along with food vendors, raffle baskets, and a kids duck drop with prizes.

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.

Ricketts staff is scheduled to be in Southeast Nebraska Thursday, May 21 with stops at the Nemaha County Courthouse in Auburn from 10 – 11 a.m. and in Falls City at the Richardson County Courthouse between 2 and 3 in the afternoon.

She reported that $3,000 in funding grants through Farm Credit Services for America would be used for the food science programs and that a second grant application is pending a June notification.

Bohling also recognized Dawn Metschke for receiving the NRCSA Secondary Teacher of the Year Award. Mrs. Metschke presented updates on the ag Department and FFA Chapter which has a combined enrollment of 232 students.

Principal, Dr. Lucus Dalinghaus reported that a fundraising opportunity through Larsen Motors in Nebraska City entitled “Drive One for Your Community” will be held June 20th, during the Chicken Barbecue in Johnson, with the potential to earn $6 thousand for the Career & Technical Education programs through public vehicle test drives.

Superintendent Jeff Koehler requested the transportation committee meet in June to discuss the possibility of consolidating to three bus routes for the 2026-27 school year.

The Board also approved the appointment of Mike Casey and Irene Seeba to three-year terms on the Foundation Board of Directors.

Richardson County residents may bring tires to the Richardson County Road Department Shop in Falls City, located at 65087, 706 Trail between the hours of 7 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and again between noon at 3:30 p.m.

Tires will not be accepted at any other times.

The collection event is for Richardson County residents only. No retailers are allowed to bring tires to dispose of. No rims or tubes will be accepted . 

Drivers will need to have their drivers license or other acceptable proof of residency, know how many tires you have and where your tires came from. You should also be prepared to unload your own tires.

The scrap tire collection is paid through a grant provided by the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy.

For more information you may contact the Richardson County Road Department at 402-245-2614.

A stalled cold front combined with an upper-level disturbance moving through Southeast Nebraska and Northeast Kansas this afternoon and evening is the reason there is a chance of more severe weather.

There is a marginal to moderate risk for severe thunderstorms in Eastern Nebraska and Northeastern Kansas. That means isolated to widespread severe thunderstorms are possible. The best chance to see severe thunderstorms today will be in Southeastern Nebraska and Northeastern Kansas. 

The storm system has the potential to produce hail up to baseball size or larger, wind gusts of 75 mph or stronger with isolated to widely scattered tornadoes, some of which could be strong.

In addition, there is a flash flood watch in effect until 7 a.m. Tuesday morning that includes Richardson, Pawnee, Nemaha, Johnson, Otoe, Gage, Jefferson. Seward and Lancaster counties, in Southeast Nebraska.

Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, stream and other low-lying and flood-prone areas.

Several inches of rain have fallen over portions of southeastern Nebraska with additional rainfall expected through Tuesday morning with 1- 3 inches of rain possible.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant released the following information:

I  would like to inform county residents that we are in path of a potentially dangerous storm this afternoon into this  evening. Weather models predict that around 4pm-11pm, Brown County is on the northernmost edge of this storm. 

Predictions are for wind gusts at over 70 MPH +, baseball sized hail,  torrential rain and an increase threat of tornadoes.          
 It is very rare that weather predictions alert the public to a  potentially dangerous storm so I am asking that everyone take  this precaution seriously and lets hope for the best on this one.                                                          
 In the meantime, make sure you listen to the latest weather  forecasts, have a plan in place with your friends, families  and neighbors should you need to take shelter immediately, and  especially look out after those who live alone or who are 
 elderly or disabled. Also, don't forget your pets.            
 You may want to visit with your local city officials on where  their designated shelters are located.  The basement of the Sheriff's Office is available should      
 anyone need to shelter from the storm also.                    
                                    
 
 

John Hudson and Jason McClaine/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office 

(KNZA)--Two Hoyt men were arrested on drug charges following the execution of a search warrant Saturday evening in Jackson County.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, deputies assisted the Hoyt Police Department in locating a man with an outstanding warrant in the Hoyt area. Officers found 52-year-old Jason McClane at a residence in the 200 block of Annetta Avenue in Hoyt, where he surrendered without incident on a Denison Municipal Court warrant.

During a follow-up investigation, deputies developed probable cause for a search warrant related to suspected illegal drug activity at the home. The warrant was later approved and executed by deputies.

Inside the residence, deputies allegedly found methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. The home is located within 1,000 feet of a school.

Fifty-year-old John Hudson was arrested on multiple charges, including distribution of methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school, possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia, along with no drug tax stamp.

McClane also faces charges of possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, in addition to the outstanding municipal court warrant.

Both men were booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KNZA)--Holton USD 336 has announced it is pausing its search for a permanent Holton High School principal until later this year.

District officials say the decision comes because May is late in the administrative hiring season, and waiting until fall will allow access to a stronger pool of candidates.

The district also says the pause will give staff time to strengthen collaboration between Holton Middle School and Holton High School and support long-term planning for grades six through twelve.

For the 2026–2027 school year, Michael Kimberlin will serve as Interim 6–12 Principal, and Aaron Poston will serve as Interim 6–12 Assistant Principal. Both will support students and staff across both buildings, with Kimberlin primarily based at the high school and Poston at the middle school.

The district plans to restart the search for a permanent principal around November 2026, aligning with the peak hiring season.

Once a permanent principal is selected, Kimberlin will return full-time to his role at Holton Middle School.

(KNZA)--The Board of Education for the Atchison County Schools USD 377 has approved a resolution aimed at helping fund replacement of the district’s track facility.

During the board’s May 13th meeting, members approved seeking an additional two mills of Capital Outlay authority for a 10-year period. If approved through the required process, the district’s total Capital Outlay levy would increase to eight mills.

School officials say the current track has become a safety concern and needs replacement. To make the project financially feasible, the district plans to utilize a lease-purchase agreement, requiring the additional Capital Outlay authority.

In other business, the board discussed the upcoming sunset of the sales tax used to build the district sports complex. The tax is scheduled to expire at the end of this year, with the final bond payment made last month. Once the tax sunsets, USD 377 is expected to receive 20 percent of the remaining balance. No action was taken during the discussion.

The board also approved continued funding for the Parents as Teachers program for the 2026-27 school year. The district will continue contracting for two units of service, enough to serve up to 16 families. The cost for next year’s services will be just over 15-thousand dollars.

(KNZA)--A second candidate has filed for First District Doniphan County Commissioner.

According to the Doniphan County Clerk's Office, Roger Hopkins of White Cloud filed Friday for the position.

Hopkins joins incumbent Commissioner Timothy Collins in seeking the Republican nomination.

The commission seat is the only county office on the ballot this fall.

Candidates have until noon June 1st to file at the Doniphan County Clerk’s Office. The primary election is set for August 4th, with the general election scheduled for November 3rd.

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Your patience is appreciated.

The Board discussed moving the Alternative School back to the high school from a building in downtown Falls City.

High School Principal Ethan Sullivan has recommended the move would benefit students and the district, providing a safe space for kids and teachers. No action was taken during the meeting.

The Board also approved resignations from Joey Willette who had rescinded his contract to teach elementary music and Timothy Ellis the current elementary music teacher.

The Board approved hiring Bobbi Enniking as a 6th grade and English Language Arts instructor and Rachel Wertenberger as an Elementary Music Teacher.

Superintendent Dr. Andrew Offner recognized Gale Dunkhas for 19 years of service to District 56 in the roles of High School Principal, Assistant Principal and Activities Director.

The State Library of Kansas has announced its 2026 Kansas Notable Books selections, a list that highlights books written by Kansans or about Kansas. The State Library says the titles cover a wide range of genres and topics.

One of the 2026 selections is The Aviator and the Showman by Laurie Gwen Shapiro, an in-depth look at the life of Earhart. Shapiro, last year, was a guest during Atchison's July festival held in honor of Earhart, with the book released around that same time.

A release from the state library says the Notable Books program is intended to highlight the literary heritage of Kansas and encourage interest in books, reading, and libraries.

Each year, the Kansas Notable Books committee recommends 25 books, from which the State Librarian selects 15 as Notable Books.

Kansas Notable Books authors will be recognized and awarded medals during the Kansas Book Festival at Washburn University, Saturday, September 26.

In a release, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says an officer on patrol spotted 36-year-old Alan Kendrick early Thursday morning, around 2:30, in a parking lot in the 400 block of U.S. 59. Wilson says Kendrick was taken into custody on three district court warrants for failure to appear, and during the arrest was found to be in the alleged possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Wilson says 62-year-old Stephen Oswalt was also in the vehicle and was found to be in the alleged possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Once in custody, Kendrick and Oswalt were booked into the Atchison County Jail.

Kendrick & Oswalt/Credit: Atchison Police Dept.

(KMZA)--The Kansas Department of Commerce has announced more than 1-point-3 million dollars in Historic Economic Asset Lifeline — or HEAL — grant funding to support 15 building renovation projects across the state, including projects in Baileyville and Seneca. The funding was announced Wednesday.

Combined with nearly 3-point-9 million dollars in local matching contributions, this round of HEAL grants represents a total investment of about 5-point-2 million dollars aimed at revitalizing downtown buildings and historic structures.

In Baileyville, more than 55-thousand dollars has been awarded to help transform a historic building into a community venue designed for broader public use.

In Seneca, nearly 99-thousand dollars will support the creation of new residential space above a historic theater building.

The HEAL program provides competitive matching grants to help communities restore underused and deteriorating properties, turning them into spaces for businesses, housing, childcare, arts, civic activities, and entrepreneurship.

State officials say the goal is to strengthen rural downtown districts and encourage long-term local investment.

The program, administered by the Kansas Office of Rural Prosperity, has already helped transform — or is currently improving — more than 100 buildings in rural Kansas communities.

