Prosecutor’s Office Recognizes Outstanding Public Service

Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zach Thompson

The Clay County Prosecutor’s Office has announced the launch of a new initiative called PROPS – Prosecutors Recognizing Outstanding Public Service, aimed at honoring first responders and community members who demonstrate exceptional service.

The program will spotlight both law enforcement officers and civilians whose efforts contribute to making Clay County a safer and stronger community.

“Public safety is a team effort,” stated Clay County Prosecuting Attorney Zach Thompson. “Every day, individuals across our community step up to protect others, support victims, and make a difference. PROPS gives us an opportunity to recognize and thank those who go above and beyond in service to the public.”

The initiative will recognize individuals whose actions reflect courage, integrity, compassion, and a deep commitment to public service, including law enforcement and emergency personnel who have made a significant impact in the area.

The first PROPS recognition breakfast is scheduled for Thursday, March 19, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Through this program, the Prosecutor’s Office hopes to celebrate positive contributions across the community and emphasize the importance of collaboration in public safety.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Missouri Scholars Academy Selects Trio of Bulldogs

Three Kearney High School students have been selected to participate in the 2026 Missouri Scholars Academy, one of the state’s most prestigious academic enrichment programs for gifted students.The students who have been selected are Brenley Cartwright, Joshua Robinson, and Konnor Spring.

The Missouri Scholars Academy is a three-week residential summer program held at the University of Missouri that brings together some of the state’s most academically talented students as they prepare to enter their junior year of high school.

Each year, approximately 330 students from across Missouri are selected to participate in the Academy, where they engage in an intensive academic experience featuring interdisciplinary coursework, collaborative problem-solving and discussions of contemporary issues.

Students choose a major and minor area of study and spend their days exploring challenging topics in fields such as mathematics, science, humanities and social studies, while also participating in a variety of co-curricular activities designed to deepen their learning and connect them with peers from across the state.

Selection for the Missouri Scholars Academy is a tremendous honor and reflects the academic talent, curiosity and dedication these students have demonstrated throughout their time at Kearney High School.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.

Officials Promote Public Awareness Amid Security Concerns

The Missouri Department of Public Safety says it is increasing security measures alongside law enforcement partners, government agencies and private-sector organizations amid concerns about potential threats linked to Iran, which U.S. officials describe as the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism.

Officials say the threats could range from cyberattacks meant to overwhelm computer servers to phishing attempts aimed at gaining access to sensitive systems and personal data. Authorities also warn about the possible activation of “sleeper cells” operating around the world, including in the United States. Open-source intelligence reporting has suggested encrypted messages may be circulating that could be intended for covert operatives.

The warning also comes as domestic terrorism concerns remain. Authorities point to a recent attempted improvised explosive device attack in New York that investigators believe may have been inspired by ISIS, though that group and Iran remain ideological rivals.

Because of these risks, officials are urging the public to stay alert and report suspicious activity. Tips from residents and businesses can help prevent potential attacks. Missourians are also encouraged to be cautious with emails, texts and phone calls that may attempt to steal personal or financial information.

Anyone who sees an immediate threat should call 911. Suspicious activity can also be reported through the Missouri SafeNation mobile app, which allows users to submit anonymous tips and upload photos or video. The app is available through the Apple App Store and Google Play.

Authorities say suspicious activity could include people taking photos of critical infrastructure or security systems, asking detailed questions about security or daily operations, attempting to access restricted areas, or acquiring unusual materials that could be used to construct weapons or explosives. Other warning signs may include threats against facilities or acts of vandalism or sabotage.

Officials are also asking the public to report suspicious drone activity, such as drones flying erratically over people or vehicles, repeatedly hovering over one location, carrying unusual objects, or flying near critical infrastructure without a visible operator nearby.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Spring Pickleball League Launches in Kearney

Kearney Parks and Recreation is thrilled to announce the return of its Spring Pickleball League for 2026, providing players of all skill levels the opportunity to participate in this fast-growing sport. The league will run weeknights from 6 to 11 pm on courts 1-8 at the Kearney Pickleball Complex, located at 619 E 19th Street.

The schedule features a six-week league, culminating in a seventh week double elimination tournament, with competitive divisions playing three matches per night.

League divisions include options for true beginners, advanced beginners, social players, and advanced social competitors. Mixed teams are defined as either two female players or one male and one female, and the minimum player age is 18, except for social divisions which allow participants as young as 12.

Registration for the spring league is currently open, with regular registration available from March 2 to April 5, 2026. The league begins the week of April 13 and concludes June 15, with a regular registration fee of $50.

Additionally, a free beginner pickleball clinic will be held on Saturday, April 11, offering new adult players a two-hour session covering the basics and practice drills. Registration for the clinic is limited to the first 20 participants, so early sign-up is encouraged.

Kearney Parks and Rec invites players to join the league and experience the excitement, camaraderie, and friendly competition of pickleball this spring. Sign up now at KearneyParks.com and don't miss your chance to be part of the action.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Named Blue Shield Community

The City of Kearney has been recognized as a 2026 Missouri Blue Shield Community by the Missouri Department of Public Safety.

This designation recognizes communities that demonstrate a strong commitment to public safety, support for law enforcement, and partnerships between officers and the community they serve.

The City and 102.7FM thanks the Kearney Police Department and everyone who works each day to help keep our community safe.