Keep Safety in Mind This Thanksgiving

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, reminds everyone there will be an increase in traffic over the Thanksgiving holiday. The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with Wednesday and Sunday afternoon/evenings being the most heavily traveled times. Drivers should expect more traffic and the possibility of delays throughout the weekend. Regardless of traffic patterns, safety should remain a priority.

The counting period for the 2025 Thanksgiving holiday weekend is from 6 p.m. Wednesday, November 26, 2025, to 11:59 p.m. Sunday, November 30, 2025. Troopers will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort), enforcing all traffic laws, and available to assist the public. Over the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday counting period, 11 people were killed and 571 injured in 1,664 traffic crashes.

If you plan to travel over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend be aware of work zones, obey all traffic laws, and make sure everyone in your vehicle is wearing a seat belt or secured in the appropriate child safety seat for their size and age. Remember: Missouri is a hands-free state, so put the phone down and buckle up. There is never a reason to speed, drive aggressively, or drive impaired.

Due to ongoing road construction throughout the state, the Patrol suggests that travelers use the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to plan their travel days. The map provides up-to-date information such as road closures, delays, construction zones, and alternative routes. You can download the app for free to your smart device or access it here.

If being on or near the water is part of your Thanksgiving holiday weekend plans, remember that the water is becoming colder, and hypothermia is a concern. The body loses heat 25 times faster in water than in the air of the same temperature. The proper use of life jackets is imperative.

The public is encouraged to call the Patrol's Emergency Report Line 800-525-5555 or *55 on your cellular phone if they witness criminal activity, observe driving behavior that could cause a crash, or experience an emergency. These phone numbers are operational for both highway and water emergencies. If your celebration includes intoxicants, designate someone else to drive whether you are in a boat or vehicle. Don't become a statistic.

KPGZ News - MSHP

Swim Team Makes History at Championship Meet

Last week, the state boys swim and dive team journeyed across I-70 to St. Louis, competing in their State Championship Meet and turning in a performance that will be remembered for years to come. The boys were unstoppable from the first event to the last, rewriting school history, shattering state records, and capturing two more state championship titles. Their efforts culminated in an eighth-place finish out of 60 teams—marking the program’s highest placement in five years.

Back Row: Bennett Freeman, Isaac Jensen, Braeden Mallonee, Whitaker Steward, & Patrick McNellis. Front Row: Isaac Clayton, Milo Sumpter, & Landon Morrill.

Individual Standouts Steal the Spotlight

Whitaker Steward: A Legendary High School Career

Senior swimmer Whitaker Steward capped his high school career by tying the all-time record for the most individual state championship titles in Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) history, boasting seven titles over four years. Known for dominating races with performances reminiscent of Olympic legend Katie Ledecky, Steward continually distanced himself from the competition. This year, he added to his legacy with exceptional swims in both the 200 and 500 Freestyle events.

In the 200 Freestyle, Steward entered finals as the top seed after swimming a 1:40.03 in preliminaries. On championship day, he broke his own Class 1 State Record, lowering his time to a blazing 1:38.36—winning by a margin of at least three body lengths. With this victory, he claimed his third consecutive state title in the event and received All-American honors for the fifth time.

Steward’s dominance continued in the 500 Freestyle, where he not only secured the top seed with a 4:23.98 during prelims but nearly lapped his competitors in finals, finishing in 4:24.39—over 20 seconds ahead of second place. He became only the second male swimmer in MSHSAA history to win a state championship all four years of high school and earned his sixth All-American distinction.

Isaac Clayton: Diving to New Heights

Senior diver Isaac Clayton competed in his final high school meet, saving his best for last. Throughout much of the 11-dive competition, Clayton hovered between sixth and ninth place, but he nailed his final three dives and surged to a fifth-place finish. Clayton became the first male diver in program history to earn First Team All-State honors and stand on the podium at the state level—a remarkable achievement for someone who only began diving as a sophomore.