Richard Tesoriero/Credit: MSC News

(KNZA)--Hiawatha Republican Richard Tesoriero has officially filed to retain his seat as Brown County First District Commissioner.

According to the Brown County Clerk’s Office, Tesoriero filed Thursday and is the first candidate to enter the race.

Tesoriero was appointed last October to complete the unexpired term of former commissioner Richard Lehmkuhl following Lehmkuhl’s resignation.

In addition to the county commission race, Brown County voters will also choose someone this fall to fill the unexpired term for Register of Deeds.

Candidates have until noon on June 1st to file at the Brown County Clerk’s Office.

The primary election will be held August 4th, with the general election set for November 3rd.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha USD 415 School Board is preparing to adopt a stricter cell phone policy following new state legislation recently signed into law by Governor Laura Kelly.

Superintendent Lonnie Moser updated board members Monday night on House Bill 2299, which establishes a “bell-to-bell” ban on personal electronic communication devices in Kansas K–12 schools. The law is set to take effect September 1st.

Moser said the new requirements go beyond the district’s current policy, which already restricts cell phone use in classrooms. Under the legislation, student phones must be turned off, securely stored, and made inaccessible during the entire school day.

The bipartisan measure also prohibits school employees from using social media to communicate with students for official school purposes.  Moser said the biggest impact this will have is on coaches with student athletes as they will not be able to simply just send a text, it will instead have to be on an approved platform.

Lawmakers say the policy is intended to improve student focus and support mental health.

Each district will be responsible for creating its own enforcement procedures.

Moser said one of the biggest challenges will be storage options of the devices at the school level.  All of the storage options have potential issues and incur some type of cost.

Moser said a revised cell phone policy will be drafted for adoption by the board in July, with the policy to be implemented by September 1st.

Also at the meeting, the board approved several personnel items following an executive session.

Approved hires included Liam Jones as high school cross country coach, Adelyn Tackett as middle school cross country coach, Tyler Brockhoff as middle school head boys basketball coach, Travis Hampl as high school assistant Scholars Bowl coach, and Lexi Tollefson as high school cheer coach.

Board members also accepted the resignation of Kathy Kliewer as high school junior class sponsor.

(KMZA)--The Nemaha Central USD 115 Board of Education agreed to help students attending the national Future Business Leaders of America Conference during their meeting Monday evening.

Nemaha Central High School students Natalie Stech and Emma Niehues addressed the board requesting financial assistance to attend the national conference in San Antonio, Texas, June 29th through July 2nd.

Stech qualified for nationals in impromptu speaking, while Niehues qualified in introduction to business communication.

The board voted to provide $600 to each student, along with $600 for the sponsor, to help cover the costs of attending nationals.

In other business, the board approved school fees for the 2026-27 school year. Lunch and breakfast prices will increase by 10 cents to help offset rising food service costs.

The board also approved renewal of the annual contract with OPAA for food service management for the 2026-27 school year, along with a list of supplemental contracts as presented for the upcoming school year.

Following discussion, the Board voted unanimously to partner with UNL for a reimbursable safety study grant in an amount of up to $1.5 million with funds coming out of Inheritance Tax and reimbursement going directly back into the Inheritance Tax fund.

Safety Committee member Emily Sisco met with the Board to discuss a quote for an intercom system. A motion to approve the intercom system was defeated unanimously with Commissioners Lavon Heidemann, Jan Lang and Ron Seitz voting against the proposal.

Following a meeting with Kay Wissman with Southeast Nebraska Community Action, the Board approved a transit rate increase of 50-cents for in town rides and a $1 increase for out-of-town rides.

(KAIR)--A 65-year-old Leavenworth County man will learn his fate in July, following his conviction in Leavenworth County District Court for the murder of a neighbor.  

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Lansing resident Dennis Brockenshire, following a three-day jury trial that concluded May 13, was found guilty of first-degree murder and aggravated burglary. Brockenshire previously pleaded not guilty to the charges last December.

His sentencing hearing is now scheduled for the afternoon of July 10.   

The case stems from a June 28, 2025 call in Lansing, when police responded to a mobile home community near North Main Street and Helen Street on a report of a possible fatality involving a gunshot wound.

Thompson’s office says officers saw damage to the front door that appeared to indicate forced entry. Inside, police found the victim on a couch with no pulse and apparent gunshot wounds, with Leavenworth County EMS and the Lansing Fire Department confirming the victim was deceased.

The release says Brockenshire was identified as a possible suspect based on statements from neighbors. Thompson’s office says investigators later gathered evidence connecting him to the crime, including witness statements, ammunition comparisons, and lab reports involving gunshot residue and DNA.

Photo credit: City of Horton/Facebook

(KAIR)--Recognition is being given to the Brown County Humane Society and the work accomplished to see cats, in the city of Horton, spayed and neutered.

According to a release from the City of Horton, the society's Amanda Pilcher has trapped 34 cats within the city, seeing them spayed and neutered to reduce the population of unwanted cats.

The release says 12 of the cats were returned to Horton streets, while homes were found for the others. Additionally, the release notes, one of the cats had been lost for 8-years, but is now reunited with her owner who resides in Wichita.

For the effort, Pilcher was presented by the Horton City Commission with a $1,000 donation from the Cruelty Stoppers grant and a $1,500 donation from the City of Horton.

Deonne Stinson/Credit: Geary County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Virginia man who had been living at Fort Riley is facing first-degree statutory rape charges following an investigation involving a 13-year-old girl from Elwood in Doniphan County.

Authorities say 27-year-old Deonne Lamon Stinson is wanted in Buchanan County, Missouri, on a warrant connected to the case.

According to a probable cause statement reported by KQ2-TV, investigators allege Stinson began communicating with the victim about a month before the reported incidents. Officials say those messages escalated from general conversation to explicit content.

Police reports indicate the two met in person multiple times between May 4th and May 6th. Investigators allege Stinson picked up the girl near her home in Elwood and transported her to locations in and around St. Joseph, Missouri.

Authorities say the victim later disclosed details of the encounters during a forensic examination at Children’s Mercy Hospital. Investigators also report that digital evidence was recovered as part of the case.

Stinson was booked into the Geary County Detention Center on May 7th after authorities say he fled from justice. He is currently being held without bond.

(KNZA)--The Hiawatha City Commission has voted to restore a public comment period during its meetings following a close vote Monday evening.

By a 3–2 margin, commissioners approved reinstating public comment at the beginning of meetings. Under the new rule, residents will also no longer be required to sign up in advance to speak.

Commissioners Brian Shefferd, Tom Martin, and Dave Middendorf voted in favor of the change. Mayor Becky Shamburg and Commissioner Laura Tollefson voted against it.

During the meeting, Hiawatha resident Angela Entriken encouraged commissioners to bring back a formal public comment period. She said the change would improve communication between residents and city leaders, increase transparency, and give the public a more meaningful voice in local government.

Under the previous policy, residents could only speak on non-agenda items unless they had signed up by the Wednesday before meetings.  

In a release, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says officers responded around 6:15 Tuesday evening to an injury accident at 6th Street and Raven Hill Road. Wilson says 51-year-old Angela Dugger of Leavenworth was eastbound on Raven Hill Road in a car and turning north onto 6th Street when it collided with an SUV driven by 59-year-old Kelly Thompson of Atchison, who was southbound on 6th Street.

Wilson says Thompson was transported by Atchison County EMS to Amberwell Hospital for examination.

Credit: Atchison Police Dept.

Adam Schutte/Credit: Richardson Co Sheriff's Office

(KLZA)--A drug investigation by the Richardson County Sheriff’s Office has led to the arrest of a Falls City man on multiple felony charges.

Authorities say the investigation began May 7 and resulted in the execution of a search warrant at a residence located at 1114 Chase Street in Falls City.

Following the search, 50-year-old Adam Schutte was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of marijuana,  maintaining a drug house, two counts of possession of a deadly weapon by a prohibited person, and two counts of possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony.

Schutte remains in the Richardson County Jail awaiting a court appearance.

(KLZA)--Federal prosecutors say a Falls City man has been sentenced on a child pornography conviction.

United States Attorney Lesley Woods says 55-year-old Darren Tracy was sentenced May 8th in federal court in Lincoln for receipt of child pornography. U.S. District Judge Susan Bazis sentenced Tracy to 71 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release. Tracy was also ordered to pay six-thousand dollars in restitution to victims.

Authorities say the investigation began in March of 2024, when a Richardson County investigator discovered child pornography in a hidden photo album on Tracy’s cell phone during an unrelated investigation. Investigators later obtained search warrants for the phone and associated iCloud account.

According to court documents, investigators located more than 900 files containing child pornography, including images and videos. Metadata indicated the files were obtained between May of 2020 and December of 2023. Investigators say Tracy admitted downloading the material from the internet.

The case was investigated by the Richardson County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative.

(KNZA)--Fireworks will not be allowed within the city limits of Hiawatha this year, following a split vote by the city commission Monday night.

City Commissioner Brian Shefferd made a motion to allow fireworks on July 3rd and 4th, but the proposal failed on a 2–3 vote. Commissioner Tom Martin joined Shefferd in support of the measure. Opposing the motion were Mayor Becky Shamburg and Commissioners Laura Tollefson and Dave Middendorf.

Mayor Shamburg said she received numerous complaints following last year’s one-time approval of fireworks in the city. Commissioner Tollefson cited concerns about the impact fireworks can have on pets and veterans, and also noted that fireworks are already permitted at the City Lake.

While fireworks will not be allowed inside Hiawatha city limits, fireworks sales will still be permitted within the city.

John Umphress/Credit: Doniphan Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--An Elwood man has pleaded no contest to an amended child sex-related charge in Doniphan County District Court.

According to court documents, John Umphress entered the plea last week to aggravated indecent solicitation of a child. He had originally been charged with aggravated indecent liberties with a child.

Umphress was arrested in November of 2024 following an investigation by the Elwood Police Department.

