Mobile Mammography Screening Coming to Kearney

As part of its ongoing commitment to community service, Platte-Clay Electric Cooperative (PCEC) will host a local mobile mammography screening at its Kearney headquarters at 1000 W. State Road 92 in Kearney on Thursday, June 18, from 9 am to 5 pm. Testing will be provided by Diagnostic Imaging Centers, P.A.

Appointments are encouraged, and residents can schedule by calling (913) 344-9989. When booking, callers should note that the appointment is for the mobile coach on June 18. Walk-ins will also be welcome, and organizers say those who do not schedule ahead of time are encouraged to stop by in case space is available.

Women ages 35 to 39 are eligible for a baseline screening mammogram, though they are encouraged to check with their insurance provider in advance regarding plan eligibility and coverage. Women age 40 and older do not need a physician’s order; however, for insurance coverage purposes, their most recent screening mammogram should have been completed at least 12 months before the current exam. Those scheduling earlier than 12 months should confirm coverage with their insurer.

Patients should bring a photo ID, insurance card, and the name of their primary care physician. On the day of the appointment, participants are asked not to wear deodorant, lotion, or perfume from the waist up, and to wear a two-piece outfit to avoid fully disrobing during the screening.

The event is intended to make preventive breast health services more accessible to local residents and provide a convenient screening option close to home.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Autism Center Earns Spot on United Way’s Impact 100 List

Sherwood Autism Center has been named one of United Way of Greater Kansas City’s 2026 Impact 100 organizations, a recognition that highlights the Kansas City nonprofit’s work serving individuals with autism and developmental disabilities across the region. The announcement places Sherwood among organizations selected for making significant contributions to community well-being.

The Impact 100 portfolio represents United Way of Greater Kansas City’s investment in nonprofits working in health, youth opportunity, financial security, and community resiliency. Sherwood Autism Center was recognized in the Community Resiliency category for its support of caregivers and people with autism, underscoring the organization’s role in helping families build stability and access needed services.

Founded in 1974, Sherwood Autism Center provides specialized education, adult day services, employment support, and community-based programming designed to help individuals throughout their lives. The organization says its individualized, whole-person approach is aimed at building independence, confidence, and connection for every person it serves.

United Way of Greater Kansas City announced this year’s Impact 100 organizations on May 18, spotlighting nonprofits tackling urgent regional challenges through collaborative, mission-driven work. Kia Walsh, president and CEO of Sherwood Autism Center, said the recognition reflects the commitment of staff and the strength of the families the center serves, adding that partnerships like this help expand access to support, opportunity, and belonging.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story

Charges Filed After Break-Ins at Smithville Lake Park Buildings

Clay County investigators say three buildings at Smithville Lake in Clay County Parks were broken into and rummaged through on the same day last month, with tools, keys to heavy equipment and other items reported stolen. Investigators said the break-ins also caused significant damage to the facilities.

After the burglaries, deputies increased patrols in the area. Two nights later, at about 1:15 a.m., a deputy spotted a vehicle with broken tail lamps driving near the scene of the earlier crimes. When the deputy attempted a traffic stop, investigators said the driver fled, leading deputies on a high-speed pursuit that ended on Mount Olivet Road near NE 132nd Street.

Deputies arrested the driver and searched the vehicle, where they said they found keys and a set of bolt cutters stolen from County Parks. Investigators also recovered what they described as burglary tools, including a pry bar, saw, slim jims used to access locked vehicles, pliers and a skull-shaped mask. Authorities said they also found additional evidence that could connect the suspect to crimes in other cities.

Aaron A. Quinn, 46, has been charged with resisting arrest by fleeing and possession of burglary tools. Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be filed. Officials said theft and damage to public property affect the entire community, and they praised the deputies and investigators who worked to stop the crime pattern quickly.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story

Missouri Highway Patrol Urges Safety this Memorial Day Weekend

As Memorial Day weekend approaches, the Missouri State Highway Patrol is encouraging residents and visitors to plan ahead and stay safe while enjoying travel and outdoor activities across the state.

With pleasant weather expected to draw more people onto Missouri’s roads and waterways, officials say preparation can help make holiday weekend plans more successful. Because of ongoing road construction statewide, the Patrol recommends travelers use the Missouri Department of Transportation’s Traveler Information Map before leaving home. The map offers up-to-date details on road closures, traffic delays, construction zones, and alternate routes, and is available both online and as a free mobile app.

The 2026 Memorial Day holiday counting period begins at 6 p.m. Friday, May 22, and continues through 11:59 p.m. Monday, May 25. During that time, every available trooper will be assigned to patrol Missouri’s highways and waterways, enforcing state laws and assisting motorists and boaters in need.

Troopers patrolling Missouri roadways will focus on hazardous moving violations, speeding, and impaired driving. The Patrol will also take part in Operation C.A.R.E., or Crash Awareness Reduction Effort, during the holiday weekend.

Last year’s Memorial Day weekend saw 868 vehicle crashes across Missouri, leaving 356 people injured and four dead. On the water, there were three boating crashes reported statewide, though none resulted in injuries or fatalities. Troopers also made 81 driving while intoxicated arrests and no boating while intoxicated arrests during the 2025 holiday period.

Memorial Day weekend is widely considered the unofficial start of boating season, and officials are reminding the public to wear seat belts in vehicles and life jackets near, on, or in the water. The Patrol also urges anyone planning to consume intoxicating substances to designate a sober driver, whether traveling by car or boat.

Anyone who witnesses criminal activity or experiences an emergency is encouraged to call the Patrol’s Emergency Report Line at (800) 525-5555 or *55 on a cellular phone. Those emergency numbers are available for both highway and water emergencies.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Waterfest Returns for its 43rd Year

Waterfest 2026 will return to downtown Excelsior Springs on Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27, bringing back one of the Kansas City area’s longest-running summer traditions for its 43rd year.

Organized by the Excelsior Springs Area Chamber of Commerce, the annual festival draws thousands of residents and visitors for two days of entertainment, family activities, contests, vendors, and community traditions. Waterfest is the city’s largest annual event and has been named Best Festival in the Community of Excellence Awards for the past two years.

This year’s festival will feature more than 90 vendor booths along Broadway offering arts, crafts, clothing, gifts, food, beverages, and novelty items. Festivalgoers can also expect live music on the Rite-Way Stage, the Waterfest Summer Jam concert, country artist Josh Collins, the Waterfest Parade, a beer garden, and a wide range of attractions including a custom car, hot rod and truck show, a motorcycle show, a quilt show at the Hall of Waters, a Kids Splash Zone, free trolley rides, free hot air balloon rides, and community favorites such as the Little Miss & Mister Waterfest contest and the Rotary water fight.

One event returning to the lineup this year is the ES Idol Singing Competition, an amateur vocal contest that had been popular in previous years. Auditions are scheduled for June 19 and 20 at Slightly Off Broadway Theatre, with finalists set to perform during Waterfest on June 27. Former contestant Samantha Barrett is helping organize the competition alongside Cindy Hewitt.

Festival organizers said Waterfest remains a community-wide effort supported by volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, and civic groups. “This festival is about celebrating the spirit of Excelsior Springs,” organizers said. “Waterfest brings together families, visitors, businesses, entertainers, nonprofits, and volunteers in a way that truly showcases our community.”

Organizers are currently seeking additional volunteers, sponsors, parade entries, and vendors ahead of the June festival. For schedules, applications, contest information, sponsorship opportunities, and festival updates, visit: ESWaterfest.com.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.