Braeden Mallonee: Making Waves Early

In just his second year swimming, sophomore Braeden Mallonee earned spots in two events—a feat few achieve. His rapid progression speaks volumes about his work ethic and determination. In the 100 Butterfly, he dropped his seed from 18th to 11th in preliminaries with a personal best of 54.94, ultimately finishing 14th in finals and earning All-State Honorable Mention honors. In the 100 Backstroke, Mallonee dropped a full second for a new PR in prelims, entered finals as the 12th seed, and finished 12th overall, once again receiving Honorable Mention recognition.

Relay Teams Showcase Depth and Determination

200 Medley Relay

The medley relay team faced disappointment after missing the top eight by just 0.05 seconds in preliminaries, finishing ninth. Refusing to settle, they returned in finals to shave off 1.5 seconds, with all four swimmers posting personal bests—demonstrating their grit even though the final result kept them in ninth place.

200 Freestyle Relay

The freestyle relay team delivered a remarkable four-second drop during preliminaries, finishing 25th. Every swimmer contributed a personal best split, reflecting the squad’s commitment to improvement and teamwork.

400 Freestyle Relay

In the 400 Freestyle Relay, the boys excelled, dropping two seconds for a new PR and securing the eighth seed for finals. They held strong and finished eighth, earning First Team All-State honors for the second consecutive year—a testament to the program’s consistency and growth.

A Season to Remember

From record-breaking individual performances to hard-fought relay races, the boys capped their season on a historic high. Their dedication, perseverance, and passion have set a new standard for the program.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Bulldogs Shut out Savannah to Claim District Title

In a gritty battle for the district championship, the number one ranked Kearney Bulldogs shut out the number two ranked Savannah Savages 24-0. The 11-0 Missouri Class-4, District-8 champion Bulldogs are slated for a state quarterfinal rematch with Warrensburg on Saturday, November 22. Kearney won last year’s matchup at Warrensburg 49-14.

Kale Tucking pushes a Savannah Defender out of his way before running another 10 yards, slipping a tackle and then declared down at the 12-yard line. Photo by Eric Stevens.

“An absolute huge shout out to our defense and our defensive staff,” said head coach Logan Minnick. “That's a team that averages over 43 points a game and you come out in the district championship when it really matters, and you hold them to zero – that’s an unbelievable effort from the defense.”

The Bulldog defense slammed the door on Savannah’s prolific ground attack, holding them to 64 yards on 32 attempts – two yards per carry.

“The plan was to just condense the pocket so much that they couldn't run and have to bounce outside,” said senior defensive lineman Mason Beaver. “Then, let our outside linebackers make the play. Our team was really physical. When I was running to the ball, I saw big hit after big hit.”

“Our defense was locked in all week,” said Minnick. “We had kids out there calling plays where it's going, playing great leverage, playing team defense. We took on so many blockers to free up guys to make tackles that just shows you how unselfish they are.”

The Bulldog offensive line was dominant in the trenches as Kearney’s offense racked up 181 rushing yards on 36 carries. Quarterback Carter Temple was 7 of 9 in passing for 124 yards.

“I think we did pretty good,” said junior offensive lineman JD Romero. “There are definitely some things we can get fixed for next week, but right now, we’ll celebrate a little bit and then get folks ready for the next game.”

“I think our running backs did an amazing job,” Romero added. The blocks weren't always the cleanest, but they found ways to get amazing yards.”

Bulldog running back Corbin Emmons imposed his will on the Savannah defense, breaking tackles and powering his way to 115 yards on 12 carries. He recorded the first of his three touchdowns early in the first quarter on a 55-yard carry.

Drew Nelson kicked a 22-yard field goal in the second quarter to put Kearney ahead by 10. Emmons tacked on another rushing touchdown before the half, giving the bulldogs a 17-0 lead at the break.

Emmons scored his third touchdown in the fourth quarter, and the Bulldog defense tightened their grip on Savannah’s offense as the clock ran out for the 24-0 district championship victory.

“I’m so proud of our kids because we haven't really been in a huge physical game like this for four or five weeks now,” said Minnick. “We talk all the time about how important that weight room is and it shows in a game like tonight.”

KPGZ News – Mike Davis contributed to this story.