The charge stems from an alleged incident in May of 2024 involving a child under the age of 14.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 3.

Undersheriff Robbie Parker/submitted

(KNZA)--The Brown County Sheriff’s Office recently received about 4-thousand dollars in equipment from the Kansas Department of Transportation for participating in the STEP program.

The program provides overtime funding and equipment to law enforcement agencies that take part in traffic enforcement efforts during designated times throughout the year.

The Sheriff’s Office received three traffic measuring wheels, two sets of collapsible traffic cones, six preliminary breath testers with 150 mouthpieces, and one Guardian Angel shoulder light for its participation during the last fiscal year.

Brown County Sheriff John Merchant says he appreciates the partnership with KDOT and the incentives the department receives, saying the program helps stretch their budget and benefits local taxpayers.

Hardesty defeated challenger Nick Aitken 764 votes to 580 in the Republican Primary. No Democrats sought the position so Tuesday's primary decided the race.

Unofficially just 4 votes separated the top two in the primary election of Mayor of Falls City. Kevin Malone received 374 votes, current City Council member Kenny Killingsworth received 370 votes. They will face off in the November General Election. Dennis Miller received 148 votes and Mark Galaska 26.

In the Ward II Council race in Falls City, Sean Nolte advanced to the General Election with 105 votes. Robert D. Olberding received 79 votes to advance. Terry Kermoade received 67 votes.

The only other contested race in Richardson County was for Mayor of Humboldt. Kevin Burnison received 118 votes, incumbent Jan Wilhelm will advance to November with 56 votes. Ted Schuler had 25 votes and James Cherry 12.

In Pawnee County, the only contested race in the Primary Election was for the Republican nomination for District 2 County Commissioner. Joshua Black received 86 votes, Gavin McHenry 67, Brad Stake 18 and Chris Nicholas 12.

In Nemaha County Nebraska, in the District 3 race for the Republican nomination for County Commissioner Kim Buchmeier received 235 votes, Incumbent Michael Weiss 201 votes, Marvin Bohling 50 votes and Philip Gerdes 21.

In Auburn the field of candidates for Mayor of Auburn was narrowed to two. Stephanie Holmes received 432 votes, incumbent Mayor Chris Erickson 286, Allen Linden 59 and Gary Nerison 22.

Incumbent Angelo Ligouri was defeated for the Republican nomination for Nemaha County Attorney. Seth Hawkins of Cook received 733 votes and Ligouri 388. There were no Democrats seeking the seat.

In Peru, voters cast their ballots in a recall effort of Peru City Council President Theresa Westfall. 66 voters cast ballots to retain Westfall in office with 42 votes cast in favor of the recall.

In Johnson County, Deputy County Clerk Nicole Beck received 445 votes and County Assessor Terry Keebler received 146 votes on the Republican ticket for County Clerk. Kathleen Nieveen has decided to retire and did not seek re-election

In the Republican race for District 3 County Commissioner, Channing Doeden received 119 votes, Mike Buss 78 and Wayne Snyder 29.

Current 3rd District Commissioner Les Agena did run for reelection.

(KAIR)--A Leavenworth woman was killed early Tuesday afternoon in a fiery crash on Interstate-35 in Johnson County.

According to a report from the Kansas Highway Patrol, 43-year-old Rhiannon Rodriguez was driving southbound when her SUV left the roadway and went into a ditch.  The vehicle struck a tree and concrete embankment before coming to rest and catching fire shortly after 12:15 p.m.

A 33-year-old Leavenworth man who attempted to save Rodriguez from the burning vehicle was transported to the hospital with suspected minor injuries.

(KNZA)--Hiawatha city crews will handle utility installation for a planned new housing development west of Bruning Park.

The City Commission voted four-to-one Monday evening to move forward with having city crews install the water and sewer lines for the project instead of contracting the work out. Commissioner Brian Shefferd cast the lone dissenting vote.

Public Works Director Dominic Grier told commissioners he’s comfortable with city crews doing the work.

City Administrator Brad Scott said using city crews instead of a contractor will save the city about 150-thousand dollars.

Scott added the city will still need to hire someone to handle construction observation, which is required by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for the sewer installation.

The utility installation is expected to take about a month to complete.

Diego Galaviz-Lopez/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Kansas City, Missouri man is facing multiple charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

Sheriff Tim Morse says a deputy pulled over a GMC Yukon Monday afternoon around 4:15 on U.S. 75 Highway near 118th Road.

During the stop, deputies conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle and reportedly found open containers of alcohol, drug paraphernalia, and cocaine.

The driver, 29-year-old Diego Galaviz-Lopez of Kansas City, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the Jackson County Jail on charges including possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, transporting an open container of alcohol, and driving without a valid driver’s license.

The passenger, 28-year-old Ramon Aguilera Rodriguez, also of Kansas City, Missouri, was arrested and booked into the jail on a charge of transporting an open container of alcohol.

(KNZA)--First District Doniphan County Commissioner Timothy Collins is seeking another four-year term in office.

According to the Doniphan County Clerk’s Office, the Highland Republican officially filed for re-election Monday.

At this point, Collins does not face any opposition.

The commission seat is the only county office on the ballot this fall.

Candidates have until noon June 1st to file at the Doniphan County Clerk’s Office. The primary election is set for August 4th, with the general election scheduled for November 3rd.

(KAIR)--A Saturday evening traffic stop in Atchison left a St. Joseph, Missouri woman facing drug and traffic related charges.

In a release, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says an officer on patrol conducted a stop shortly before 8:00 Saturday evening in the 700 block of Kearney Street for a traffic violation. Wilson says 26-year-old Mikaylah Ramirez was found to be in the alleged possession of controlled substances.

Wilson says Ramirez was arrested for alleged possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia, along with several traffic charges.

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

Credit: Atchison Police Dept.

(KAIR)--Following an active Atchison weekend, including Saturday's Porchfest and Sunday's annual Mothers Day Atchison Kiwanis Flea Market, additional seasonal events are in the works, including a 40th anniversary celebration of the Atchison Train Club of the Northeast Kansas Railroaders.

That's set to happen Saturday, May 30, with a celebration from 2 to 5:00 that afternoon at 200 South 10th Street. Becky Geiger serves as Committee Chair and says all are invited. "We've been in existence since 1986. We're celebrating May 30. Our theme is Tracks, Trains, and Traditions Celebrating Forty Years. And we hope everyone can join us for a one day railroad anniversary celebration at our little mini train down behind Taco John's and at the Santa Fe Depot museum."

Geiger says a number of family-friendly activities are planned through the day. "We're gonna have train rides," Geiger says, adding that, "We have commemorative train tickets. You can go to our website, get a free ticket to ride. And if you bring that to our information booth, we will give you the commemorative ticket. We've got kids and adult activities. There's a coloring contest. You can go to our Facebook page or our website and download the coloring pages and color those. You can bring those entries back into the Taco Johns. Those will be judged ahead of time, so we need those in by May 16."

Those completed coloring pages will be displayed Saturday, and judged through a People's Choice Award.

One highlight of the day will be a special prize awarded to whoever poses the correct question to the correct person. "We're having you ask anybody you meet, are you the Atchison and Western conductor that day? And if so, then they will give you a token to bring back to our information booth for a prize."

A train-themed photo opportunity is also included among the planned activities.

Entrance is free, but all donations are welcome. The Atchison Train Club, whose goal for its 40-years is the preservation of the railroading traditions that helped shape northeast Kansas, is fully funded through donations, and any will be accepted Saturday as well as at any other time.

A release from the KBCA names Jake Spalding and Chris “Boz” Boswell of the MSC Radio Group as the 2026 Media Sportscasters of the Year. The honor recognizes their work promoting and covering high school student-athletes across the region.

The release notes the pair co-host the Scoreboard Show with Jake and Boz on Kanzaland Radio, airing every Friday evening from the week before Labor Day through the first Friday of March. The show features final scores, game recaps, highlights, interviews, analysis, and in-depth discussion of local teams and leagues.

The release also highlights their weekly game ball feature from the 2025 to 2026 season, recognizing one local girls and one local boys athlete each Friday night, with listener nominations helping drive the selections. The release says they often follow up by visiting schools to deliver the game balls in person.

Spalding, Vice President and Owner of the MSC Radio Group, said, “The weekly game ball was especially fun due to the fact it was driven by the listeners,” Spalding said. “Those that made it onto Boz’ list made it there because someone cared enough to nominate them.”

“This award is really about the kids, the coaches, and the communities we get to cover,” Spalding continued. “We’re incredibly grateful to the KBCA and proud to help tell the stories of our student athletes and their communities, because they deserve every ounce of our effort.”

Boswell added, “There is nothing like Friday nights and the passion across our area. We are lucky to be a small part of it, and this recognition means a lot.”

The award will be presented at Kansas Wesleyan University in Salina on the evening of Saturday, June 20. The girls game is scheduled for 6:00, followed by the boys game at 8:00., with the award presentation set for halftime of the boys game.

Weishaar, in a release, says crews were called around 7:50 Sunday evening to 1301 North 4th Street, the Homestead Assisted Living Facility, formerly Vintage Park, where they found staff in the process of evacuating residents as a precaution.

Weishaar says crews traced the odor to a gas stove, but no active gas leaks were detected, and monitoring equipment confirmed there were no dangerous readings inside the facility. Firefighters used ventilation fans to clear the odor, and residents were able to return safely.

Weishaar, in the release, commended facility staff for their quick actions and adherence to safety protocols.

According to a release from Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie, deputies responded around 12:30 Saturday afternoon to a report of an injury accident on River Road near the Leavenworth County line. Laurie says 55-year-old Rita Ready of Kansas City, Kansas was driving the ATV, with a 17-year-old girl from Hartville, Missouri as the passenger, and both reported injuries.

