Travel Safely During July 4th Holiday Weekend

As Missourians prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is urging residents and visitors to make safety a top priority—whether they're hitting the road, heading to the water, or hosting backyard gatherings.

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Patrol, is reminding everyone to plan responsibly and follow all traffic and boating laws during the upcoming holiday weekend.

“Whether you’re boating on one of Missouri’s lakes or enjoying a barbecue with friends and family, your smartest choice is to put safety first,” said Turner.

The 2025 July Fourth holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Thursday, July 3, and continues through 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 6. During that time, all available troopers will be on patrol across Missouri’s highways and waterways to enforce the law and assist those in need.

Last year’s holiday was marred by tragedy, with 14 people killed and 560 injured in 1,366 traffic crashes across the state. Troopers also made 149 arrests for driving while intoxicated. On the water, there were 10 boating crashes, resulting in seven injuries but no fatalities or drownings. Twelve arrests were made for boating while intoxicated.

To help reduce these numbers, the Patrol will once again participate in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) and Operation Dry Water, the latter focusing specifically on stopping impaired vessel operators.

Boaters are reminded to stay alert, operate responsibly, and never drive a boat under the influence of alcohol. It is also illegal to set off fireworks from a boat—those should remain safely on shore. The Patrol stresses the importance of wearing life jackets and encourages everyone on the water to “Wear It!”

Motorists are also asked to buckle up, obey speed limits, and never drive distracted or impaired. Those needing help or who witness criminal activity while traveling can contact the Highway Patrol by calling 1-800-525-5555 or *55 from a cell phone.

Travelers can also get up-to-date road conditions by visiting the MoDOT Traveler Information Map, using the MoDOT app, or calling 1-888-275-6636.

“Independence Day should be a celebration,” said Turner. “Let’s make sure it’s a safe one for everyone.”

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Fireworks Celebration Set for July 3rd Featuring Platinum Express

The skies over Kearney will light up on Thursday, July 3, during the city’s annual Fireworks Celebration at Jesse James Park, and the community is invited to a full evening of free entertainment, including a live concert by Platinum Express, one of the Midwest’s most celebrated supergroups.

The event is completely free—no ticket required—and features fun for all ages. Children can enjoy inflatable air toys from 5 to 8:30 pm, and free cotton candy will be served at the amphitheater. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets, come early, and enjoy a picnic before the show begins.

At 7:30 pm, Platinum Express takes the stage. Known for their high-energy blend of Motown, Soul, Funk, and Classic Rock, the group features four lead vocalists and the Full Steam Horns. The band’s roster includes Grammy Award winners and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees who have shared the stage or studio with music legends such as Aretha Franklin, The Righteous Brothers, and the Temptations. Platinum Express has been named KC’s #1 band by KC Entertainment Weekly and consistently draws sold-out crowds across the region.

The celebration culminates in a dazzling fireworks display at 9:30 pm. Free parking and admission are offered, but visitors are encouraged to arrive and have vehicles parked before 9 pm. Concessions will be available for purchase.

For a night of music, fun, and patriotic celebration, the Kearney Fireworks Celebration promises a "blast" for the whole family.

For more information, follow the City of Kearney on social media.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Route 92 Closure Near Kearney Begins July 7

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced a full closure of Missouri Route 92 in both directions near Kearney for slide repair operations beginning Monday, July 7.

The closure will affect the stretch of Route 92 between Cameron Road and Route RA/Old Quarry Road. Work is scheduled to begin at 5 a.m. on July 7 and continue through 8 p.m. on Friday, July 25, weather permitting.

Drivers in the area should plan ahead and find alternate routes during the three-week closure. MoDOT reminds motorists to exercise caution, reduce speed, and stay alert in and around work zones. Even short-term or temporary repairs can create hazardous driving conditions.

Details and updates on the project can be found on the MoDOT website under the Missouri Route 92 Slide Repair Operations in Clay County page. For broader information on road conditions, ongoing projects, and traffic alerts, visit www.modot.org/kansascity, or follow MoDOT Kansas City on social media platforms including X (@MoDOT_KC) and Facebook.

Motorists can also call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or sign up online for email updates related to work zones and closures in the Kansas City region.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Board of Education Welcomes New Member

Kearney School District's Board of Education welcomed its newest member, Jake Klingensmith, with a swearing-in ceremony during a special session this morning at the central office.

Klingensmith is filling the board position vacated by Len Broughton, who voluntarily resigned from the post this year after being relocated due to his job. Klingensmith will complete the remainder of the term of Broughton's board position until the April 6, 2026, election. He will have the option to seek election for a full term.

Kearney School District announced the board vacancy at the April 16, 2025, board meeting. Applications were received from several community members interested in filling the vacant position. The board interviewed three candidates at a Special Board Meeting session on April 22. A recommendation to appoint Klingensmith was approved at the board's June 18 business meeting.

KPGZ News – Ray Weikal contributed to this story.

Clay County Announces Safety Excellence Awards

The Clay County Public Health Center has announced the winners of its annual Food Safety Excellence and Pool Safety Excellence Awards, recognizing local establishments that went above and beyond to protect public health in 2024.

“These recipients demonstrated an unwavering commitment to health and safety,” said Robert Gilliland, Section Chief of Environmental Health. “They consistently paid attention to the details and took their responsibility seriously. We’re proud to celebrate their efforts.”

Food Safety Excellence Awards

A total of 93 food establishments—representing the top 12% of those inspected—earned the 2024 Food Safety Excellence Award. These businesses met strict criteria, including a full year of operation with no repeat violations, no follow-up inspections, and no confirmed cases of foodborne illness.

Among them, 23 were honored with “Gold Standard” status for earning the award three or more years in a row.

Clay County’s food inspection program covers a wide range of establishments beyond traditional restaurants, including food trucks, school cafeterias, hospitals, nursing homes, bars, caterers, churches, convenience stores, and event vendors. In 2024, CCPHC’s 11-member environmental health team conducted 1,490 routine inspections, 372 temporary event inspections, and followed up on 155 food-related complaints.

Local winners in Kearney included:

• Club At MariMack

• Coco Street Fudge

• Fair Share Farm*

• Hawthorne Elementary*

• Kaji Sushi & Grill

• Kearney Early Education Center*

• Kearney Middle School*

• Kearney Nutrition

(*denotes “Gold Standard” recipient)

Pool Safety Excellence Awards

Twenty-six recreational water facilities—22% of all those regulated in Clay County—received the 2024 Pool Safety Excellence Award. Seven facilities achieved “Gold Standard” status, placing them in the top 6% for consistently safe and clean operations.

Award-winning pools met tough criteria such as maintaining proper certifications, avoiding repeat or serious violations, and having no confirmed waterborne illness outbreaks. In total, the environmental health team conducted 474 inspections of recreational water facilities including neighborhood pools, civic centers, spas, and spraygrounds.

For a full list of award recipients or more about Clay County Public Health’s safety programs, visit www.clayhealth.com.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts Contributed to this story.