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.

Quarterback Club Golf Tournament Scheduled

The Kearney High School Quarterback Club is inviting the Bulldog community to hit the links for a good cause at its Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, May 2nd at the Excelsior Springs Golf Course.

The tournament is a fundraiser supporting the Kearney Bulldog Football program and brings together players, families, alumni, and fans for a day of golf and community spirit.

Teams of four can register for $500, and several sponsorship opportunities are available, including corporate, Bulldog, and hole sponsorships for local businesses and supporters.

All proceeds go toward providing resources and opportunities for Bulldog football student-athletes.

Registration and full event details are available at KearneyQuarterbackClub.com.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Bulldogs Claim District Title on Dramatic Buzzer-Beater

In a game that will be remembered for years in Kearney High School history, senior guard Brooke Paalhar drained a three-pointer at the final buzzer to lift the top-seeded Bulldogs to a 44–41 victory over the Lincoln College Prep Blue Tigers in the Class 5 District 8 Championship on Friday, March 6, 2026.

The Bulldogs' path to the trophy was anything but easy. Early in the contest, Lincoln College Prep’s defensive pressure frustrated Kearney, leading to a 10-point deficit for the home team. However, the Bulldogs chipped away throughout the second half. Senior Maggie Lakin provided a crucial spark in the paint, while senior Morgan Pennington drained an unexpected and dramatic 3-point shot right before halftime. Senior Kennedi Casey helped anchor a defense that held the Blue Tigers to just 13 points in the final two quarters.

With the game tied at 41-41 in the closing seconds, Kearney executed a final play from Casey to Lakin who found Paalhar at the arc. The senior, who had surpassed the 1,000-career-point milestone just weeks earlier, launched a deep three that found nothing but net as the buzzer sounded.

This victory secures Kearney’s first district championship in six years and brings their season record to 19–10.

The Bulldogs are set to face the Grandview Bulldogs (21–5) in the MSHSAA Class 5 State Quarterfinals on Friday, March 13.  The game is scheduled for a 6 pm tip-off at Belton High School, 801 W. North Ave. in Belton. This high-stakes "Battle of the Bulldogs" will determine who advances to the State Semifinals at the MSHSAA Championships in Columbia.

Kearney and Grandview are very familiar with each other, having already played twice during the 2025–26 regular season. The series is currently split 1–1. Kearney won a close defensive battle, 49–45, at home on January 30, and Grandview evened the score with a decisive 56–38 victory on their home court on February 24.

KPGZ is set to broadcast the game live, beginning with pregame at 5:30 pm on 102.7FM, KearneyCountry.com and the KPGZ mobile app.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.