Graves Opens Nominations for Service Academies

U.S. Congressman Sam Graves has announced the opening of the nomination process for students in North Missouri seeking to attend four of the nation's prestigious military service academies: the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Air Force Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. While the U.S. Coast Guard Academy also offers admission to aspiring cadets, it follows a separate application process that does not require a congressional nomination.

Each year, numerous students from across the region apply for these highly competitive nominations. According to Congressman Graves, the process is rigorous but immensely rewarding, offering young leaders the opportunity to serve their country while receiving a top-tier education.

“It’s one of the greatest honors of my role in Congress to help these exceptional young men and women pursue their goals of military service through academy appointments,” said Graves. “These individuals represent the best and brightest of North Missouri.”

To be eligible for nomination, applicants must meet several criteria, including:

• Being at least 17 years old but not older than 22 (25 for the Merchant Marine Academy),

• Holding U.S. citizenship and permanent Missouri residency,

• Being unmarried with no dependents,

• Meeting all medical, physical, and academic standards set by the academies,

• Demonstrating good moral character,

• Possessing a valid Social Security Number.

Students interested in applying are encouraged to first open an application with their chosen academy, then contact Graves’ Kansas City District Office at 816-792-3976 for further guidance on the nomination process.

The deadline to submit a complete nomination application is 5 pm on October 10, 2025. After the deadline, applicants will be interviewed and evaluated by the Congressman’s Academy Nomination Review Board—a panel made up of academy alumni, veterans, and community leaders. The board will then recommend the most qualified candidates for Graves’ final nominations.

“This process ensures that those who receive nominations truly reflect the leadership, dedication, and excellence our academies demand,” Graves added. “Whether they receive a nomination or not, I am confident each applicant will go on to make North Missouri proud.”

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

RE/MAX Advantage Hosts Free Community Shred Event in Kearney

As part of a spring cleaning initiative, RE/MAX Advantage is inviting the community to safely dispose of personal and sensitive documents at a free Shred Event on Saturday, May 10, from 1 – 3 pm, at 300 S Platte Clay Way, Ste A, in Kearney.

The event, open to the public, will run for two hours and offers residents a secure way to get rid of old tax documents, financial papers, and other personal records. Whether you're clearing out your filing cabinets or looking to protect your identity, this event provides a convenient and responsible way to dispose of confidential materials.

RE/MAX Advantage is hosting the event in partnership with Stewart Title, Fleming Group KC (Prime Lending), Country Financial – Jenna Nelson, Hammett Services, and Diamond D Land Management.

To sweeten the deal, the first 85 attendees will receive a free drink courtesy of Travelin' Tom’s Coffee Truck, which will be on-site throughout the event.

“This is a great opportunity to tidy up after tax season and safely shred old paperwork while enjoying a coffee on us,” said a RE/MAX Advantage representative. “We’re excited to give back to the community with the help of our generous partners.”

The event is open to everyone—no need to RSVP. Just bring your documents and enjoy a cup of coffee while your papers are securely shredded.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

North Kansas City Hospital Joins Prestigious Mayo Clinic Care Network

North Kansas City Hospital (NKCH) has joined the Mayo Clinic Care Network, a significant milestone that aligns the hospital with one of the most respected names in medicine and strengthens its commitment to delivering exceptional care.

The partnership connects NKCH with a global network of independent health systems that have special access to the Mayo Clinic’s extensive medical expertise, resources, and collaborative tools. Through this affiliation, NKCH providers will be able to consult directly with Mayo Clinic specialists and access a range of services designed to enhance patient care — all while maintaining their independence.

“Joining the Mayo Clinic Care Network is a historic accomplishment that will enhance our capabilities and help us continue our goal of delivering the highest level of care to our community,” said Dr. Stephen Reintjes Sr., president and CEO of NKCH.

The Mayo Clinic Care Network includes a select group of health systems that undergo a rigorous review process to ensure alignment with Mayo Clinic’s standards of high-quality, evidence-based care. As a nonprofit organization, Mayo Clinic is recognized worldwide for its innovations in clinical practice, research, and education.

NKCH leaders say the collaboration opens new doors for both providers and patients. Medical teams at NKCH will now have access to tools like AskMayoExpert, a point-of-care resource for clinical information; eConsults, which enable direct physician-to-physician consultations with Mayo Clinic experts; and eBoards, allowing local teams to discuss complex cases via video conference with Mayo specialists.

“Becoming a member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network is the beginning of a new era for our health system,” said Dr. Steven Starr, Chief Medical Officer at NKCH. “The opportunity to have access to Mayo Clinic’s knowledge and to provide that knowledge to our patients locally, at no additional cost, is incredible.”

The affiliation also includes professional development opportunities and continuous medical education for NKCH providers, reinforcing the hospital’s long-standing commitment to excellence in patient care.

With this partnership, North Kansas City Hospital joins a global movement to bring world-class expertise closer to home, strengthening its role as a trusted leader in community healthcare.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

School Board Seeks New Member

Kearney School District’s Board of Education is seeking qualified applicants to fill an open at-large seat following the recent resignation of member Len Broughton.

The school board was officially informed of Broughton’s resignation by Board Secretary Becky Burkemper during their business meeting on Wednesday, April 16.

Interested candidates are asked to submit a completed Board of Education Application for Vacant Board Position (G-335-A); a hard copy can be picked up at the district office. Applications must be submitted to Mrs. Burkemper at burkemperb@ksdr1.net or in person at 425 W. Washington St. in Kearney before 4:30 p.m. on May 8, 2025. Call (816) 628-4116 for more details.

Selected candidates will be interviewed in an open session meeting starting at 4:30 p.m. on May 21, 2025. The board may vote to select the new member at the June 18, 2025, regular board meeting. If selected, the new board member would serve until the April 6, 2026, election.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.

Kearney Lions Club Hosts 4th Annual Kids Fishing Derby

The Kearney Lions Club invites local youth to cast their lines and reel in some fun at the 4th Annual Kids Fishing Derby, happening at Jesse James Park Lake. The event will take place on Saturday, May 3 from 10 am to 2 pm, and is open to all area kids.

Set for a day of outdoor excitement, the derby is limited to the first 65 registered participants ages 18 and under who reside in the Kearney or Holt area. Pre-registration is required by May 2 and can be completed ONLINE.

Youth must be accompanied by an adult. Though adults are not permitted to fish themselves, they may, however, assist their child during the event.

Participants will compete in three age categories—2 to 6, 7 to 11, and 12 to 18 years old. Each group will see two winners: one for the largest fish caught and another for the most fish caught.

Event Highlights:

• Participants may bring their own rod, reel, and tackle.

• Equipment will be available on-site for those who need it.

• Free worms will be provided.

• Only hook-and-line fishing is permitted, with a limit of one rod per participant.

• Treble hooks are not allowed.

• Catch and release only — all fish must be returned to the lake after being caught.

The event promises a fun-filled day of fishing, family bonding, and community spirit. Don’t miss this chance to enjoy the great outdoors with the Kearney Lions Club!

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.