Regional News Headlines

Prepare for a tornado by checking forecasts, signing up for notifications, creating a communication plan, choosing a safe room, practicing drills, reinforcing your safe room, and assisting loved ones. During a tornado, stay updated, seek shelter, and avoid being outdoors or in a vehicle. After the tornado, stay informed, contact loved ones, assess damage, and help neighbors.

Gov. Laura Kelly rejected a bipartisan tax cut package, citing concerns about long-term financial stability. She proposed an alternative plan to provide tax relief while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Lawmakers are divided, with the governor expressing worries about repeating past financial mistakes and the Legislature aiming to override her veto and implement the tax cuts.

Starting next week, new USDA rules will require dairy cattle to be tested for avian influenza before being transported across state lines due to the spread of the virus. This follows evidence of transmission between cows and poultry. Infected cows may not show symptoms, posing risks to other herds. The impact on dairy farmers is being assessed.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has allocated over $5.3 million for seven clean energy projects in Kansas, aimed at reducing energy bills, increasing access to biofuels, and creating job opportunities. These projects include solar arrays and energy-efficient equipment installations, expected to benefit farms, small businesses, and rural communities. The initiative falls under the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP), both accepting applications until September 30, 2024.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed Senate Bill 458, reforming the Kansas Standard Asset Seizure and Forfeiture Act. The bill enhances due process for property owners, increases governmental accountability, and sets limits on federal assistance in asset forfeiture. The reforms aim to protect property owners' rights and bring transparency to law enforcement. Governor Kelly also signed several other bills addressing education, elevator safety, military justice, and open records exceptions.

KD Country 94 & Z-96.3 The Lake in Glen Elder, Kansas seeks a creative, reliable individual to join their team. The position involves various radio station operations and requires strong communication, organization, and customer service skills. Sales and marketing background is beneficial. The role offers flexibility and the chance to work in a lively environment. Contact kdnskzdy@nckcn.com or call 785-545-3220 to apply.

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Jeanne Shaheen introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate May 3, 2024, as National Space Day, recognizing the impact of the space and aerospace community on the United States. This acknowledges the contributions of aerospace leaders and aims to inspire the next generation of space explorers and engineers. U.S. Representatives Ted Lieu and Ken Calvert introduced a similar resolution in the House of Representatives.

Governor Laura Kelly signed Senate Bill 115 to establish the independent Office of the Child Advocate (OCA), granting access to children's welfare records. The OCA will be headed by an appointee of the Governor, promoting transparency and accountability in the child welfare system. The bill's passage is a significant milestone after years of effort.__JETPACK_AI_ERROR__

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has released the 2023 Kansas Civil Asset Forfeiture Report, available at https://kasfr.kbi.ks.gov. This report covers the period from January 1 to December 31, 2023, showing approximately $3.91 million in seized property and approximately $2.38 million in forfeited property. Detailed information on seizure and forfeiture activity by agency, as well as forfeiture fund expenditures, is provided. Additionally, a bipartisan bill to increase reporting requirements under KSASFA has passed the Legislature and awaits Governor Kelly's review. For a complete review of the data and additional visualizations, visit the KASFR website.

Fort Riley is set to reopen the 1st Infantry Division Museum on April 26 at 3 p.m. The museum showcases the division's history from 1917 to present, featuring exhibits from major conflicts such as World War I and II, the Vietnam Conflict, and the Gulf War. Extensive renovations promise state-of-the-art displays and technology for an immersive visitor experience.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is looking into a shooting involving police in Topeka, Kansas, following a carjacking. The suspect, Terrell D. Hayes-Osby, fired at officers during a pursuit and was injured by return fire. He is in serious condition but expected to survive. The KBI will conduct a detailed independent investigation.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking public input on a draft environmental assessment for the Water Injection Dredging Study at Tuttle Creek Lake. A public meeting is scheduled for April 18, 2024, in Manhattan, KS. The project aims to address sedimentation issues and restore the reservoir's storage capacity using innovative water injection dredging technology.

TOPEKA, April 17, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development Kansas Director Christy Davis today announced that USDA is partnering with Reinvestment...

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrested a Kansas police lieutenant for child sex crimes, including aggravated indecent liberties with a child and promoting obscenity to a minor. David Justice, 55, was arrested near his residence and booked into the Cherokee County Jail on a $25,000 bond. The investigation is ongoing.

The American Royal Association celebrates 125 years of food and agriculture events in 2024, hosting BBQ competitions, rodeos, livestock shows, equine exhibitions, and educational programs. Collaborations with Kansas City-based vendors for commemorative products and events, alongside plans for future celebrations, mark the organization's enduring legacy and commitment to agriculture.

The Kansas Farm Bureau’s Foundation for Agriculture awarded $26,500 in scholarships to 45 college students for the 2024-25 school year, totaling over $250,000 in the past decade. Recipients studying fields benefiting agriculture and rural Kansas include Karlie Albright, Madeline Drake, Carissa Dalquest, Jonathan Temaat, and several others from various counties and colleges in Kansas.

