Student Earns Leadership Opportunity PCEC Essay Contest

Kearney High School junior Alex Walter has been selected to represent Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative (PCEC) at the Cooperative Youth Conference and Leadership Experience (CYCLE) this summer after earning runner-up honors in the cooperative’s annual Youth Tour essay competition.

Walter’s accomplishment comes after submitting an outstanding essay that competed against entries from students throughout the Platte-Clay service area. As a result, Walter has earned an all-expenses-paid trip to Jefferson City from July 15-18 to participate in CYCLE, a highly regarded leadership conference that brings together some of the brightest high school students from across Missouri.

Kearney High School government teacher Zachary Smith, who encouraged Walter to enter the competition, praised his student’s hard work and initiative.

“Alex took on this challenge, and the effort has absolutely paid off,” Smith said. “I am very proud of Alex for taking this opportunity seriously and achieving such a remarkable honor.”

During the three-day leadership experience, Walter will join fellow student leaders to learn about electric cooperatives, explore the workings of Missouri state government, hear from dynamic speakers, and participate in leadership development activities. The program, coordinated by the Association of Missouri Electric Cooperatives (AMEC), is designed to build leadership skills and introduce students to new ideas, cultures and lifelong connections.

In a message to Walter and her family, Amanda McQuerrey, Marketing and Community Relations Coordinator for Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative, congratulated her on being selected for the program.

“You will learn more about electric cooperatives, Missouri state government, hear great speakers, have fun, and meet lots of new friends,” McQuerrey said. “Congratulations again, Alex. We are proud to have you represent Platte-Clay Electric at CYCLE!”

As part of the recognition, Walter was invited to the Platte-Clay Electric office to receive a prize and participate in a photo opportunity.

Kearney School District is proud to celebrate the achievements of students like Walter who demonstrate a commitment to leadership, excellence and personal growth. Opportunities like the CYCLE program support the district’s strategic focus on preparing students for success beyond the classroom by providing real-world learning experiences that matter most.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.

Platte-Clay Hosts Annual Blood Donation Event

The Community Blood Center has declared a blood emergency in our area. The Community Blood Center says our region is experiencing a blood shortage with dangerously low levels of O+, O-, B- blood types and platelets. Low levels are due to an increase in transfusion needs at local hospitals. The Community Blood Center is asking for donors’ help.

Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative in Kearney will be hosting a Community Blood Center donation event on Wednesday, October 2, from noon to 6 pm. The event will be held in their meeting room at 1000 W Highway 92 in Kearney.

Presenting donors will receive a free paring knife when they donate. Donors can book their appointment at SaveALifeNow.org/group and enter a group code EF2R.

For additional details contact Amanda McQuerrey at 816-903-7355 or amandam@pcec.coop.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Mobile Mammography Stops at Platte-Clay

The Mobile Mammography 3-D imaging bus is coming to Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative on Wednesday June 5th from 9 am to 5. Platte-Clay is located at 1000 W State Route 92 Highway in Kearney.

Platte-Clay worked with Diagnostic Imaging Centers P.A. to bring this service to Kearney.

Here are the guidelines to schedule your mammography session:

- When scheduling your mammogram, tell your scheduler that the appointment is on the mobile coach for Wednesday June 5th.

- Women 35 to 39 years of age are eligible for a screening baseline mammogram. They should check with their insurance provider prior to the screening for plan eligibility and coverage.

- Your most recent screening mammogram should be 12 months or more prior to the current mammogram for insurance coverage reasons. Please check with your insurance provider for coverage if you are earlier than 12 months.

- Women only women over 40 years do not need an order.

- Please complete the breast imaging form in the medical records release form, then provide them at your time of your appointment.

- You will also need a photo ID your insurance card and the name of your primary care physician.

- On the day of your mammogram please refrain from wearing deodorant lotion or perfume from the waist up. Also wear a two piece outfit so you don't have to fully disrobe.

To schedule your appointment, call 914-344-9989. Walk-ins are welcome.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.