Laurie says Atchison County EMS and Rescue and Leavenworth County responders assisted at the scene.

Ready was transported by Atchison County EMS, and the 17-year-old passenger was transported by Leavenworth County EMS to Providence Hospital for the treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

During the Primary Election the number of candidates for positions are narrowed down if required for the November General Election. Contested races on Tuesday will include:

In Richardson County:

Two Republican candidates are seeking the position of Sheriff.

Incumbent Rick Hardesty Jr. who has served as Sheriff since 2019 is being challenged by Nick Aitken. Aitken is currently a member of the Falls City Police Department and a former Deputy Sheriff in Richardson County.

In Falls City 4 people have filed to run for Mayor. The two receiving the most votes will advance to the November General Election. Candidates are Mark Galaska, Kenny Killingsworth, Kevin Malone and Dennis Miller. Incumbent Mark Harkendorff withdrew from the race in February.

Three people are running for an open seat on the City Council in Falls City in Ward II. Terry Kermoade, Sean Nolte and Robert Olberding are running with the top two advancing to the General election.

Other contested races in Richardson County include: Mayor of Humboldt. Kevin Burnison, James Cherry, and Ted Schuler seek to unseat incumbent Jan Wilhelm.

All other school board, council positions and County officials do not have contested races in the Primary Election.

Pawnee County has just one contested race in the Primary Election.

Republicans filing for District 2 County Commissioner:

Gavin McHenry; Chris Nicholas, Brad Stake and Joshua Black. Incumbent Ron Seitz did not seek reelection.

In Nemaha County Nebraska the contested races will include:

District 3 County Commissioner:

Republican Candidates: Marvin Bohling of Johnson, a former Nemaha County Commissioner; Kim Buchmeier of Auburn; Philip Gerdes from Auburn and Incumbent Michael Weiss from Johnson.

In Auburn, Four people seek the position of Mayor:

Incumbent, Chris Erickson; Stephanie Holmes, Allen Linden and Gary Nerison.

Two Republican candidates are seeking the position of Nemaha County Attorney. Incumbent Angelo Ligouri of Auburn is challenged by Seth Hawkins of Cook.

In addition, enough valid signatures were collected to place a recall election on the ballot for Peru City Council President Theresa Westfall. Voters will be asked to vote to retain or recall Westfall on Tuesday.

In Johnson County contested races will include:

Three Republicans are seeking the 3rd District County Commissioners seat. Mike Buss, Channing Doeden and Wayne Snyder.

Incumbent Les Agena did not seek reelection.

Two Republicans are also seeking the position of Johnson County Clerk. Nicole Beck the current Deputy County Clerk and Terry Keebler who is currently the Johnson County Assessor and served 12 years as a Johnson County Commissioner.

Current County Clerk Kathleen Nieveen has opted to retire at the end of 2026.

The polls are open from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. in Nebraska on Tuesday.

Eggers got involved when her son Colton, who suffers from epilepsy was diagnosed and medicine available did not seem to help combat the boys seizures.

Eggers spoke to about a dozen audience members at Smiley Bee Coffee & Sweet Shop in Falls City Wednesday evening outlining the history of the effort to legalize medical marijuana and explaining where the road blocks are to complete the task.

Eggers said the effort to legalize medical cannabis began back in 2014 when patients, caregivers and parents identified Nebraska lacked in medical cannabis access.

Following years of attempts to get the proposal on the ballot, it was overwhelmingly approved by Nebraska voters in 2024, with more than 70 percent of those casting votes in favor.

Despite the overwhelming vote to pass medical marijuana, Eggers said there are factions at the state and federal level fighting against the use. The opposition includes Senator Pete Ricketts, Governor Jim Pillen, the Nebraska Attorney General and the Nebraska Legislature who have taken a hands-off approach.

Although you cannot legally access medical marijuana in Nebraska, Eggers pointed out that it is legal to possess medical cannabis with written recommendations from a health care provider. LB-437 passed by voters in 2024 was signed into law by the Governor which allows possession of up to 5 ounces of cannabis in any form with a written recommendation from a medical provider.

Even with possession being legal, there is currently no way for those who need medical cannabis to access it legally in Nebraska.

Eggers has traveled the entire state in her efforts and says response has been very positive no matter the size of the community they visit. She says people are angry and continuing to suffer without access to the product.

Eggers concluded with a message for Nebraska voters to cast ballots for individuals who will represent you and what you care about. She said the Governor, Senator Ricketts and the Attorney General and legislators are not representing what their constituents have voted for.

Eggers urges those who support the use of medical cannabis in Nebraska to write, call or email you state senator, the Governor's office, the Attorney General and Federal delegates as well as the Nebraska Medical Cannabis Commission.

Re-arrangements will begin May 26th and construction will start in June. Building plans submitted to the City of Falls City indicates an investment of about  $1,130,000. That figure does not include parking lot and sidewalk upgrades to be completed at the conclusion of the interior remodel.

Hy-Vee says this conversion reflects Hy-Vee's long-term commitment to servicing Falls City and the strengthening access to local grocery options.

The upgraded store will include new and expanded services designed to better meet everyday shopping needs while maintaining the convenience of a neighborhood grocery store.

Planned improvements include a 20-foot full-service meat counter offering expanded selections. A broader selection of national and regional name-brand grocery items. A limited service deli counter offering prepared sandwiches, pizza and rotisserie chicken. A specialty candy shop within the store and additional refrigerated and frozen food space.

A bakery with cake decorator will be added as part of a full-service Hy-Vee format to compliment, not replace, the local strong bakery already serving Falls City.

The store's leadership will remain local, with Clint Sailors serving as Store Director of the new Hy-Vee in Falls City. The expanded store offering is expected to create 5 new full-time postions and as many as 30 new part-time positions.

The conversion of the Dollar Fresh Market to a full-service Hy-Vee is viewed as a key step in maintaining strong local retail services and supporting the overall vitality of Falls City's business environment.

(KNZA)--A Friday evening Jackson County traffic stop left a Topeka woman facing 22 alleged felony offenses, along with additional misdemeanor and traffic-related violations. 

According to a release from Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, a deputy stopped a Dodge Charger near 142nd Road and U.S. Highway 75 around 6:17 Friday evening for multiple alleged traffic violations.

Morse says the driver was 38-year-old Kendra Gable.  Morse says a sheriff’s office K-9 was deployed during the stop and alerted to the presence of illegal drugs in the vehicle. A probable-cause search allegedly resulted in the discovery of illegal drug contraband. 

The release lists felony allegations including possession of methamphetamine, interference with law enforcement by concealing, altering, or destroying evidence in a felony case, trafficking contraband into a correctional facility by introducing items onto jail grounds, and multiple alleged violations of the Kansas Offender Registration Act, including eight aggravated counts and 11 additional counts. The release also lists allegations including possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended, and no proof of insurance. 

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

Scott Miller/Credit: CMH

(KMZA)--Community Memorial Healthcare in Marysville has appointed Scott Miller as Interim Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.
Miller brings more than 42 years of experience in public accounting, including over 20 years serving hospitals ranging from critical access facilities to behavioral health organizations.
Throughout his career, he has held senior financial leadership roles, guiding hospitals through complex financial environments, operational improvements, and strategic planning initiatives.
His areas of expertise include budgeting, financial analysis, forecasting, KPI development, cash-flow planning, and financial reporting.
“I am excited to join Community Memorial Healthcare at such an important time,” Miller said. “CMH is a good, solid critical access hospital with tremendous potential. Like many rural hospitals, it faces challenges, but I see great opportunity here and look forward to being part of the team working to address them.”
Miller lives in Arlington, Texas, and in his downtime enjoys running and staying active in church affairs. He is the proud father of three daughters and an adoring grandfather to seven grandchildren.
Miller joins Community Memorial Healthcare through its partnership with Ovation Healthcare, which provides experienced interim leadership and shared services to support independent hospitals.

(KNZA)--A Holton man was injured in a two-vehicle crash Sunday evening in Leavenworth County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 44-year-old Jim McClintock was westbound on Interstate 70 shortly after 9:00 p.m. when his car rear-ended a van traveling in the outside lane.

McClintock, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was transported to the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City with suspected serious injuries.

The driver of the van, 83-year-old Clifton Geis Junior of Gardner, suffered possible injuries but was not taken to a hospital for treatment. The Patrol says Geis was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

(KAIR)--An Atchison man faces charges following his arrest Thursday after a disturbance call alleging that a family member at the residence had been threatened with a knife.

In a release, Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson says officers responded around 7:30 Thursday morning to a disturbance in the 1000 block of Parallel Street.

Wilson says 33-year-old Jonathan Ogletree Jr. allegedly threatened a family member with a knife, and was taken into custody at the scene on a charge of aggravated assault.

Credit: Atchison Police Dept.

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

No injuries are reported.

Brian Shefferd/Credit: city of Hiawatha

(KNZA)--Hiawatha City Commissioner Brian Shefferd has filed for the position of mayor.

Shefferd is the first candidate to file for the office currently held by Becky Shamburg. He ran unsuccessfully against Shamburg in 2022.

Also up for election this fall is Hiawatha City Commission Seat One, currently held by David Middendorf. Mitch Bruning has filed for that position.

All city commission positions are non-partisan.

In Brown County, voters will also decide the First District County Commission seat, currently held by Richard Tesoriero, along with the unexpired term for Register of Deeds.

In Fairview, the mayor’s position and two city council seats will be on the ballot.

Candidates have until noon June 1st to file at the Brown County Clerk’s Office.

