Kansas Governor Kelly visited Grinnell today to see firsthand the damage of the tornado that directly hit the town of Grinnell, KS on Sunday, May 18th.

The Hoxie City Council convened for its regular monthly meeting on April 14, 2025, covering a wide range of community initiatives, upcoming events, and infrastructure updates. Mayor Dawn Elliott led the session with Commissioners Jim Erwin and Kevin Schoendaler in attendance.

The Oberlin USD 294 Board of Education held its regular meeting on March 10, 2025, with significant discussions and decisions centered on school funding, staffing, and transportation upgrades.

In his latest weekly newsletter, Representative Tracey Mann shared a comprehensive look at the priorities guiding his work in Washington as the U.S. House reconvenes for a week of legislative activity.

In Rep. Tracey Mann’s latest "Kansas Ag Hero of the Month" feature, the spotlight shines on Andrea DeJesus, a fourth-generation farmer from Manhattan, Kansas, who has turned a reluctant return to her agricultural roots into a flourishing agritourism enterprise that’s inspiring communities across the state.

The community of Grinnell is facing a long road to recovery after the recent tornado. Homes were destroyed. Families are displaced. And now, the rebuilding begins. The Gove County Community Foundation, in partnership with GNWKCF and Grinnell Promoting Pride & Progress (GP3), has created the “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” Fund — a special relief effort designed to support both immediate cleanup efforts and long-term recovery for those affected.

As Memorial Day approaches, Congressman Tracey Mann is back in Washington and focused on a range of initiatives that honor veterans, strengthen Kansas agriculture, support American manufacturing, and protect rural communities.

Obituary for Anita (Kastens) Focke, 94

Norton County Commissioners Recap 4/14, Address Mental Health, Road and Bridge Leadership, and Insurance Coverage

Memorial service for Paul E. Lutters, 49

Obituary for Lindle K. Harold

In the latest edition of his Kansas Common Sense newsletter, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran shared a wide-ranging update on key legislative efforts, community outreach, and support for Kansans impacted by recent severe weather.

The Kansas Supreme Court will recognize a distinguished figure in family law with one of its highest honors. Linda Elrod, Richard S. Righter Distinguished Professor of Law Emerita at Washburn University School of Law, will receive the Justice Award during a special session at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 20, in the Supreme Court courtroom at the Kansas Judicial Center.

Governor Laura Kelly announced Monday that Olivia Taylor-Puckett has joined the Kelly administration to serve as communications director.

The Sheridan County Community Foundation was pleased to present five scholarship awards to area students during the Saturday, May 17, 2025, Commencement Ceremony at Hoxie High School.

Sheriff Mesch gave NWKS Radio a tour of the devastation of Grinnell's Tornado on May 18.

After a fast-moving tornado tore through Grinnell on Sunday night, the town of just over 250 homes is rallying to recover. With dozens of homes damaged or destroyed and widespread utility outages, local officials and utility crews are working tirelessly to restore order.

Lane closures on I-70 near Grinnell in Gove County are expected to remain in place during the week of May 19, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation. KDOT has closed the passing lanes on both eastbound and westbound I-70 between mile markers 82 and 87. The closures are necessary for utility crews to complete repairs on downed powerlines from severe weather on Sunday evening. Motorists are advised to use caution and stay alert for work crews in the area. Minor

However, at approximately 6:50 PM CST, a tornado touched down in Grinnell, Kansas. The National Weather Service in Goodland issued the tornado warning at 6:38 PM, noting that a storm capable of producing a tornado was located 7 miles south of Grinnell, moving northeast at 30 mph. The warning remained in effect until 7:15 PM CDT. The storm brought with it the threat of a tornado and quarter-size hail, and radar indicated strong rotation.

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced Friday nine appointments to the following state boards, committee, and council.