The Kansas Storytelling Festival in Downs, Kansas, on April 26 and 27 offers a weekend of laughter, wonder, and connection through storytelling. Professional storytellers emphasize the warmth and intimacy of the community, where attendees can forge meaningful connections. The event promises universal stories that connect us all. Purchase admission buttons online.

Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Water Office have allocated $18 million to 34 municipalities and special districts for water-related projects in Kansas. The grants, made possible by bipartisan legislation, aim to address water issues in rural communities. The funding was well received, with a high volume of applications demonstrating the extreme need. Recipients include various towns and districts across the state.

Kansas State University Salina is addressing the demand for aviation maintenance professionals by launching the Aviation Maintenance Certification Program. The 34-week program, funded by the state of Kansas, offers full scholarships and covers a comprehensive curriculum approved by the FAA. The program aims to prepare participants for careers as certified aircraft mechanics, avionics technicians, inspectors, and more, to meet the industry's increasing demand.

Governor Laura Kelly signed House Bill 2536, creating the SOUL family legal permanency option for foster children over 16. This gives them a say in their future caregivers. Additional bipartisan bills were also signed, addressing various state issues, ranging from self-storage facilities to criminal penalties for hit-and-run incidents causing injury or death.

The winners of the Kansas KidWind State Finals are gearing up for the World KidWind Challenge in Minneapolis. Teams must win at regional and state levels to qualify. The competition involves designing, building, and testing a wind turbine, with scoring based on performance, efficiency, a knowledge quiz, an instant challenge, and a presentation. KidWind promotes STEM skills and teamwork.

The American Legion Boys State of Kansas has partnered with Kansas State University to offer attendees three hours of college credit at a discount. Attendees can enroll in Introduction to Political Science, fulfilling a portion of the course requirements. They may also be eligible for two scholarships. The program provides leadership training for high school juniors and sophomores. Apply by April 30 at ksbstate.org. For more details, contact info@ksbstate.org or (785) 550-6492.

Several individuals, including employees at Advanced Call Center Technologies in Kansas, were involved in a $1 million fraudulent customer refund scheme for AT&T Digital Life home security systems. The scheme involved processing fake refund claims and laundering the funds. Multiple defendants have pleaded guilty to wire fraud and money laundering, with FBI involvement in the investigation.

Gov. Laura Kelly vetoed bills banning gender-identity care for transgender youth and criminalizing abortion coercion. She criticized the bills as intrusive and medically unjustified. Legislators pledged to override the vetoes. The bills on gender-affirming care and abortion coercion were denounced as discriminatory and extremist by advocates and party leaders. Another vetoed bill aimed to expand the abortion survey, facing criticism for its invasive nature. Kelly emphasized Kansans' opposition to legislative interference in private medical decisions.

The fourth annual Summer STEAM Virtual Academy at Kansas State University College of Education is now open for middle schoolers interested in science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. The virtual camp will run from June 10-27, featuring engaging classes and activities. Registration is available for individuals or classrooms, with scholarships for eligible students. For details and registration, visit the Summer STEAM Virtual Academy website.

Governor Laura Kelly requested a federal disaster declaration from President Joe Biden via FEMA due to damages from a winter storm in multiple Kansas counties. The request includes Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Public Assistance for 16 counties, aiming to provide resources for repairs and help communities recover from the storm's impact.

The Kansas ABLE Savings Plan roadshow, starting in Topeka, aims to raise awareness and provide information directly to Kansans with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. This effort, supported by various organizations, includes 50 in-person and virtual tour stops to inform about ABLE accounts and offer opportunity grants for individuals with disabilities. For more information, visit https://kansascash.ks.gov/able.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting in Harper County. A deputy approached a vehicle on the highway and encountered a woman armed with a knife and scissors. Despite commands to drop her weapons, the woman charged at the officers, prompting the deputy to fire three shots, fatally injuring her. The KBI will conduct a thorough investigation.

Kansas State University's College of Education is using a $2.7 million grant to enhance rural education and promote STEM fields. They offer free training, resources, and $3,000 for technology to participating schools. The Project LEAPES Virtual Camp this summer includes robotics and coding activities for students in upper elementary and grades 6-8. Teachers can sign up for a $1,000 stipend and $3,000 worth of classroom equipment, with professional development sessions included. Last summer, the program successfully engaged hundreds of students. The grant is part of a larger initiative to enhance education in STEM and related fields.

Kansas received $8.2 million to implement the Digital Equity Plan, aiming to improve internet access and digital opportunity statewide. The plan includes training, affordable service plans, and access to broadband-ready devices. This approval marks progress toward universal online access for education, employment, healthcare, and social services, aligning with the broader five-year action plan.