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

(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council has approved continued funding for United 4 Youth following the organization’s annual report presented at the Council’s May 6th meeting.
United 4 Youth President Cody Steinlage, along with Nemaha Central High School SADD representatives Ellie ermesch and Brooklyn Uphaus, updated the Council on ongoing efforts. The organization partners with local SADD chapters across Nemaha County, focusing on prevention programs that encourage youth to make positive decisions and avoid destructive behaviors.  
After the presentation, the Council voted to maintain its annual contribution at $3,000, matching last year’s funding level.  
In other business, the Council approved two street closure requests. One will close Pioneer Street between 4th and 5th Streets for the Father Arul Memorial 5K on August 15th. The other closes a portion of 5th Street for Second Saturday Music events scheduled for May 9th, June 13th, and September 12th, from 4 to 9 p.m.  
The Council also approved the hiring of two summer maintenance workers. Derek Rosenberger will be paid $14 an hour, and Graham Korber will earn $13.50 an hour.

Over the decades, the company has grown from a small livestock operation into a diversified enterprise supporting agriculture, food production, and pet industries through integrated services such as milling, transportation, pet treat manufacturing, extrusion, contract packaging, and ingredient solutions.

Fairview Mills LLC is nearing completion and will open a first of its kind animal protein meal refinement and blending facility in Falls City, Nebraska.

The new 63,000 square foot facility represents a significant advancement in post render processing for pet food ingredients and is expected to create 8 to 10 new full time jobs, with roughly half of those positions being salaried roles.

The investment brings both economic impact to the local community and technological progress to the pet food supply chain.

This expansion reflects J Six’s focus on helping customers strengthen their businesses through improved nutrition, enhanced value, and more reliable supply chains.

The facility incorporates a fully integrated system featuring advanced foreign matter removal, controlled refinement processes, and precision custom blending. These innovations are designed to optimize protein utilization, improve nutritional consistency, and reduce variability in finished products.

As a result, the facility can deliver a sustainable and scalable supply of animal/poultry protein meals with higher protein content, improved digestibility, and lower ash levels than what is commonly available to premium pet food manufacturers today.
This expansion responds directly to growing industry demand for ingredient transparency, consistent nutritional performance, and stronger safeguards against contamination risks. By shifting from availability driven sourcing to specification driven manufacturing, Fairview Mills is enabling the consistent production of customized animal protein ingredients that meet defined physical and nutritional standards.
Troy Kramer, VP of Sales, and Business Development says “The facility is designed for quality, consistency, and speed with state-of-the-art real time ingredient analysis throughout the entire system. Our process enhances already premium ingredients from the animal and poultry food chains. We are excited to bring this much needed service to the Heartland of the United States, and Pet Food Manufactures nationwide.”

Falls City Sanitation has been providing the service for many years. The only other bid submitted was from Hamilton Recycling and Disposal of Falls City.

City Administrator Gary Jorn said the Management Committee recommendation was to award the bid to Falls City Sanitation after comparing the various aspects of the bids.

Council member Joe Buckminster made a motion to award the bid to Hamilton Recycling and Disposal. Buckminster said while he appreciates the years of service by Falls City Sanitation, he felt despite a higher price, it would be good to move forward for the future with a young entrepreneur.

Buckminsters motion died for a lack of a second.

After comparing the dollars on the various aspects of the service, the Falls City Sanitation bid was described as substantially less.

Council members Buckminster and Kenny Killingsworth voted against the motion to award the bid to Falls City Sanitation. Council member Derek Leyden was absent from the meeting.

In other business during the meeting Administrator Jorn reported that information for the Fiscal Year 24-25 audit has been submitted to the auditor and that field work by the auditor would be taking place this week.

(KAIR)--Two gold valor awards were presented this week to Atchison Police for actions taken during a hostage standoff last year.

According to a release from Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson, the awards were presented during the Kansas Association of Chiefs of Police Valor Awards Program Wednesday evening in Mulvane. Master Patrol Officer Wyatt Richardson and the Atchison Police Department Special Response Team each received gold awards tied to a January 24, 2025 incident in the 500 block of North 9th Street.

Wilson says officers responded to a reported armed break-in at an apartment complex, with Richardson the first officer on the scene. As he exited his patrol vehicle, police say multiple shots were fired at him from a suspect on a second-story porch, striking Richardson’s vehicle multiple times, though he was not hit. Wilson says Richardson held position to secure the perimeter and helped multiple residents, including a small child, get out of an adjoining apartment and out of harm’s way.

Wilson says the suspect then barricaded inside an apartment and it was later determined a person known to the suspect was being held hostage. Atchison Police activated its Special Response Team and worked alongside Kansas Highway Patrol and Kansas Bureau of Investigation special response teams to evacuate more residents and negotiate a surrender. Wilson says after additional gunfire during the hours-long standoff, officers rescued the hostage shortly after 2:00 the next morning, and the suspect was shot following a confrontation during the rescue.

Wilson says Atchison Police, the KHP, and the KBI special response teams were each recognized with gold awards, with the ceremony noting the collaborative effort that resulted in the safe rescue of the hostage and residents.

(KNZA)--Brown County will hold its first delinquent tax sale in several years on May 20th.

The sale begins at 11 a.m. in the lobby of the Brown County Courthouse.

A total of 88 parcels are scheduled to be auctioned. Properties eligible for the sale are those with delinquent taxes for at least three years.

Property owners may redeem property up until the close of business on May 19th by paying all taxes, fees, and costs in full.

Anyone wishing to bid must register with the Brown County Treasurer’s Office by 4 p.m. on May 19th.

A complete list of properties and additional details is available on the Brown County website.

(KNZA)--Republican Doug Fisher of rural Holton has filed for the First District seat on the Jackson County Commission. 

That word from the Jackson County Clerk's Office.   The seat is currently held by Mark Pruett.   

Fisher is the only candidate who has filed so far for the position. 

In addition to the county commission race, positions three and five on the Holton City Commission will also be on this year’s ballot. Those seats are non-partisan. 

Candidates have until noon on June 1st to file at the Jackson County Clerk's Office.  The primary election is scheduled for August 4th, followed by the general election on November 3rd.

The meeting will be held at the Craig R-III School District. Attendees are welcome to come any time between 4-6 p.m. No formal presentation will be made. The meeting will allow the public to share their thoughts and concerns about the project and to provide comments, either directly to the engineers or through a comment form.

If you are unable to attend the open house meeting, two other opportunities for public comment are available through Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

The SENCA Board would like to have groups stock the Little Free Pantry on a biweekly basis.

There is a sign-up in Sign-up Genius for businesses, organizations, clubs and groups to reserve a two-week period and stock the pantry.

The Little Free Pantry was created in 2018 by the “Role Model Group” in Falls City.

The joint teams will survey storm damage that occurred April 23 through April 28 in preparation for a potential request for federal disaster assistance.

Governor Kehoe said. “Initial damage reports have shown a clear need for a formal review by FEMA as part of the federal disaster declaration process.”

Joint PDAs are being requested for FEMA Individual Assistance in Clay, Gentry, Greene, Holt, Randolph, and Saline counties after almost 200 uninsured homes and businesses sustained major damage or were destroyed. Individual Assistance would allow eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses.

The assessments do not include every affected home or business, but those who have experienced storm-related damage should report it to their local emergency management agency. Additional joint damage assessments may be conducted in more Missouri counties as additional information is documented locally.

Requesting joint PDAs is one of the first steps the state must take to request the President declare a federal Major Disaster. For Public Assistance, both state and county thresholds would need to be met in order for a county to be included in the request.

City Administrator Gary Jorn explained the piece of equipment is very important. When waste arrives at the wastewater treatment plant, the waste is ground up and then pumped throughout the system.

The current grinder is 11 years old.

Public Works Director Trevor Campbell discussed the grinder issue with the Board of Public Works which opted to purchase a new grinder in an amount of $79,910 from JCI Industries in Lincoln versus spending $25 thousand to refurbish the current grinder.

Due to the unreliability of the current grinder, employees are required to don safety gear and climb down into the pit to clean out the screens to keep the facility operating.

Cassandra Tangen is a mathematics instructor and director of the honors program at Peru State College. She is being recognized as the 2026 Teaching Excellence Award winner for her exceptional commitment to teaching excellence, student mentorship, and academic leadership.

Tangen teaches a wide range of courses from college algebra and statistics to upper-level offerings such as introduction to real analysis, advanced statistics, and mathematical modeling—demonstrating both deep disciplinary expertise and ability to make complex concepts accessible to students of all backgrounds.

Formerly known as Cassie Leanord, she graduated from Fairbury High School before earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Peru State College in 2014. While at PSC, Tangen was a member of the Bobcat cross country team. She received her master’s in mathematics from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and has been a member of the Peru State College staff since the fall of 2017.

In its announcement, Moody’s cited Kansas’ improved governance profile, including maintenance of budget reserves and increased pension contributions. Moody’s also pointed to the state’s Budget Stabilization Fund and ending balances, a reduction in debt obligations, and recent tax policy changes it described as manageable if the state follows statutory guardrails and continues revenue monitoring.

Governor Laura Kelly, in a separate release, said the outlook change reflects steps taken by the state in recent years, including building reserves, using surplus funds for one-time projects, and paying bills on time. The governor also said maintaining fiscal discipline remains important.

Moody’s also affirmed ratings on certain state-related bonds, including Kansas Department of Transportation highway revenue bonds and state general fund-backed bonds that are subject to annual legislative appropriation. Moody’s said the positive outlook reflects expectations that Kansas will likely maintain reserves and continue full pension contributions.

A joint effort of Kansas Wildlife & Parks, the Atchison Family YMCA/Cray Community Center, and the Boy Scouts, the fishing clinic will run from 8:00 Saturday morning until 1:00 that afternoon and is open to children aged 6 through 12.

The clinic is free and lunch will be provided.

Wildlife & Parks will provide both fishing poles and bait for the children attending, either to improve their fishing skills or to learn how to do so for the first time.

(KAIR)--Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie will not appear for a court-ordered deposition regarding the status of John Calhoon, who serves both as 2nd District Atchison County Commissioner and Jackson County Undersheriff.