Kearney School District Honors Veterans on Veterans Day

This year, students, staff, and families throughout Kearney School District came together on Veteran’s Day to pay tribute to those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. The day was marked by heartfelt ceremonies and expressions of gratitude across multiple schools in the district.

Photo By Ray Weikal.

At Kearney Junior High, the morning began with a special breakfast in the library for dozens of veterans and their families. The gathering set a tone of appreciation and community. Following breakfast, the school held an assembly for all students. The event featured a flag ceremony led by Boy Scouts, the school choir’s performance of the National Anthem, and moving words of thanks from students to the attending veterans.

Social studies teacher and Boys Wrestling Head Coach Tyler Owen spoke about his experiences serving in the U.S. Army, including his deployment to Afghanistan where he supported a hospital unit. Sergeant Owen encouraged students to live by the values upheld by the military, emphasizing the importance of selfless service to others.

Hawthorne Elementary also observed the day with an all-school assembly. The choir performed patriotic songs, and students shared reflections about the significance of honoring veterans. Many veterans, accompanied by their families, attended the event and were recognized during the ceremony. Afterward, they enjoyed breakfast together in the school lunchroom, further fostering a spirit of appreciation and community engagement.

Throughout the district, the message was clear: honoring veterans is an important tradition that brings together people of all ages. The Kearney School District invites all Bulldogs and members of the community to join in expressing deep gratitude and respect for the men and women who have stepped forward to defend and protect the nation.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Bulldogs to Face Savannah in District Final

The Kearney Bulldogs extended their post season playoff journey with a 67-20 drubbing of the Van Horn Falcons in the Missouri Class 4, District 8 semi-final round.

Kearney’s junior running back, Matthew Lindsey glided to the endzone on a 5-yard touchdown run for the opening score – his first in a prolific, breakout game consisting of four rushing touchdowns and a 2-point conversion reception from Brad Doll.  

Matthew Lindsey glided to the endzone on a 5-yard touchdown run for the opening score – his first in a prolific, breakout game consisting of four rushing touchdowns. Photo by Eric Stevens.

As a first-season transfer player, Lindsey has been building confidence with his Kearney teammates and still learning Head Coach Logan Minnick’s playbook.

“The first couple of games, I was nervous and didn't know the playbook as much as I do now,” said Lindsey. “I’m feeling more and more comfortable and running behind my pads now and couldn’t be more proud of the offensive line. They did a super job tonight.”

The Bulldogs racked up 290 rushing yards on 35 carries spread liberally among a stockpile of talent in the Kearney backfield: Corbin Emmons, Dryden Hendrix, Matthew Lindsey, Cruise Emmons, Hudson Best, and Kendahl Davis.

Quarterback Carter Temple was 3 of 5 passing for 53 yards and a touchdown. With Kearney’s 340 yards of total offense, this game was never close.

For five minutes in the second quarter, Van Horn controlled the clock on a sustained drive that culminated in a 1-yard score by Edarrius Scruggs who was stopped at the 1-foot line, but still able to extend his arms and the football past the goal line. Kearney was unable to score on their ensuing possession.

“We had a little adversity there, we've got to clean up some penalties, you know, especially the unsportsmanlike penalties,” said Head Coach Logan Minnick. “That's not Kearney football and that's something we will get corrected.”

With Kearney leading 14-7, the Van Horn offense was at midfield, second down and ten, as quarterback Bordy Gray’s pass attempt was picked off by Bulldog linebacker Luke Tucking and returned to the Van Horn 30-yard line.

In a dominating momentum shift, the Bulldog varsity completed their evening’s work at halftime with a 51-7 lead. The second and third units finished the second half with two Cruise Emmons touchdown runs. Van Horn’s varsity stayed on the field, scoring twice in the final minutes of the fourth quarter.

“I thought last year in this game we came out a little bit flat, so that was something we preached all week: coming out strong,” said Minnick. “Anytime you put 50 points up in a half, you know you’re doing things pretty well. I’m proud of the way that once we imposed our will, that it was kind of the end of this game.”

The 10-0 Bulldogs host the 10-1 Savannah Savages for the district championship game Friday, November 14, at 7:00 pm.

KPGZ News – Mike Davis contributed to this story.