It's those dual roles that led to the March 10 filing of a Petition in Quo Warranto by Atchison County Attorney Sheri Becker, citing state law, challenging Calhoon's holding of the two positions. As Calhoon has not voluntarily stepped down from either, the petition seeks a court ruling to force that decision.

In April, Atchison County Sheriff Jack Laurie was subpoenaed by Calhoon's counsel to appear for a deposition, with the subpoena requiring all communications involving Laurie discussing the status of Calhoon.

Laurie's counsel, on April 24, filed a motion to dismiss the subpoena, saying that while Laurie is not a party in the case, he has already provided the requested communications. Calhoon's counsel, on May 5, filed a motion to withdraw the subpoena which Laurie's motion to dismiss called "an attempt to annoy, embarrass, or oppress Sheriff Laurie in retaliation for his speech."

In the motion to dismiss, Calhoon's counsel requests that "Laurie be relieved of appearing for his deposition at this early stage of the litigation," but adds that Calhoon will "seek a new subpoena at the appropriate time if the testimony of [Laurie] is later deemed necessary."

Calhoon was appointed to the vacant Commission seat as the outcome of a January Atchison County GOP convention. He was sworn into the role in February following a review of his appointment by the Kansas Governor and Secretary of State.

Photo credit: Project Atchison

Atchison resident Jeff Schuele fills dual roles for Porchfest in his positions as both a member of Project Atchison, organizers of the event, and as Executive Director of Live Well Atchison County. "I'm a member of Project Atchison, and we've got Porch Fest coming up, our 5th annual. So that's two to six this Saturday. The weather's looking great," adding, "That's got, like, over 20 bands. I think it was, like, 21, 22," Schuele said, explaining, "We had to turn away bands. It's really morphing into something where people are looking forward to it every year. We'll be scattered up on 4th Street from Kearney up to Unity."

A pre-show, so to speak, will happen prior to the start of Porchfest, with Schuele saying family friendly music will be heard from the steps of Atchison's Muchnic Gallery, located at 704 North 4th Street, from 1 until 2:00 Saturday afternoon. "His name is Roy Moy III. He's an aerospace engineer. He flies, but he's also a recording artist, and he sings kids songs. He does that with, like, STEM, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We've been working with Stephanie Affield at Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum. [The Amelia Earhart] Birthplace museum's involved with this too, Forest of Friendship, Art Museum. This is second year in a row we partnered with the Earhart Museum. We were able to get a good grant, some donations for it. That'll be from one to two at the Muchnic [Gallery, 704 North 4th Street]. So, on the front porch and those steps, he's just gonna sing songs, plus some demos, from one to two."

Bounce houses, games, artists, and a beer garden are all included as part of Atchison's Porchfest Saturday, with live music to range from country, folk, and jazz to alternative rock.

(KAIR)--Atchison County, in its ongoing stated goal of transparency and expanded communication, will host the second of its recently introduced "Conversation With the County" listening series.

Atchison County Commission Chair Casey Quinn delivered that message during Tuesday's meeting of the County Commission, saying the session has been scheduled to precede this month's annual township meeting in Effingham. "We confirmed with the Effingham Blue Building that it will be available prior to our Township Meeting," Quinn said. So, on May 20 from 4:30 to 6:00, county leaders will be at the Blue Building in Effingham for round two of Conversations With the County. So please come out and join us at the Blue Building, bring questions, and just visit with leadership to learn more about what's happening in Atchison County. Followed by that will be our annual township meeting beginning at 6:00." 

The first "Conversations with the County" took place last month in Atchison, drawing what Quinn at the time called a strong turnout and a wide range of feedback from residents.

County leaders from across Kansas are Atchison bound, with Atchison County selected to host the annual county leaders conference next year.

Quinn delivered that message Tuesday, telling her fellow Commissioners during that morning's meeting the selection as local host came through the assistance of the Executive Director of the Atchison Area Chamber of Commerce. "Working collaboratively with Jill Thorne from the Atchison Chamber, we were able to make an announcement to the Kansas County Commissioners Association at their conference that Atchison County will be hosting the conference in 2027. Really excited to bring all the Kansas County commissioners to Atchison County to show them everything we have going on here and make them feel welcome and have our conference here. So that's exciting. Very much appreciate Jill's help on that."

Quinn, elected to the Kansas Association of Counties Governing Board, had her first in person meeting last week.

(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission received an update Monday on a new patriotic banner project designed to honor local veterans.

The initiative will place banners on 16 lamp posts around the Brown County Courthouse Square. Commissioner Richard Tesoriero is leading the effort and says the goal is to give residents a way to recognize family members and loved ones who served in the military by purchasing commemorative banners.

Each banner will cost $150, and the project also requires about $3,200 for mounting brackets. The city of Hiawatha has agreed to help with installation, and local scouting groups are expected to assist as well.

Tesoriero says the plan is to have at least two banners completed and installed by Memorial Day weekend as a preview of the full project.

He says the idea was inspired after visiting the Jackson County Courthouse, where a similar veterans banner program is already in place.

(KNZA)-Doniphan County officials took a closer look at two courthouse projects during their meeting Monday.

First, members of the Freedom Rock Foundation outlined plans to install a 23-thousand-pound granite “Freedom Rock” in the courthouse courtyard to honor local veterans. Painting of the monument is scheduled for late September of 2026. Commissioners toured possible locations but held off on a final decision until more details on installation are available.

The Commission also revisited the courthouse steps and handrails project, which has faced delays since it was approved in 2024. New handrails were recently installed, but one section did not match the existing design. After discussion, the contractor agreed to redo the railing at no additional cost to the county.

Officials also raised concerns about the snow-melting system in the courthouse steps, which has not worked for the past two winters. The contractor says repairs are now complete, the system is fully operational, and the warranty has been extended through 2032. Documentation confirming proper materials were used will also be provided.

(KNZA)--Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse says most law enforcement radio traffic will soon be encrypted under federal rules tied to FBI crime databases.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation now requires agencies using Criminal Justice Information Services systems to protect sensitive information—such as names, birth dates, and warrant status—by encrypting radio transmissions.

Morse says agencies that fail to comply could lose access to those FBI systems.

As a result, most sheriff’s office communications will no longer be available on public scanners. Fire and EMS traffic will remain open for now, along with some non-sensitive law enforcement channels.

Morse says he understands the public interest in scanner traffic, but adds that encryption is necessary to protect privacy and keep criminals from monitoring officers in real time.

The move comes as Jackson County continues upgrading its radio system and follows similar changes by nearby law enforcement agencies.

The sheriff’s office says it will continue sharing information through news releases and social media.

EDGE Executive Director Lucas Froeschl explained that while some language in the agreement mentions a data center load, the agreement is not specifically connected to building a data center in Falls City.

Froeschl said Falls City is trying to build a power plant and is looking for a company such as Tenaska to be an agent for the project.

Froeschl did say that since there is discussion of a possible project to build a large generation power plant in Falls City, there will be data centers reaching out, but that is not the goal of the agreement with Tenaska.

The Council unanimously approved the confidentiality agreement.

Assistant LV County Attorney Chris Lyon (right) presents Tom Weishaar (left) with the 2026 Liberty Bell Award/Credit: LV Co Atty/Facebook

(KAIR)--The Leavenworth County Bar Association has presented its 2026 Liberty Bell Award to Tom Weishaar during its annual Law Day ceremony, held earlier this month.

According to a release from the office of Leavenworth County Attorney Todd Thompson, Weishaar is the chief court services officer for the 1st Judicial District, which includes both Atchison and Leavenworth counties. The release says Weishaar began his career with Court Services in February of 1986 and was promoted to his current role in January of 2000.

The Liberty Bell Award recognizes a non-lawyer who has provided extraordinary service to the legal profession and helped promote a better understanding of the law in the community. Assistant County Attorney Chris Lyon presented the award.

Thompson, who attended the ceremony, said the recognition highlights the importance of the rule of law and credited Weishaar’s career-long commitment to fairness, accountability, and helping people better understand the justice system.

The 2026 Law Day theme was “The Rule of Law and the American Dream.”

(KLZA)--Pawnee County Sheriff Braden Lang alleges a violation of the Open Meetings Act by the Pawnee County Commissioners occurred during the Boards December, 23, 2025 meeting and January 6, 2026 meetings.
Sheriff Lang has filed a lawsuit against Pawnee County stating his belief that reasonable notice was not given for the meetings.
The Pawnee Republican newspaper reports Lang's suit seeks to have the resolution setting the salaries for elected officials for the 2027-2030 term of office be declared void.
In a social media post dated April 22, Lang alleges the action on the salaries did not take place at the time for which it had been scheduled on the Commissioners agenda.  
In his post, Lang went on to say the salary structure set by the Board is not what has traditionally been followed.
The Chief Deputy position has traditionally been set at 87% of the Sheriff's salary.  Following an increase in pay for deputy sheriff positions in October and again in December 2023, the deputy sheriff salaries now exceed the salary of the Pawnee County Sheriff.
According to figures Lang included in the post, the Chief Deputy now makes 107% of the Sheriff's salary;  with two other deputy positions paid 105% and 101% of the sheriff's salary.  
Lang has requested the Commissioners reconsider the salary set during the December, 23, 2025 meeting or revisit the decision and place the sheriff's salary for the next 4-year term of office on a future agenda for proper discussion and action.  
For 2027 the Sheriff's salary was set at $69,864 with a built in 3% increase each year of the term, topping out at a salary of $76,343 in 2030.  
Deputies are paid by the hour with their pay based on position in the department.  
Pawnee County Commissioners have 30 days from the date the suit was filed to respond to the suit.
Braden Lang has been with the Pawnee County Sheriff's Department since 2009 and was appointed Sheriff in 2019.  

With the end of the school year and summer approaching, more people are traveling. Local law enforcement is reminding all drivers of the importance of seat belt and child restraint use.

“Make it Click” is a national mobilization designed to save lives. In 2021, more thatn one person on average died per hour in vehicle crashes while not wearing seat belts.

During this mobilization, local law enforcement officers will be conducting high saturation patrols focusing on seat belt and child restraint use. Officers will have a ZERO TOLERANC approach to seat belt violations.

During the “Make it Click” campaign, officers will be working overtime with the overtime hours paid for through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Transportation – Highway Safety Office.

Drivers and passengers are reminded to Buckle up, every trip, every time!

(KLZA)--Peru State College—Nebraska’s first institution of higher education—will hold its 2026 commencement ceremony Saturday, May 9th, beginning at 10:00 a.m. at the Al Wheeler Activity Center on campus.

More than 300 students will receive degrees during the ceremony, including both master’s and undergraduate candidates, along with Winter 2025 graduates.

College President Dr. Robert Mock, Jr. will open the ceremony. Greetings from the Nebraska State College System Board of Trustees will be delivered by Connie Edmond of Lincoln, a 1987 Peru State graduate.

The college will present its Distinguished Service Award to Joyce Douglas of Lincoln, recognizing her long-standing collaboration with the institution. Cassandra Tangen, a math instructor, will be honored with the Teaching Excellence Award.

Ted L. Harshbarger, a 1977 graduate and Director of Alumni Relations for the Peru State College Foundation, will welcome graduates into the alumni association.

The presentation of graduates will be led by Dr. Regina Toman and Dr. Paul Hinrichs, with degrees officially conferred by President Mock.

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to a celebration reception in the campus courtyard, featuring a picnic meal and live music.

Founded in 1867, Peru State College now serves nearly 1,300 students annually with a wide range of academic programs.

For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be streamed live online at peru.edu/commencement.

These town halls will explain the current state of Nebraska’s medical cannabis program, what patients and families need to know, and how  ongoing legislative and regulatory decisions may affect access. Patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, law enforcement, and community members are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and stay engaged on an issue that matters deeply to Nebraskans.

The meeting in Falls City will take place at Smiley Bee's located in the 1700 block of Stone Street across from the Richardson County Courthouse between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m.

Nebraskan's voted in support of medical cannibas during the November, 2024 General Election.

Many questions remain about implementation, access and patient protections.

Crista Eggers is the Executive Director of Nebraskan's for Medical Marijuana.

Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Holton woman is facing multiple drug and alcohol-related charges following a welfare check in Holton Sunday evening.

According to Jackson County Sheriff Tim Morse, just before 6:00 p.m., deputies were called to the area near Anew Healthcare at 7th and Montana after reports of an unconscious person in the driver’s seat of a running Chevrolet Impala.

When deputies arrived, they located the woman and began an investigation. During a probable cause search of the vehicle, officers reportedly found drug paraphernalia.

The driver, identified as 34-year-old Miranda Linn Minner of Holton,  was arrested on charges including driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, possession of opiate narcotics, felony possession of a controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Minner was transported and booked into the Jackson County Jail.

(KMZA)--The Pottawatomie County Sheriff's Office is asking for the public’s help identifying two people involved in an assault late last month.

The Sheriff’s Office says the incident happened shortly before 10:30 a.m. on April 24th near East Hickory and Calhoun Streets in Louisville.

According to a witness, a man driving a white mid-size SUV got out of the vehicle and repeatedly punched an elderly man in the face, knocking him to the ground. A female passenger then reportedly exited the SUV and struck the victim in the head at least once while he was down.

Both suspects left the scene in the SUV.

The male suspect is described as a tall, thin, light-skinned Black man in his mid- to late-20s. The female is described as a short, heavy-set white woman with straight, dirty blonde hair, also believed to be in her mid- to late-20s.

The victim suffered non-life-threatening injuries and declined transport to a hospital.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Martinez with the Sheriff’s Office at 785-457-3353, or submit an anonymous tip through the agency’s website, referencing case number 2026-2061.

Eddie Aldrine/Credit: Nemaha Co 

(KMZA)--Nemaha County Emergency Preparedness Director Eddie Aldrine is stepping down. 

The Nemaha County Commission accepted his resignation at their April 27th meeting. His final day in the role will be May 20th. 

Aldrine says he’s accepted a new position with the Kansas Department of Agriculture, where he will serve as Emergency Management Coordinator. 

He has been Nemaha County’s Emergency Preparedness Director since June of 2022. 

Commissioners have not yet announced how they plan to fill the position, which is required under state statute.

( L-R)--Kayla Shopteese and Jadake Pewamo/Credit: Brown Co Sheriff's Office 

(KAIR)--A reported verbal domestic dispute in Brown County late last week led to a search warrant and to the arrest of two Horton residents.

According to a release from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, deputies responded around 6:45 Friday evening to 1288 Fern Road. Merchant says that after the initial investigation, deputies applied for and were granted a search warrant for the residence.

The release says 18-year-old Kayla Shopteese was arrested on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, and contributing to a child’s misconduct.

Merchant says 24-year-old Jadake Pewamo was also arrested on charges of furnishing cereal malt beverage to a minor, contributing to a child’s misconduct, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

The release credits the assistance provided by the Kickapoo Tribal Police Department.

USDA’s Farm Service Agency administers Grassland CRP, a voluntary working lands conservation program that enables participants to conserve grasslands while also continuing most grazing and haying practices.

Grassland CRP emphasizes support for grazing operations, plant and animal biodiversity, and grasslands and land with shrubs and forbs under the greatest threat of conversion.

Grassland CRP enrollment will be competitive just like previous enrollment periods since the program is very close to the 27-million-acre statutory cap.

Currently, more than 26.2 million acres are enrolled in CRP, with nearly 10.3 million acres in Grassland CRP. FSA recently closed the enrollment period for General CRP.

Due to the 27-million-acre statutory cap, only 1.9 million acres are available for all CRP enrollment this fiscal year.

Producers and landowners interested in participating in CRP should contact their?local FSA county office before the May 29 deadline.??

Commissioners also approved an agreement with Verizon Connect for a vehicle tracking subscription and dashcam service and software for county vehicles.

A discussion was held on quotes received for electrical hook-up and HVAC installation at the outdoor storage building at the Law Enforcement Center which will be used as an evidence storage area. No action was taken.

The Board congratulated dispatcher Chase Hardesty on recently receiving a Life-Saver Award while attending training at Kearney.

A proposal from Halsey Inc. doing business as ServPro of St. Joseph and Maryville, MO to do restoration service of areas within the Richardson County Courthouse was approved at a cost of $7,354.

The proposal was based on the formal mold investigation report dated April 15 that was completed by Techtron Environmental Solutions.

Commissioners also met with Emergency Management Agency Director Brian Kirkendall to review a proposed salary increase for the Deputy Emergency Management Director position. The proposal was to increase the salary from $23.35 per hour to $27.02 per hour which would make the salary 75% of the Emergency Management Directors current salary.

Following a lengthy discussion, the proposal was tabled for further review.

Incumbent Rick Hardesty is seeking another term in office and is challenged by Nick Aitken.

Both candidates are Republican and will square off in the May 12 Primary Election. There are no candidates on the Democratic ticket.

Tuesday we will present an interview with Rick Hardesty and on Wednesday our interview will be with Nick Aitken.

The interviews will follow the local news and sports on KTNC in the 7 a.m. and 12 p.m. hour.

On SUNNY 101.3 the interviews will air following the news around 7:20 a.m. Both days.

She presented information about the organizations 60th Anniversary and offered a proclamation for the Board to sign designating May at Community Action Month in Pawnee County.

Krystal Nickels met with the Board to discuss SENCA's Pawnee County Family Development Associate update on services in the county and related events and activiites that are scheduled.

Commissioners also heard updates from several county officials during the meeting.

Credit: Maur Hill-Mt Academy

(KAIR)--A new head girls varsity basketball coach is named at Atchison’s Maur Hill-Mount Academy, with a release from the school saying a native of the local area steps into the position.

According to the release, Josie Weishaar, originally from Nortonville, takes over the head coaching role. She was a varsity standout at Jefferson County North, while also competing in multiple sports.

The release notes Weishaar continued her basketball career at Missouri Western State University, where she was part of a team that advanced to the Elite Eight. She later played at Benedictine College, helping the program reach a conference championship and a trip to the NAIA National Tournament Round of 32.

The release says Weishaar currently teaches physical education and most recently served as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball program at Benedictine College, citing her playing background, coaching experience, and focus on student-athlete development.

The week began Sunday and runs through Saturday. The recognition follows a proclamation made during the Valley Falls City Council meeting of April 15.

The city says the week is meant to honor public servants across many roles, including first responders, healthcare professionals, teachers, public works staff, and others who help keep the city running, and it encourages residents to thank them for their commitment and service.

The City of Valley Falls is also recognizing May as Motorcycle Awareness Month, following a proclamation made during the same Council meeting.

The City says motorcycles are an important part of transportation and recreation across Kansas, and with more riders on the road, safety and awareness are especially important. The city is reminding drivers to stay alert, share the road, and show respect for motorcyclists on city streets and highways.

Mayor Dawn Kennedy is encouraging residents to promote safer roadways by watching for motorcycles and giving them space, with the goal of preventing crashes and keeping everyone safe.

(KAIR)--Two drivers were injured in an early Monday morning Jefferson County crash about two miles east of Ozawkie, with both transported to area hospitals for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

WIBW-TV, citing Jefferson County Sheriff Jeff Herrig, reports the crash happened at the intersection of K-92 Highway and Ferguson Road shortly before 5:00 Monday morning, when an SUV northbound on Ferguson Road failed to stop for a stop sign and crashed into a car that had been eastbound on K-92.

The driver of the SUV, 29-year-old Gandarilla Gleudis Pena of Kansas City, Kansas, was taken by the Jefferson County Ambulance to Stormont Vail in Topeka.

The driver of the car, 62-year-old Matthew Grother of Ozawkie, was transported by Jefferson County Ambulance to Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

Fire departments from Oskaloosa, Ozawkie, and Fairview assisted at the scene.

Herrig told the TV station at least one of the drivers had to be extricated.

Both of the injured were traveling alone.

(KNZA)--Sabetha Community Hospital is announcing a significant change in how maternity care will be delivered to local families.

Beginning with a new “Shared Care” model, the hospital will phase out in-hospital labor and delivery services, with its final births scheduled for May 31, 2026.

Hospital officials say the decision comes after a long-term review of regional healthcare trends, along with a steady decline in local birth rates in recent years. Leaders say the transition is intended to preserve high-quality care while adapting to the changing needs of the community.

Under the new model, expectant mothers will continue to receive prenatal care locally through Sabetha Family Practice. As delivery nears, patients will then transition to a regional birthing center of their choice.

After childbirth, families will return to Sabetha for postpartum care, newborn checkups, and ongoing pediatric services—allowing much of the care to remain close to home.

Hospital leadership says the approach is designed to combine the comfort and familiarity of local care with the safety and resources available at higher-volume birthing centers.

Officials also say the change will allow the hospital to expand outpatient services, preventive screenings, and primary care offerings for residents across the region.

(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will hold its annual Citywide Clean-up Day on Saturday, May 9th.

The clean-up site will be set up at the City Public Works property, located at 912 Hiawatha Avenue. Drop-offs will be accepted from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Each household is limited to one pickup load, one carload, or one single-axle trailer load. Contractors are not permitted, and the city reserves the right to refuse any load. Proof of residency will be required.

New this year, the city is offering curbside pickup of one bulk item per household. Residents must place the item at the curb for collection and call City Hall at 742-7477 by Thursday, May 7th to be added to the pickup list.

Items not accepted include household trash, leaves, grass clippings, tires, paint, oil, ignitable liquids, hazardous materials, and any material containing freon—except for appliances.

Natasha Crosby/Credit: Jackson County Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Sabetha woman was arrested on multiple drug charges  following a traffic stop in Jackson County Friday evening. 

According to Sheriff Tim Morse, a sheriff’s deputy arrested 45-year-old Natasha Crosby around 9:15  after a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 75 near 302nd Road.

During the stop, Morse said the deputy conducted a probable cause search of  her vehicle and reported finding cocaine, marijuana and THC products.

Crosby was booked into the Jackson County Jail on suspicion of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of THC and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office

(KNZA)--A Havensville woman was arrested on drug charges following a traffic stop in Jackson County.

According to Sheriff Tim Morse, a sheriff's deputy conducted a traffic stop on a Nissan Rogue around noon on Thursday for an alleged traffic infraction on U.S. 75 near 222nd Road.

46-year-old Margaret Thomas was arrested on suspicion of possession of methamphetamine, possession of a hallucinogenic drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and driving without insurance.

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

Seventeen adult volunteers, nine 4-H members and five families of volunteers were recognized during National Volunteer Week.

Among the families to be honored as Outstanding Multi-Generation Family of Volunteers is the Vonderschmidt family from Dawson and Richardson Counties.

The Vonderschmidt family said their favorite memory as 4-H volunteers has been watching all the children they have been involved with carry the skills and leadership they learned through 4-H into adulthood. They have worked over the years to help develop responsibility and accountability, emphasizing communication and confidence while teaching practical and technical skills.

The Mike and Deb Wilcox Family from Pawnee County will also be honored at the State Fair.

Their favorite memory is helping a first-year member through their project and then watching them step into the ring with confidence.

The Wilcox family has helped youth become Beyond Ready by focusing on real-world skills, "like responsibility, time management, communication, and problem-solving. Whether it’s completing a project, caring for an animal, or presenting in front of judges, the Wilcox family encourages the members to take ownership and learn from both successes and setbacks, making it a point to connect what they’re doing in 4-H to future careers and everyday life.

Nine 4-H members are being honored as Outstanding Youth Volunteers for going above and beyond in their local 4-H programs. One of those nine is Wesley Schmid from Johnson County who's favorite memory is announcing the Clover Kid pet show.

Among the nine Outstanding Adult Volunteer Award winners is Lisa Schawang from Richardson County. These awards go to those who have been leaders for more than four years. Lisa's favorite memory as a 4-H volunteer is when the group was in the barn and a sudden heavy downpour hit and quickly started to flood the barn. As everyone scrambled to keep the pens dry and push the water back one of the parents splashed a kid with a cup of water leading to a full-fledged water fight causing laughter to fill the barn.

Earning an award as an Emerging Adult Volunteer is Lukas Fritz from Nemaha County. Those honored in this category have served less than three years in their local 4-H community.

Hrabik, a junior at Peru State College, is majoring in secondary social science education with a minor in theatre.

He has served on the Student Senate as President, Vice President, & Freshman representative; One-Act Competition Director and Coordinator; Peru Theatre Company as President & Vice President; and Social Science Club/Phi Alpha Theta Vice President.

When discussing his appointment, Hrabik stated, “Serving as Student Trustee is my way of giving back to the college that’s become my home, continuing to advocate for students, elevate their voices, and help shape decisions that strengthen both my campus and the State College System.”

Lucas is the son of Curt Hrabik and Dr. Cindy Janssen Hrabik of Louisville, Nebraska.

Governor Laura Kelly, through executive order, has directed flags throughout Kansas be flown at half-staff from sunup to sundown Sunday in recognition of National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Day.

Kelly, in a release, calls first responders “the backbone of our communities,” saying they work selflessly to keep Kansans safe day in and day out, and that the day is a time to recognize firefighters’ essential work and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state.

Michael King (left) holds his Distinguished Educator of the Year award, joined by Benedictine College President Stephen Minnis (right)/Submitted photo

(KAIR)--Benedictine College has named Michael King as its 2026 Distinguished Educator of the Year.

According to a release from the Atchison-based college, King, an associate professor and chair of the college’s School of Business, received the honor during the annual Academic Honors Convocation on April 29. The college says the award is the highest faculty honor Benedictine presents and has been awarded for more than 30 years, with nominations submitted by students, faculty, and staff.

The college says King was recognized for qualities that include creativity and effectiveness as an educator, strong rapport with students, and a willingness to go beyond the classroom to help students succeed. Benedictine also notes King has helped grow the School of Business to more than 500 undergraduate students and incorporates a Catholic mindset into his teaching.

Benedictine says King is a 1983 graduate of the college and later earned his law degree from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, along with graduate degrees from the Thunderbird School of Global Management and Fort Hays State University. The release notes his professional background includes work in business ventures and investment banking, service on the professional staff of the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee, and time as president of the College of Saints John Fisher and Thomas More in Fort Worth, Texas.

(KNZA)--More scams are circulating in Brown County, with the sheriff’s office warning residents about fake text messages designed to intimidate people into paying money.
According to a statement from Brown County Sheriff John Merchant, an overwhelming number of residents have recently reported receiving authentic-looking text messages claiming to be from the State of Kansas and the District Court in Johnson County. The messages demand the recipient appear in court for alleged toll evasion, speeding, and parking violations.

Merchant says the messages are fictitious, and that courts do not use text messages to demand someone appear in court. He says the texts are intended to intimidate and extort money, and residents who receive them should delete them immediately. Anyone who believes they have been victimized is asked to contact local law enforcement.
Merchant also warns of a separate scam involving texts claiming to be from the Kansas Turnpike Authority, stating the recipient owes a toll and that an arrest warrant will be issued if it isn’t paid. Merchant says the KTA does not notify people by text message and sends notices in paper form.
Residents with questions are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the Brown County Sheriff’s Office.

(KNZA)--Brown County has a new Emergency Management Coordinator.

The County Commission voted Monday to hire Brandon Roberts for the position. Roberts will work 24 hours per week in the role.

He replaces Don Pounds, who resigned February 13 after serving in the position for the past six years.

Roberts was one of several candidates interviewed for the job. He officially began his duties on Tuesday.

(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission met Monday and approved a series of road surfacing projects planned for 2026.

Commissioners accepted bids for chip sealing, asphalt work, and crack sealing on several county roads.

Vance Brothers submitted a chip seal bid totaling about $589,000. That work includes Mineral Point Road south of Troy, Peck Road south of 175th Road, Randolph Road south of U.S. Highway 36, and two larger double-shot oil and chip seal projects on 150th Road and Saratoga Road.

Herzog Contracting Corporation was awarded a nearly $602,000 asphalt project on 240th Road west of Highland, covering 3.4 miles.

Midwest Sealing and Construction will handle crack sealing on Castleton Road south of Highway 120, for just over one mile at a cost of about $10,000.

In other business, Sheriff Mark Allen and Undersheriff Brendan Wolvington discussed wage comparisons for deputies, dispatchers, and jail staff with several nearby counties.

Wolvington said there was a misunderstanding in how 2026 pay increases affected starting wages for dispatchers and jailers.

Commissioners later approved raising starting pay for those positions to $17.50 an hour for day shifts and $18.00 an hour for night shifts, effective April 27th.

Michael Wheeler/Credit: Jackson Co Sheriff's Office  

(KNZA)--A Louisville man is facing multiple drug charges in Jackson County.

According to Sheriff Tim Morse, just before 1:30 Wednesday morning, a deputy conducted a welfare check on a Chevy Avalanche parked near Buck’s Grove Cemetery at the intersection of K-16 Highway and B Road.

Following an investigation, authorities arrested 67-year-old Michael Wheeler.

He was taken to the Jackson County Jail and booked on several charges, including distribution of an opiate, opium, narcotic, or certain stimulant; possession with intent to distribute drug paraphernalia; failure to have a drug tax stamp; interference with law enforcement; concealing or destroying evidence in a felony case; and possession of a controlled substance, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.